Sri Lanka, Dec. 20 -- Mouth-watering kebabs, fragrant biryani and whipped cloud-like desserts.

The northern Indian city of Lucknow has always been a food lovers' paradise, with locals and visitors swearing by its cuisine.

Last month, Unesco recognised it as a Creative City of Gastronomy - adding it to a select list of global cities and kindling hopes that it will spotlight Lucknow's sublime food. With this designation, it joins a global network of 408 cities across more than 100 countries committed to promoting "creativity as a driver of sustainable urban development".

The recognition "is a testament to its deep-rooted culinary traditions and vibrant food ecosystem", Tim Curtis, director and representative, Unesco Regional Office for S...