Browse by Cuisine
Restaurants in Kolkata
Showing 12 of 12 restaurantsSignature Dishes
Kolkata cuisine is characterized by its subtle sweetness, use of 'panch phoron' (a five-spice blend), and emphasis on fresh ingredients. Fish, especially hilsa, prawns, and bhetki, feature prominently. Sweet curd and flavorful desserts are an integral part of any Bengali meal.
Kosha Mangsho
A slow-cooked mutton dish, rich in spices like ginger, garlic, and garam masala. The mutton is browned (kosha) before being simmered in a thick, flavorful gravy.
Shukto
A mixed vegetable stew with a distinctive bitter-sweet flavor. It often includes bitter gourd, eggplant, potatoes, and drumsticks, cooked with ginger, mustard seeds, and a touch of milk.
Machh Bhaja
Fish fry, typically made with Rohu, Katla or Bhetki. The fish is marinated in turmeric, salt, and chili powder, then shallow-fried until golden brown and crispy.
Aloo Posto
Potatoes cooked in a poppy seed paste (posto). A simple yet flavorful dish, the creamy poppy seed paste lends a nutty sweetness to the potatoes.
Mishti Doi
Sweetened yogurt, traditionally made by caramelizing sugar and then mixing it with yogurt culture. It's set in earthen pots, giving it a unique flavor and texture.
Rosogolla
Spongy cheese balls soaked in a light sugar syrup. They are light, airy, and melt in your mouth.
Sandesh
A sweet made from chhena (Indian cheese) kneaded with sugar and often flavored with cardamom or saffron. It comes in various shapes and sizes and has a creamy texture.
Phuchka
A popular street food, similar to pani puri. It consists of a crispy, hollow sphere filled with spiced mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and a tangy tamarind water.
Kathi Roll
Marinated and grilled meat or vegetables wrapped in a paratha (Indian flatbread). A popular street food option, often filled with chicken, mutton, or paneer.
Biryani
While not exclusive to Kolkata, the Kolkata Biryani has its own unique twist. It is characterized by the use of potatoes and a lighter spice profile compared to other regional biryanis. It often contains a boiled egg as well.
Local Tips
To truly experience Kolkata's culinary scene, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Explore Street Food
Don't be afraid to venture into the street food stalls. They offer a wide variety of affordable and delicious treats. However, always choose vendors with a clean and hygienic setup.
Try the Hilsa (seasonal)
Embrace the Sweetness
Bengali cuisine has a subtle sweetness. Be open to trying dishes that might seem unusual at first. The blend of sweet and savory flavors is a hallmark of Kolkata's food.
Bargain at Markets
If you plan to buy spices or ingredients, visit local markets like New Market or Gariahat Market. Bargaining is expected, so don't hesitate to negotiate the price.
Drink Bottled Water
Stick to bottled water or purified water to avoid any stomach issues.
About Kolkata
Food History
Kolkata's cuisine is a vibrant tapestry woven from centuries of diverse influences. Mughal rule, British colonialism, and the influx of various communities like the Chinese and Armenians have all contributed to its unique culinary identity. A blend of spice, sweetness, and a delicate balance of flavors are hallmarks of Kolkata's food.
Food Culture
Food in Kolkata is more than just sustenance; it's an integral part of the city's culture and social fabric. From elaborate family meals to lively street food stalls, food brings people together and reflects the city's rich heritage.
Adda
'Adda' is a quintessential Bengali tradition of informal social gatherings, often centered around food and tea. People gather to chat, debate, and discuss everything from politics to literature.
Durga Puja Feasts
Durga Puja, the biggest festival in Kolkata, is a celebration of food and culture. Pandals (temporary structures) offer a wide array of food stalls, from traditional Bengali dishes to street food favorites.
Pice Hotels
Pice hotels are traditional, no-frills eateries that offer affordable and authentic Bengali meals. They are a glimpse into the city's culinary past and a great place to experience home-style cooking.
Sweet Shops (Mishtir Dokan)
Sweet shops are ubiquitous in Kolkata and are cultural institutions in their own right. They are places where people gather to socialize and indulge in delicious Bengali sweets. They are an integral part of everyday life and celebrations.