As the city of Kolkata pulsates with the vibrant and joyful celebration of the festival of Durga Pujo, the streets are agog with wonderful sights, sounds and smells that fill the nostrils and mouth with delights. On the joyous occasion, the lanes of Kolkata come alive with a myriad of flavours and traditions that make it one of the most fascinating culinary destinations of the country.
As part of the festivities, people, both young and old, flock to the iconic eateries of the city, to indulge in time-honoured classic dishes in an unending pet puja. So this Durga Puja, make sure you head to these 15 note-worthy places and give your taste buds the ultimate treat!
1.) Fish Fry From Apanjan, Ballygunge
Since 1983, Apanjan in Kolkata has been serving the best Fish Fry in town. From the crunchy prawn fries, to the zesty soyabean fries, and the spicy chilli fish, you can guarantee an out of the world seafood experience that will leave you wanting more! Whether you're a seafood lover or simply in the mood for something delicious and different, Apanjan's delicious fish fry is the perfect way to satisfy your tastebuds.
2. Hot Kathi Rolls From Kusum, Taltala
Kusum's is the spice-lover's dream, with veggies, egg, chicken, or mutton artfully blending with whole-wheat parathas. The aromas wafting through the air tantalise your senses and drive your hunger into overdrive. Take a bite and experience the burst of flavours as the perfect balance of spices captivate your palate.
3. Mughlai Paratha From Arsalan, Park Circus
Arsalan, infamous for its Mughlai Paratha, has been serving generations of locals since 1981. All kinds of filling like egg, chicken, mutton or vegetable and paneer can be stuffed inside the paratha.
4. Biryani from Dada Boudi Biryani, Park Circus
If you want to experience the greatest Kolkata biryani you've ever tasted, pay a visit to Dada Boudi Biryani. But be prepared to wait in line for several hours to get your hands on this culinary delight.
5. Fish Kobiraji from Mitra Cafe, Sovabazar
Mitra Cafe is every Kolkatan's go-to for delicious traditional Fish Kabiraji. The centuries-old food joint serves up these crumb fried cutlets filled with minced mutton, topped with a lacy framework of beaten egg.
6. Kosha Mangsho At Golbari, Shyam Bazar
For every Calcuttan, this venerated eatery has become a go-to destination for the spicy, delectable goodness of kosha mangsho. It’s a dish made with a carefully concocted mix of ingredients, said to provide an ultimately authentic taste of the city. Defying status and class, this classic dish has become an integral part of the city’s culinary culture.
7. Rezala at Sabir’s Restaurant, Chandni Chowk
For those in search of a delicious Mughlai feast, look no further than Sabir’s Restaurant in Chandni Market! A long standing favourite spot for many, Sabir's is famous for their signature Rezala, a fragrant yogurt-based mutton curry, and makes for a truly unique dining experience. Complement your meal with a warm naan, and you'll be in for a treat!
8. Shawarma At Ar-Han Thai, Forum Mall
At Forum Mall's food court, a scene of culinary wonder pulled in the crowds: An inverted pyramid of succulent chicken, slowly rotating on the spit. The shawarmas served here have been the talk of the town, and the deliciousness only increased with the inclusion of coriander and mint chutney, as well as diced onions. Even after all these years, the shawarmas still remain mouthwateringly amazing!
9. Vada At Chauhan Victoria Vada, Park Street
For a taste sensation like no other, head down to 25A Camac Street and sample the delicious Chauhan Victoria Vada. These deep-fried patties are made with a unique blend of boiled split green gram, peppers, herbs and spices giving them a unique flavour and crunch.
10. Dancing Coffee At Prema Vilas, Rashbehari Avenue
Ever tried coffee with a twist? Then Prema Vilas is the place to be. Serving up a delightful Dancing Coffee since the last 60 years, it's an unmissable treat for all food fans. This magical concoction is created using coffee, hot milk, and foam that creates beautiful float-like waves – perfect for those looking for a unique culinary experience.
11.Rainbow Cake At Paris Café, Lake Road
Stop and admire the beauty that is the Rainbow Cake at Paris Café on Lake Road! Baked with a signature recipe by Le Cordon Bleu graduate Sneha Singhi, this multi-layered treat will satisfy your sweet tooth and has earned its place as an Instagram-worthy dessert. Rich, creamy, and powerful in all the seven colours of the rainbow, yum!
12. Chaat At Khirki Shri Hari Jalpan Shop, New Alipore
If you're looking for a Chaat experience like no other, look no further than this tiny hole-in-the-wall shop in New Alipore! Folks from all across Kolkata have been lured by the tantalising aroma and delicious flavors of their Papri Chaat, Bhel and Aloo Dum for years.
13. Doodh Cola at Balwant Singh, Bhawanipore
The most "bizarre" yet beloved drink of Kolkata, Doodh Cola, is only found at Balwant Singh's Dhaba. A unique concoction of milk and cola, this delicious drink has become the talk of the town, with people travelling far and wide just to try a glass. Despite the unusual combination, it has a unique burst of flavours that will leave you wanting more.
14. Ilish Sizzler At Saptapadi, Golpark
Known for its stellar Bengali food, this place also offers special sizzlers – like the sensational Ilish Sizzler that’s full of rich, classical Bengali flavours.
15. Chicken Paella At Raj Spanish Café, Dharmatala
Tucked away in the alleys of Kolkata lies a taste of Spanish culture, a traditional Valencian chicken paella. Prepared with everything from vegetables to meat and seafood and seasoned with saffron, it's a dish cooked to perfection by a Spaniard, who comes to the city twice a year, from January to March and July to September,
Celebrate this Durga Pujo by exploring the charm of Kolkata's iconic eateries and sample its excellent cuisine, reliving its timeless traditions and making memories that will last a lifetime. What's your best culinary pick this Pujo?
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