UNESCO enshrines Lucknow on world’s culinary map

From its famous street foods to its royal kitchen traditions, Lucknow’s cuisine has brought together history, innovation and community spirit for centuries. Now the city has earned a place on the official global culinary map after UNESCO named it a Creative City of Gastronomy.

The designation was announced by UNESCO on 31 October, World Cities Day, as part of 58 additions this year to its Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Lucknow becomes the second Indian city to be added to UCCN’s gastronomy category, after Hyderabad was named in 2019.

Announcing the designation, UNESCO paid tribute to Lucknow’s historic Awadhi cuisine as well as its flair for culinary creativity. The city is renowned for many distinct dishes, including its succulent kebabs and distinctive take on biryani. 

With this recognition, Lucknow becomes one of 408 cities across more than 100 countries that have been acknowledged for their contributions to creative industries such as crafts and folk art, design, film, gastronomy, literature, media arts, and music. This year, architecture has been introduced as a new creative field within the network.

“Lucknow’s recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy is a testament to its deep-rooted culinary traditions and vibrant food ecosystem. This designation honors the city’s rich cultural legacy while opening new avenues for international collaboration,” said Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO Regional Office for South Asia.

The UCCN aims to strengthen international cooperation among cities that recognize culture and creativity as drivers of sustainable urban development. Launched in 2004, it supports cities that invest in cultural industries, empower creative professionals, and engage communities to promote inclusion, jobs and economic vitality. 

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