Kolkata is a land of rich history, heritage and culture. From being the capital of British India to becoming one of the most popular foodie destinations in the world, the city has seen a lot over the centuries. Today, it made the list of the 11 Best Global Food Destinations for 2023, according to Eater’s website. And we totally agree! Puchka, ghughni, jhalmuri, mishti doi, kathi roll, alur chop and more – the city has a lot to satisfy the foodie. In fact, if you explore, you will find a new variety of food in every nook and corner of the city. This often confuses a tourist who is planning a food trail in the town. Fret not, as always, we are here to rescue you. We have put together a list of some must-see places where you can experience the food culture of Kolkata in its full glory. read on.
photo credit: iStock
Here are 7 must-visit places to experience the food culture of Kolkata:
Decker Lane:
Located in the heart of Kolkata’s ‘Karyalaya Para’ (office area), this place caters to thousands of office goers on a daily basis. From chai and bread toast to road-side chow mein, egg rolls, stew-bread and much more, you get a variety of street food at one place. The best part is that you still get these food items in a price that is not too heavy for your pocket.
how to reach: Get down at Esplanade Metro Station, cross the road and reach KC Das Sweets at Chowringhee More. From there, walk straight for about 200 meters and you will see the signboard at the beginning of the lane itself.
Fairlie Place, Stock Exchange Road:
Another food hub in the office area of Kolkata is Fairlie Place. Located in the heart of the city, this place is located near Stock Exchange Road. From simple cheela and dal dumplings to luchi-alu`r dome and fish and rice, you can get it all here within a budget. The place caters to thousands of office goers on a daily basis.
how to reach: The best way to reach Fairlie Place is to get down at Chandni Chowk Metro Station. Get off at the Metro station and take a bus to Fairlie Place. You can also launch and get down at Babu Ghat and walk towards Strand Road.
Zakaria Street:
Looking for Kebabs & Nihari in Kolkata? Zakaria Street is the place for you. Located right next to the historic Nakhoda Mosque in Kolkata, this place offers the most authentic Mughlai taste you can think of. Wander the lanes and taste Kebabs, Nihari, Biryani, Haleem, Sheermal, Rabri and much more.
how to reach: This place is situated between Barabazar and Chitpur. Get down at Central Metro Station or MG Road Metro Station and walk for 10 minutes to reach Nakhoda Masjid. And this is where the street begins.
photo credit: iStock
Terti Bazar:
Have you ever heard of the 5 a.m. breakfast market in Kolkata? If not, then you must visit Tereti Bazaar – Kolkata’s own mini-Chinatown. As its name suggests, this place serves some good Chinese food and opens early in the morning. The most popular items served at this breakfast market are steamed momos, handmade sausages, stuffed buns, pork rolls, wontons, and more.
how to reach: This place is situated between Central and Lal Bazar. Get down at the Central Metro station, exit Poddar Court and it is just a five-minute walk from there.
Tangra China Town:
Home to Chinese immigrants, Tangra is considered the birthplace of Indo-Chinese cuisine. You will find many big and small restaurants at every nook and corner (of this place) that serve the most delicious noodles and chili chicken to satisfy your soul. If you are a fan of Desi Chinese food, then you must try one such eatery in Tangra.
how to reach: Get down at Esplanade Metro Station and take a cab to Tangra. The approximate driving distance between Tangra and Esplanade Metro Station is five kilometres.
Black market:
One of the oldest food hubs of Kolkata, Shyambazar is located in North Kolkata. The place is always busy and offers a pool of delicious food items to try. From mango shakes available at the metro station to chaat available at Hatibagan Mor, you will find some delicious street food across the region. And of course, don’t forget to provide Fukka in the streets.
how to reach: Just get down at the Shyambazar metro station and you foodie is there to discover.
Park Street:
How can we skip Park Street, the most popular area of Kolkata, to fully enjoy the essence of Kolkata. From the popular kathi rolls available at street side stalls to iconic restaurants such as Trincas, Flurries, Mocambo, Peter Cat and more, you will find it all on both sides of Park Street Main Road. Start with English breakfast at Flurys, then have chelo kebabs at Peter Cat for lunch and end the day at Trincas or Mocambo with chicken a-la-kieve, deviled crab and some refreshing drinks.
how to reach: Get off at Park Street Metro Station and explore.
Keep this guide handy and plan a food trail on your next trip to Kolkata.
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