If you love food, particularly Biryani, visiting Lucknow is like embarking on a pilgrimage to the heart of Awadhi cuisine. Known for its rich Mughlai heritage and aromatic flavors, the biryani in Lucknow is a delight for the senses. It blends tender meat, fragrant rice, and exquisite spices that linger in your memory long after the meal.

My search for the best biryani in the city took me to three of its most renowned spots—Naushijaan Chicken Biryani in Hazratganj, Idris Awadi Biryani in Chowk, and Lalla’s Lucknowi Biryani. Each offered a distinct take on the beloved dish, but ultimately, I had to choose my favorite.

The Search for the Ultimate Biryani: A Flavorful Adventure

Lucknow has many restaurants and roadside stalls where biryani enthusiasts flock to taste this delectable dish. The quest for the best biryani often starts with a list of contenders, some famous for their historical roots and others beloved by locals for their secret recipes. Among these names, the well-known Idris Awadi Biryani in the Chowk, Naushijaan Chicken Biryani in Hazratganj, and Dastarkhwan have long been staples for biryani lovers. However, food lovers and experts highly recommend Lalla Biryani for those seeking something less commercial and more distinct.

Naushijaan Chicken Biryani, Hazratganj

My journey began at Naushijaan, a well-regarded eatery known for its Mughlai delights. Their Awadhi biryani was fragrant, delicately spiced, and perfectly balanced in flavor. The meat was tender, the rice fluffy, and every bite a harmonious blend of aroma and taste.

I also ordered different kebabs to try, but I did not care too much for them. While it set a high standard, I knew there were more places to explore before making my final judgment.

Idris Awadi Biryani, Chowk

Next, I ventured into the old lanes of Chowk to try the legendary Idris Biryani. This no-frills, flavor-packed institution has served Lucknow’s food lovers for decades.

The biryani was rich and robust in flavor, carrying an unmistakable rustic charm. Cooked in a large pot over a wood fire, the smoky essence infused into the rice and mutton gave it its character.

While it was undoubtedly an outstanding experience, there was still one more contender to go.

Lalla’s Lucknowi Biryani, Chowk

Finally, I arrived at Lalla’s, a lesser-known gem that has quietly built a loyal following. One bite in, and I knew I had found my winner. Lalla’s biryani was a masterclass in balance—it had the right amount of spice, the perfect texture of rice, and meat so tender it melted in my mouth. The nuanced layering of flavors and the subtle saffron notes made it stand out above the rest.

After a tasty expedition across the city, one place stood out for me: Lalla Biryani, the restaurant where the search for the perfect biryani finally came to a victorious end.

While all three biryanis had unique appeal, my ranking was clear. Naushijaan came in third for its refined but slightly understated flavors. Idris secured second place with its robust, street-style biryani, which left a lasting impression. However, Lalla won the crown, as its biryani perfectly encapsulated the essence of Lucknow in every bite.

The search for the best biryani in Lucknow is never over, but Lalla’s remains my top pick. If you ever find yourself in the city, do yourself a favor and embark on your biryani journey—you might discover your favorite.

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Author and photo credit: Cristy