30 June,2009 10:45 AM IST | | Aanchal Kurmi
THE GUIDE dropped in at Oudhiyana, where the authentic "lucknowi" khana failed to impress
The new eatery at Model Town makes you hope in vain for yummy Lucknowi food. Oudhiyana claims to serve authentic Lucknowi cuisine which reminds us of food flavoured with cardamom and saffron and inspired by the cooking techniques of the Mughals. Alas, the eatery does not live up to the expectations.
Ambience: Being a new joint, we expected it to be brimming with youngsters. However, the place was empty as a foreboding of things to come. The walls are decorated with beautiful pictures of the landmarks of Lucknow, such as the Bada Imambara and the Charbagh Railway Station but the decor fails to compensate for the average fare.
We tried: We started our meal with the Galawati Kebab (Rs 60), which included just four pieces of kebabs served with green chutney and onions. The dish was palatable, only when the kababs were covered generously by chutney. For the main course, we opted for the Rumali Roti and Mutton Do Pyaza (Rs 110). The mutton pieces were succulent but the gravy was tasteless. The chef assured us that the Biryani served at Oudhiyana was special, so, we decided to give it a go. However, we found the Mutton Biryani (Rs 120) was just about average. We liked the Awadhi Kheeru00a0 (Rs 30) though, which was rich in Mawa and dry fruits.
Service: Oudhiyana is a self-service restaurant but the attendants and even the chef are helpful and at your constant beck and call.