Lucknow earns UNESCO Creative City tag for its rich cuisine
What's the story
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. The announcement was made on World Cities Day. This prestigious title is given to cities that promote creativity as a driver of sustainable urban development and recognize their commitment to championing culture and creativity.
Gastronomy network
Lucknow joins 70 other global gastronomy cities
Lucknow is now part of a select group of 70 global gastronomy hubs, including Hyderabad (India), Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah (Saudi Arabia), Kelowna (Canada), Quanzhou (China), and Zaragoza (Spain). The recognition celebrates the city's rich culinary heritage, from royal kitchens to street food culture. It also highlights Lucknow's living heritage that blends artistry, hospitality, and cultural harmony.
Nomination efforts
Dossier detailed city's culinary evolution
The nomination process was led by the Uttar Pradesh Directorate of Tourism, which submitted a dossier to the Ministry of Culture on January 31, 2025. The dossier detailed Lucknow's culinary evolution and highlighted iconic dishes such as galouti kebab, Awadhi biryani, and tokri chaat. It presented food as a medium of dialogue, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Tourism impact
UNESCO recognition to boost culinary tourism in Lucknow
The UNESCO recognition is expected to open new avenues for international collaboration and culinary tourism in Lucknow. Principal Secretary (Tourism and Culture) Amrit Abhijat said the honor would expand Lucknow's international appeal and promote sustainable tourism. In 2024, Lucknow recorded 8.27 million tourists, with over seven million visitors in the first half of 2025 alone.