Dec 3, 2024
8 mins read
8 mins read

A Food Lover’s Guide to Kolkata: Street Food, Sweets, and Traditional Dishes

A Food Lover’s Guide to Kolkata: Street Food, Sweets, and Traditional Dishes

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a city known for its rich culture, heritage, and most importantly, its food. The vibrant food scene in Kolkata is a delightful fusion of Bengali, British, and global influences, making it a paradise for food lovers. Whether you are a street food enthusiast, a sweet-tooth craving Bengali desserts, or a fan of traditional dishes, Kolkata offers an array of culinary experiences. In this Food Lover’s Guide to Kolkata, we will walk you through the must-try dishes, the city's best street food, iconic sweets, and the finest dining spots that capture the essence of the city’s gastronomical legacy.

The Best Food in Kolkata: A Journey Through Time

Kolkata’s food scene is diverse, with a mixture of flavors, textures, and aromas that reflect the city’s multifaceted history. From the bustling streets to elegant restaurants, Kolkata serves up a variety of dishes that satisfy both the local palate and international tastes. Below are some of the best foods you must try on your visit.

1. Kathi Rolls: Kolkata’s Legendary Street Food

One of the most iconic dishes to try in Kolkata is the Kathi Roll. This street food is a quintessential Kolkata snack that has gained global recognition. A Kathi Roll consists of a paratha or flatbread wrapped around a variety of fillings, such as spiced chicken, mutton, or vegetables. The meat is marinated in flavorful spices, cooked until tender, and then served with onions, sauces, and a squeeze of lime.

Where to Try: The iconic Nizam’s in New Market, which is often credited with inventing the Kathi Roll, serves the best in the city. Other places like Zakir’s Kathi Rolls and Kolkata Rolls offer a unique twist on this classic snack.

2. Pani Puri: A Tangy Delight

Another favorite street food in Kolkata is Pani Puri, known locally as Phuchka. The dish consists of crisp, hollow puris filled with a spicy, tangy water made from tamarind, mint, and other secret spices. Each puri is popped into the mouth whole, releasing a burst of flavor.

Where to Try: The famous Phuchka stall at Vivekananda Park is a must-visit for the best-tasting Pani Puri. The street corners around Lake Market also serve delicious Phuchka to enjoy while watching the hustle and bustle of Kolkata’s streets.

3. Mishti Doi: The Sweet Yogurt of Kolkata

Kolkata is renowned for its sweet yogurt, known as Mishti Doi, which is an integral part of the city’s food culture. This dessert is made from thickened, sweetened yogurt, typically served in earthen pots, giving it a unique flavor. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the sweetness makes it an absolute must-try.

Where to TryBalaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick offers some of the finest Mishti Doi in the city. Another great place to savor this dessert is Mouchak in the Southern Avenue area.

4. Sandesh: Bengali’s Delightful Sweet

Sandesh is a traditional Bengali sweet made from fresh chhena (cottage cheese). It is usually flavored with cardamom or saffron and garnished with slivers of pistachio or almonds. Its light, delicate texture and mildly sweet taste make it an unforgettable part of Kolkata's sweet offerings.

Where to TryK.C. Das is the most famous destination for Sandesh in Kolkata, and they have been perfecting the art of making this treat since 1866.

5. Shorshe Ilish: The Ultimate Bengali Fish Dish

If you love seafood, Shorshe Ilish is a must-try. This quintessential Bengali dish features Hilsa fish cooked in a mustard-based gravy. The sharp flavor of the mustard perfectly complements the rich, oily texture of the Hilsa, making it a true delicacy.

Where to Try6 Ballygunge Place is renowned for its authentic Bengali seafood dishes, including Shorshe Ilish. Alternatively, you can also visit Bhojohori Manna, another restaurant that serves an excellent version of this dish.

6. Bengali Sweets: Rasgulla and Rajbhog

Rasgulla, made from spongy balls of chhena soaked in sugar syrup, is a classic Bengali sweet. It is often served during celebrations or after meals to cleanse the palate. Rajbhog is a richer variant of Rasgulla, filled with saffron-flavored cream and nuts.

Where to TryNalin Chandra Das & Sons and Sree Leathers are two of the best places in Kolkata to indulge in Rasgullas and other Bengali sweets.

7. Bhetki Paturi: Fish Wrapped in Banana Leaves

This traditional Bengali dish features Bhetki fish, marinated in mustard and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. The flavors are both bold and aromatic, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy fish dishes.

Where to TryAaheli and Bhojohori Manna both offer delicious versions of Bhetki Paturi that capture the authentic flavors of Bengali home-cooked meals.

8. Chicken or Mutton Kosha: A Spicy Meat Stew

Kosha Mangsho (spicy mutton stew) and Kosha Chicken are popular Bengali dishes that have been perfected over generations. These dishes feature tender pieces of chicken or mutton cooked in a thick, spiced gravy that is rich and flavorful. The meat is slow-cooked to absorb all the spices, making it a comforting, hearty meal.

Where to TryShreebhog and Mouchak are renowned for their Kosha Mangsho and Kosha Chicken, with a side of soft luchi (fried bread) for the perfect pairing.

9. The Famous Kolkata Rolls

Kolkata is famous for its Kolkata Kathi Rolls, but there’s another variation of the roll—the Chicken or Mutton Roll, served in a paratha or flatbread. The rolls are stuffed with your choice of meat, onions, chilies, and sauces.

Where to Try: Head over to Haji No. 1 or Shree Bhog to enjoy the delicious rolls that are often considered Kolkata’s fast food.

10. Luchi and Aloo Dum: A Perfect Breakfast Combo

A traditional Bengali breakfast includes Luchi (fried bread) paired with Aloo Dum (spicy potato curry). This comforting dish is a staple in Bengali households and is usually enjoyed with a hot cup of tea.

Where to TryShreebhog and Mouchak both serve an excellent breakfast, where you can enjoy this classic combination.

Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants in Kolkata

While street food is an essential part of Kolkata’s food culture, there are also several upscale restaurants that capture the essence of Bengali cuisine in a more refined way. For the best Bengali food, head to Bhojohori Manna6 Ballygunge Place, and Aaheli.

Cincinnati to Kolkata: Book Your Flight Now with IndianEagle

For all food lovers planning a trip to Kolkata, booking your flight is just the first step towards an unforgettable culinary adventure. IndianEagle offers the best flight deals for travelers flying from Cincinnati to Kolkata. With convenient flights and great customer service, you can begin your food journey to Kolkata stress-free. Don’t miss out on tasting the best food in Kolkata—book your tickets now through IndianEagle for an extraordinary travel experience!

 

Kolkata is a food lover's paradise, offering an abundance of street food, iconic Bengali sweets, and traditional dishes that will leave you craving more. From the rich flavors of Shorshe Ilish to the light, sweet taste of Mishti Doi, each dish tells a story of the city's heritage and its culinary evolution. As you explore Kolkata’s food scene, be sure to visit the best street food stalls, renowned restaurants, and historic eateries that have stood the test of time.

In this Food Lover’s Guide to Kolkata, we’ve only scratched the surface of what the city has to offer. So, pack your bags and get ready to indulge in the city’s culinary wonders. Whether you’re enjoying street food at a local stall or savoring a luxurious Bengali meal at a fine-dining restaurant, Kolkata promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience