Dastarkhwan Tulsi Theatre — Restaurant in Uttar Pradesh

Dastarkhwan, Lucknow – Authentic Lucknawi Flavors with Quick Service

On our one-day visit to Lucknow, we were determined to try some authentic Lucknawi cuisine despite our tight schedule. After hearing great reviews about Dastarkhwan, we decided to have lunch there, hoping it would live up to the hype — and it did not disappoint!

When we arrived, there was about a 10-minute wait for a table, which was reasonable considering the restaurant’s popularity. Once seated, a very jolly and friendly waiter took our order, setting the tone for a positive dining experience. We ordered a selection of Lucknawi specialties: Galawat Kebab, Boti Kebab, Shami Kebab, and two large Chicken Biryani.

To our surprise, the food arrived within minutes, which initially made us wonder if it had been pre-prepared. However, everything tasted incredibly fresh and well-made. The Galawat Kebab was soft, flavorful, and melted in the mouth — exactly how it should be. The Shami Kebab was decent, though slightly below expectations in terms of seasoning and texture. The standout dish was the Boti Kebab, which surprisingly came with a rich and flavorful gravy. It was finger-licking good and impressed us from the very first bite.

The Chicken Biryani was slightly underwhelming in quantity — two large portions were enough for four people, but the rice and chicken itself were just average. However, the Boti Kebab’s gravy paired with the biryani elevated the overall taste.

The restaurant’s location is convenient, and the service was quick and efficient without compromising the food’s quality. The interior decor was simple yet welcoming, contributing to a comfortable dining atmosphere. Overall, it was a great experience — fresh and flavorful food, excellent service, and a pleasant atmosphere. Dastarkhwan is definitely a must-visit if you want to savor authentic Lucknawi flavors in a...

I returned to this outlet after a year, only to discover that what was once enjoyable has now declined into sheer disappointment. My order—Galouti Kebab, Pepper Chicken, Kadhai Paneer, and Mughlai Paratha—promised variety, but delivered regret.

The Galouti Kebab tasted raw, lacking the delicate spice it is known for. The curries were heavy on oil and shockingly light on flavor—food from a modest street stall would have been far more satisfying, and at a fraction of the ₹1500 spent here. If your goal is to raise your triglyceride levels, you need not look elsewhere—they provide it generously, free of charge.

Service was equally poor. Despite ordering two gravies together, the second arrived only after we were nearly done with lunch, reflecting a lack of attentiveness. Cleanliness and hygiene were no saving grace either—the condition of the washrooms was well below the standard expected of a reputed chain.

Verdict: An experience that was once good has now turned into a lesson in disappointment. Poor food, poor service, and poor hygiene—altogether, a place that leaves you with...

I recently dined at Dastarkhwan and overall, the experience was quite delightful. The standout feature of this restaurant is undoubtedly its excellent food quality. The Galawati kababs are the true stars of the menu, meeting and even exceeding the high expectations associated with this renowned dish. The Chicken Masala and Butter Chicken also deserve a special mention for their rich and flavorful taste.

The only downsides to the experience were the slightly high prices and the limited seating facility. While the dishes are undeniably delicious, the cost may be a bit steep for some diners. Additionally, the restaurant's popularity is evident in the crowded atmosphere, and the limited seating may pose a challenge during peak hours. It's advisable to plan accordingly or consider takeout during busy times.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the culinary experience at Dastarkhwan is worth the visit. If you're a fan of authentic flavors and don't mind a bustling environment, this restaurant is definitely worth...