The city of Lucknow, known for its Nawabi heritage, has a rich history that extends to its cuisine. The culinary delights of Lucknow, often referred to as Awadhi cuisine, derive from the Mughal cooking techniques. It is known for its sophistication and the depth of its flavors. Royal chefs and cooks called 'Rakabdars' played a significant role in enriching the gastronomy with innovations such as 'Dum' style of cooking, which involves slow cooking over a low flame. While Lucknow is famous for its non-vegetarian fare, including dishes made from chicken and mutton, it also offers a splendid array of vegetarian options that carry the same royal legacy in taste and presentation.