Living in Lucknow amidst the high-end eateries and economical food hubs, that one place which always tends to pull us in, is the spot with desi dhaba feels, kyuki dil hai Hindustani after all! Sure we’d like a platter of sushi or a serving of fancy-schmancy food but at the end of the day, all we want is comfort in whatever we nosh down.
Along the same lines, we’ve chalked out 5 dhabas in Lucknow which have been serving us with the real pind da swad here in the city.
A rage amidst college students, Break Point used to be a typical dhaba and now because of its sucess with the foodies, it has slowly transitioned into a restaurant setup. Although wrapped in a new get-up, the essence of the food is still dhabalicious and Break Point never disappoints. Their Butter Chicken, Murgh Kalimirch, Paneer Butter Masala and Kheer are some of the all-time favourites of Lucknowites and they have remained unshaken, even after the competition has gotten tougher with others around.
Location: Anaura Chowki, Chinhat, Faizabad Road, Indira Nagar, Lucknow
Cost: ₹400 for two people (approx.)
Timings: 12noon – 11pm
The ‘mother’ of all dhabas, Fauji Dhaba introduced us to the real taste of Punjab way before than anyone else in the city. Situated on the outskirts of the city, this place is packed even at 3 in the morning! Best suited for midnight cravings or a quick dinner sesh after a long drive with bae, nothing beats the essence of this hub! Order the Handi Chicken with Jeera Rice and the explosion of flavours will take you back home, while here. The Kadhai Paneer is a best-seller amidst the vegetarian crowd and even though we’re hardcore meat hoggers, their veg food also makes us drool! Quick service and open air seating, Fauji Dhaba is for those late nights when you feel like grabbing some fresh air and mouth-watering Indian food.
Location: Sitapur Rd, Near Janaki Prasad Petrol Pump, Bargadi, Bakshi Ka Talab, Navi Kot Nandana.
Cost: ₹350 for two people (approx.)
Timings: 24x7
Decked in a robust attire, this outlet is seated at the busy Patrakarpuram Market with exposed brick walls featuring humorous posters and kinky murals. Come over for a wholesome meal with your family and we’re sure even your amma would approve of the food they serve here. Their grub presentations are so craftily curated (imagine kadhais on charpayis and plates on stacks of wooden planks) that you’d want to feed your camera first! When here and confused about what to order, go straight for the Rajputana Laal Maas, Mutton Dum Biryani, Paneer Malai Tikka and Raan Sikandari (order 24 hours before) and you’ll thank us later. Homely, hearty and loud, KDD is all about embracing the shudh desi epicurean affair so come over and forget the spoons and forks- go for the traditional finger lickin’ way!
Location: 1/97, Viram Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow
Cost: ₹900 for two people (approx.)
A fusion of our two favourite things- food and Bollywood, The Urban Dhaba is a confluence of flavours, philmy aesthetics and comfort. This vibrantly dolled-up eatery has touched upon the concepts of a contemporary dhaba and we’re all heart-eyed for it! All the items here are fairly priced and the quality along with the quantity, is an absolute people pleaser. If you’re hungry and wondering what to order then opt for the Paneer Lababdar, any of the 5 biryanis, Jangali Murg or the Rahra Mutton!
But if you think that these won’t really help to curb your Herculean appetite, then you should definitely go for the Bahubali Thaali 2! Available in both veg and non-veg options, this thaali isn’t for the weak but is a must-try! If you wolf down everything and complete the challenge, you will also be featured on their wall of fame.
Location: 3/187 Vivek Khand, Gomti NagarAbove Spencer's
Cost: ₹850 for two people (approx.)
Timings: 11am – 11pm
A modest representation of a typical dhaba, this eatery is one of the nominally priced dhabas in Lucknow with delish food and a generous quantity. Head here for dinner in your pajamas or if you’re craving for masaledar mutton dishes! They serve a mean Mutton Rogan Josh and of course, by the laws of food-land, pair this with a Garlic Naan or Tandoori Rotis and get set to experience an intense foodgasm right here.
Location: Near Anandi Water Park, Faizabad Road, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow
Cost: ₹200 for two people (approx.)
Timings: 11am – 12midnight
So kaisi jeebh laplapayee, eh?
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