Our desi appetites are a glorious paradox. They want the roadside sizzle, the spice, the full Bollywood of flavour, yet they also demand clean plates and a polished setting. It’s a tug-of-war our taste buds stage daily, and the craving rarely rests. Which is precisely why The Street Republic at Novotel Lucknow strides in like a hero’s entry shot. A breezy escape the moment you walk in.
When a restaurant feels like a mini getaway
The moment we stepped in, the place gave us that instant hill-station illusion… breezy air, and a ribbon of bright pennant flags fluttering overhead as if someone pressed the holiday button. Just beside the dining area stretches a long, gleaming pool framing a rather handsome city skyline. Add a plush bar draped in light sepia and dotted with greenery, and the whole space lifts your mood before you’ve even glanced at the menu.
And if cricket runs in your veins, consider this your second home. Every match feels better with friends, a table full of snacks, and a giant screen doing justice to the drama.
Global flavours, desi at heart
Once you are done floating around Novotel’s dreamy poolside or striking a pose at the indoor bar, it’s time to let the food steal the spotlight. The menu reads like a joyous world tour. Start with their Korean Fried Chicken tossed in Gochujang Sauce (₹598), wander into the wonderfully unique Rogan Josh Gully Spaghetti (₹598), nibble through Chicken Quesadillas (₹598) packed with molten cheese and seasoned meat, and don’t skip the Nawabi Soya Malai Chaap (₹498) swaddled in rich, aromatic spices.
With everyone chasing cleaner, healthier plates, The Street Republic keeps things wholesome without losing the fun. Their desi-meets-global spread is a proper treat. Try the Paneer 65 (₹498) or the Chilli Coriander Chicken Dim Sum (₹598), soft little parcels filled with juicy chicken, fresh coriander and a whisper of heat.
And because no good meal is complete without something spirited, The Street Republic stirs up an excellent line-up of cocktails and mocktails. Sky Illusion and Nawabi Sunset shine brightest, the perfect companions for a night that turns into another round before you realise.
Knock Knock
Start plotting your visit if you’re in the mood for desi street food with a cleaner, clever twist. Any day works, but weekends turn into a little street-side carnival with live music drifting through the place. Round up your hungry crew, follow the aromas, and who knows… we might just bump into you there. Follow Novotel on Instagram for more updates.
Where: Novotel, Viraj Khand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow
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