Lucknow has been serving up delectable Awadhi cuisine since opening in 2015.
This restaurant has consistently provided an unparalleled dining experience, from delicious burra kebabs to delectable tandoori treats and fragrant biryani.
Lucknow's Indian chefs have become acclaimed for their uncompromising commitment to authenticity, drawing back diners who return time and again has helped build their reputation.
Food
Their Bundt Gosht, a beloved mutton curry, undergoes a slow-cooking process, immersing tender mutton pieces in a lavish gravy infused with yogurt, onions, and an assortment of aromatic spices.
Not only does it emit a mouthwatering fragrance, but the mutton itself is incredibly tender, resulting in delightful mouthfuls of this delectable curry.
Typically, mutton can possess a potent scent that may deter some, but this particular meat dish skillfully tames those concerns, enveloping your senses in an alluring and pleasant aroma. It's a dish that's sure to satisfy every palate.
Moving on to their Chicken Tangri, a tempting appetizer composed of drumsticks marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon, and garam masala, resulting in succulent bites. These drumsticks are then grilled over charcoal, imparting a subtle charred and smoky flavour.
While we appreciate the tenderness of the pieces, a touch more intensity from the marinade could elevate the Tangri drumsticks to a higher level.
The Mutton Burra, featuring minced mutton bites marinated in cottage cheese, raw papaya, malt vinegar, and hung curd, had high expectations due to the mincing process. However, the bites turned out somewhat chewy and less satisfying. A more meticulous approach to cooking the mutton would have allowed the flavours to shine at their fullest potential.
Their Paneer Butter Masala, may even outshine the previously mentioned meat dishes. From start to finish, this dish shines, with its rich gravy composed of whipped cream, cashew nuts, and garam masala, creating a lip-smacking rendition of this traditional favourite.
Another standout is the Parda Biryani, skillfully enveloped in a dough casing to preserve its enticing aroma and seal in the plethora of spices.
The chicken in this dish is marinated in yogurt, ginger, garlic, chili paste, lemon juice, and biryani masala before being expertly cooked and layered with fragrant rice.
While the exterior of the rice is perfectly cooked, the interior retains a slight firmness, adding to its aromatic appeal. You may find yourself indulging in the biryani to the exclusion of all else – a decision you won't regret.
Unfortunately, the Butter Naan didn't quite meet our expectations. Despite its genuine buttery aroma and flavour, the texture was a tad too firm, suggesting it might benefit from proper heating or being served fresh. We recommend pairing the curries with rice instead of the Butter Naan as a more satisfying side dish.
At Lucknow, prices range from Tk900 to Tk2,800, exclusive of service charges or VAT.
Ambience
Situated in the vibrant neighbourhood of Banani, Lucknow boasts an interior design characterized by a harmonious blend of cream and white hues, creating an ambience that exudes a sense of sophistication and elegance. The restaurant's dark, regal blue chairs offer a striking contrast, contributing to an atmosphere that is simultaneously solemn and inviting.
The decor at Lucknow is tastefully understated, with the walls adorned with large paintings featuring a bold palette of black, orange, and red. These artistic accents inject a touch of drama and creativity into the restaurant's aesthetic, serving as focal points that spark intrigue and conversation.
Challenges
One of the challenges that Lucknow encountered was the quest for sourcing the precise spices and ingredients necessary to authentically capture the flavors of Lucknow.
Fortunately, the restaurant has earned the approval and appreciation of many guests hailing from Lucknow itself, a testament to their commitment to delivering an authentic culinary experience.
However, keeping the prices down has been quite challenging, according to the managing director of Lucknow, Zeenat Chowdhury.
She added saying: “We haven't raised our prices in the last five years. Our initial intention was to implement price increases in 2020, but with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, we decided it would be inappropriate even after we resumed operations following the lockdown. Regrettably, the costs of sourcing ingredients and groceries have risen to such an extent that we recently found ourselves compelled to adjust our prices. Even with this adjustment, it remains a difficult decision for us.”
Verdict
While the ambience, the food and the pricing all seem geared towards special occasions, it's a worthwhile experience to consider. This is primarily due to our top recommendations: the Parda Biryani, Paneer Butter Masala, and the exceptional gravied curries they offer.
Although the prices may appear on the higher side, they can be justified considering the current economic climate and the prime location of the restaurant.
However, there is room for improvement in Lucknow's service. Customers may experience extended wait times, so it's advisable to plan your visit when you have sufficient time at your disposal, at least until they address this aspect.
