Idris ki Biryani is the most discussed biryani address in Lucknow — a small, basic shop in Raja Bazaar that has been producing one dish, in one style, for several decades. The mutton biryani here is the long-grain Awadhi kind: layered with marinated mutton in a sealed handi, slow-cooked over coals, opened at the table for steam and aroma to escape. The rice stays separate; the meat is fall-apart soft.
Plastic stools, no menu, and one plate per person. Service is breakfast through early afternoon — go before two if you want any chance of finding it open. Bring cash; no cards. Combined with a walk through Chowk this is one of the most authentic ways to spend a morning in old Lucknow.