best-places-to-eat-in-Kolkata

Hungry in Kolkata? A Foodie’s Guide to the City’s Best Bites

Kolkata is a city that tantalizes your taste buds with its diverse and delicious culinary scene. From lip-smacking street food to elegant fine dining experiences, there’s something for every palate. Here are some of the best places to eat in Kolkata, with a focus on popular street food options:

Street Food Delights:

  • Victoria Memorial & Maidan:

    • Phuchka (Pani Puri): A quintessential Kolkata street food, crispy hollow puri shells filled with mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and tangy tamarind water. Try the stalls near Victoria Memorial for an authentic experience.
    • Jhal Muri: Puffed rice tossed with mustard oil, spices, chopped onions, peanuts, and sometimes boiled potatoes. This is a light and refreshing snack perfect for a hot day.

  • Park Street & Camac Street:

    • Kathi Rolls: Succulent meat (chicken, mutton, or paneer) grilled on skewers and wrapped in a paratha bread with onions, chillies, and sauce. Famous stalls include Kusum’s and Nizam’s.
    • Egg Rolls: A Kolkata twist on the classic egg roll, these are crispy fried rolls filled with boiled eggs, chopped onions, green chillies, and spices.

  • College Street & Shyambazar:

    • Telebhaja (Fritters): Crispy fried snacks made from potatoes, onions, spinach, or cauliflower. Pair them with a cup of masala chai for the perfect evening snack.
    • Ghughni: A spicy chickpea curry cooked with potatoes and spices, served hot in a bowl.

Beyond Street Food:

  • Aminia (Various locations): A Kolkata institution known for its melt-in-your-mouth biryani and other Mughlai delicacies.
  • Peter Cat (Park Street): Famous for its Chelo Kebab – a platter of kebabs served with rice, salad, and chutneys.
  • Flurys (Park Street): A historic tea room serving delectable pastries, cakes, sandwiches, and afternoon tea.
  • 6 Ballygunge Place: Experience authentic Bengali cuisine with dishes like Kosha Mangsho (mutton curry) and Doi Maach (fish cooked in yogurt).

Tips for Exploring Kolkata’s Food Scene:

  • Be adventurous: Try everything from phuchka to kathi rolls to experience the full range of flavors.
  • Ask locals for recommendations: They know the best hidden gems and street food stalls.
  • Carry cash: Many street food vendors only accept cash.
  • Negotiate prices: Bargaining is common practice at some street food stalls.
  • Enjoy the atmosphere: Soak in the bustling energy of Kolkata’s streets while indulging in delicious food.

Bon appétit!