What is Awadhi Cuisine?
At the heart of Lucknow’s celebrated food culture lies Awadhi cuisine, a regal culinary tradition known for its subtle flavours, rich textures, and masterful preparation methods. The Nawabs of Awadh developed a cuisine that was both luxurious and nuanced, focusing on taste, aroma, and presentation. Signature cooking techniques include dum pukht, a method of slow cooking where dishes are sealed and simmered over low heat to enhance flavours. Charcoal grilling and marination are also essential practices, giving kebabs and meats their distinctive taste and tenderness. Awadhi dishes often use saffron, kewra water, rose essence, yoghurt, ghee, nuts, and a carefully balanced blend of aromatic spices. The result is food that is rich yet delicate, full of depth without being overwhelmingly spicy — a true symphony of taste.
Galouti Kebab
Arguably the crown jewel of Lucknow’s kebab offerings, the Galouti Kebab was created for a toothless Nawab who craved meat. Made with finely minced lamb and an intricate blend of over 100 aromatic spices, these kebabs are pan-seared to perfection and known for their silky, melt-in-the-mouth texture.Boti Kebab
Boti Kebabs feature chunks of marinated meat grilled on skewers over charcoal, resulting in juicy bites infused with a smoky flavour. Served with mint chutney, they are a must-try for any meat lover.
Shami Kebab
A favourite across households and restaurants, the Shami Kebab is a delicate combination of minced meat and lentils, flavoured with herbs and lightly fried. Its crisp exterior and soft centre make it a popular snack and starter.Nihari
Traditionally served as a breakfast dish, Nihari is a slow-cooked stew of beef or mutton, simmered overnight with marrow bones and a variety of spices. It’s hearty, flavourful, and best enjoyed with soft kulchas or naan.
Murgh Korma
A rich and aromatic chicken curry, Murgh Korma, showcases the elegance of Awadhi cooking. Cooked with saffron, cream, nuts, and mild spices, it pairs beautifully with both rice and different types of bread.Lucknowi Biryani
Unlike its Hyderabadi counterpart, Lucknowi Biryani is more delicate and aromatic, layered with marinated meat and long-grained basmati rice, then slow-cooked in the dum style, it’s infused with subtle spices and fragrant with saffron and rose water.
Experience Awadhi Cuisine at Zaika – Gemini Continental
Zaika, a culinary gem at Hotel Gemini Continental in the heart of Hazratganj, offers an authentic Awadhi dining experience in a refined setting. This in-house restaurant is known for bringing the legacy of Lucknow’s royal kitchens to your table. Zaika delivers the best non-veg food in Lucknow, embodying the rich history and spirit of Awadhi cuisine. Some highlights of the dishes served:
Shorbas: Start your meal with traditional soups like Yakhni, Murgh, Tomato, or Veg Shorba, inspired by royal Mughal broths.
Kebabs: Relish grilled perfection with an assortment of Galouti, Boti, Shami, and Seekh Kebabs — each bursting with classic Awadhi flavours.
Curries & Biryani: Savour slow-cooked dishes like Murgh Korma, Nihari, and the fragrant Lucknowi Biryani, all made using time-tested techniques and authentic ingredients.
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Why Stay at Gemini Continental During Your Food Trail?
Located in the bustling area of Hazratganj, Gemini Continental places you right at the centre of Lucknow’s food scene. From here, you’re just a short stroll away from iconic eateries, street food stalls, and traditional sweet shops. The hotel offers luxurious and comfortable accommodations, as well as various dining options, making it the perfect base for both leisure and culinary exploration. Ideal for tourists, business travellers, and food enthusiasts, it ensures you enjoy both flavour and comfort in one unforgettable journey.