Tunday Kababi, often called Tunday Kabab or Tunde ke Kebab, stands as one of Lucknow’s most iconic culinary landmarks. Renowned for its signature Galouti Kebabs, this historic eatery has been delighting food lovers with authentic Awadhi flavors for over a century. For anyone visiting Lucknow or exploring the rich heritage of Nawabi cuisine, a visit to Tunday Kababi is an absolute must.
A Royal Legacy Spanning Over a Century
The story of Tunday Kababi traces back to the opulent Nawabi era of Lucknow. Founded in 1905 by Haji Murad Ali in the bustling Chowk area, the restaurant earned its name from its founder’s nickname “Tunday,” meaning “one-handed,” following an unfortunate accident.
Haji Murad Ali created a revolutionary recipe for ultra-tender kebabs using a secret blend of over 160 spices. Legend has it that he developed this special preparation to win a royal challenge: crafting kebabs soft enough for a toothless Nawab who still craved the royal delicacy. The family has carefully guarded this recipe across generations, preserving the authentic taste that made Tunday Kababi a cultural institution of Lucknow’s street food and royal culinary tradition.
The Star Dish: Galouti Kebabs
At the heart of Tunday Kababi’s fame lies the Galouti Kebab — finely minced mutton or buffalo meat mixed with aromatic spices and cooked on a large tawa until perfectly tender. These kebabs are so soft they literally melt in the mouth, living up to their name “Galouti,” which means “extremely soft.”
They are traditionally served with fresh parathas, sliced onions, lemon wedges, and fragrant mint chutney. Beyond the legendary Galouti, the menu features other Lucknowi favorites such as keema fry, rich biryanis, and an array of additional kebabs. The combination of textures and flavors captures the essence of Awadhi cooking at its finest.
Multiple Outlets Across Lucknow
While the original outlet near Akbari Gate in Chowk is cherished by locals for its classic authenticity, Tunday Kababi has expanded to several convenient locations:
- Aminabad Branch: One of the most popular spots, located at 168/6, Old Nazirabad Road, Mohan Market, Khayali Ganj.
- Aliganj: Tunday Towers on Kapoorthala Road, near Novelty Cinema.
- Additional branches at Hardoi Road, Hussainabad, Lulu Mall, and more.
The restaurant has also taken its flavors beyond Lucknow with outlets in Delhi and Dubai. For the most authentic experience, visitors often prefer the older, traditional branches.
What Visitors Say
Tunday Kababi consistently receives strong ratings (typically 4.2–4.4 across platforms) for its signature kebabs. While some newer outlets may vary slightly in quality and ambiance, the core taste remains a crowd favorite. The places are usually bustling and affordable, offering a genuine taste of Lucknow’s vibrant food culture. Most outlets open around midday and serve until late evening. Delivery is also available through popular apps like Swiggy and Zomato within Lucknow.
Whether you are a kebab connoisseur or simply exploring the city’s gastronomic delights, Tunday Kababi delivers an unforgettable experience. The original Chowk or Aminabad locations are especially recommended for those seeking the true, time-honored flavor that has made this establishment a legend.
If you find yourself in Lucknow, make sure to include Tunday Kababi in your itinerary — it is more than just a meal; it is a journey into the heart of Awadhi culinary heritage.
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