With the IPL 2026 season in full swing, Lucknow will witness a high-energy face-off between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on May 7, 2026. In a city like Lucknow, where food is not just eaten, but experienced. Around the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Cricket Stadium, you do not need a fancy cafe or a long sit-down meal to fill you.
What matters before heading to watch an IPL match 2026 at the stadium is picking food that works best for you, something filling enough to keep you going through long hours inside, but also not so heavy that it slows you down. From chaat counters that deliver instant flavour kicks to kebab joints that represent Lucknow’s food uniqueness, there’s enough variety to fit every kind of plan. Whether you are stopping for a quick bite or sitting down for a proper meal, these spots keep things sorted and most importantly, budget-friendly.
Royal Cafe
If you want to have something quick but also full of flavour, this can be a go-to. The must-try here is the basket chaat, which is a crisp edible shell loaded with potatoes, chutneys, curd and sev, giving you crunch, tang and sweetness, all in one bite. You can also try aloo tikki chaat or pani puri, if you want to have something lighter. It’s perfect for a quick stop to fill yourself with sumptuous food before heading to the stadium.
Location: Hazratganj, Lucknow
Timings: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Cost for Two: Rs 300–Rs 500 approx
(Image credit: Freepik)
Tunday Kababi
A place that needs no introduction, tunday kabab is where Lucknow’s food legacy comes alive. The menu revolves around kebabs and easy pairings, but the execution is what stands out. You need to try their galouti kebab with ulte tawa ka paratha, which is a soft, almost melt-in-the-mouth kebab texture with a rich spice blend, balanced by a crisp, soft buttery paratha. You can also explore seekh kebabs if you want to have something a bit firmer. It’s indulgent, so best if you’re not rushing and have some time on hand.
Location: Aminabad
Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Cost For Two: Rs 400–Rs 700 approx
Dastarkhwan
If you are looking for a proper sit-down meal that keeps you going during the match, and still stays budget-friendly, this place works perfectly. The menu focuses on Awadhi classics, such as biryani, korma and kebabs that feel satisfying rather than being too rich. Their chicken biryani takes away all the limelight, which is fragrant and well-spiced without being too oily. Pair it with mutton korma if you want to have something more indulgent. Portions are generous, making it a good one-meal stop before heading to the match.
Location: Hazratganj
Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cost For Two: Rs 500–Rs 800 approx
Sharma Tea Stall
Another, well-known spot, this is your quick, no-fuss place when you do not want to have a heavy meal. The menu, though simple, is done right, like tea, buns and basic snacks. Their bun maska with chai is an OG combo to try, with soft bread having a generous layer of butter, paired with strong, kadak tea. It’s light, satisfying and perfect if you are heading directly to the stadium without wanting to feel too stuffed.
Location: Lalbagh
Timings: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Cost For Two: Rs 100–Rs 200 approx
(Image credit: Freepik)
Capoor & Sons
If you’re looking for something simple and also a bit modern, this café-style spot will fit perfectly. The menu has wraps, burgers, fries and shakes, which feels easy, quick and also familiar. Locals swear by their loaded fries, topped generously and perfect for sharing, along with the grilled sandwiches that are crisp on the outside and soft from within. It’s a good choice if you are heading with friends and want something comfortable and familiar before the match.
Location: Gomti Nagar
Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cost For Two: Rs 400–Rs 700 approx
The Cherry Tree Cafe
For a slow, more relaxed pre-match feast, this café offers a relaxing break from the rush. The menu tilts towards continental, such as pizzas, pastas, coffee and also desserts. Their thin-crust pizza is a must-try, which is light but filling, making it perfect to have before a long match. Pair it with a cold coffee to make it even more refreshing. It’s a good pick if you are ahead of the time and want to sit and relax before the match frenzy begins.
Location: Gomti Nagar
Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Cost For Two: Rs 600–Rs 900 approx