The Obvious Side Of Calcutta

I wrote about my trip to Calcutta sometime back. The article majorly focused on exploring places, art and general life in the city. What I peculiarly like about the place is, it’s a metropolitan but still, it’s not as fast-paced or expensive; like any other Indian metropolitan. I think the food in the city deserves a standing ovation, for being a wonderful mix of cultures. The best of Bengali, Muglia, Anglo-Indian and Tibetan can be found here at dirt cheap prices. There are some places which are expensive but most of Calcutta is very well affordable to the masses.

Thanks to our varied and extensive culture mix, the list is endless just like any other place. Still, I would compile a list of top 5 places, which should not be missed by a food enthusiast if you happen to be in town.

Flury

The number one place for anyone visiting the city, this place has everything the old world charm, great food, wonderful ambience and sophisticated crowd to match. Started in 1926 by Mrs. & Mr J. Flury, the place is known for its all-day breakfast spreads, English tea cakes, coffee. The single-origin chocolate cakes and the chicken puffs are what people swear by when most of India was muddling with Idli-dosa and Chola-bhatura some lucky ones were wiping off fine cupcakes and English breakfast.

Address: 18 Park Street, Kolkata, 700071

Nizam

If you are fond of Kathi rolls, why not have it from the place which started it. A true comfort food, Nizam’s Kathi roll is a fried paratha packed with a fried egg, spicy meats, onions and chillies, all of which is rolled up and served like a burrito. Such is the fame of Nizam’s Kathi roll that celebrity chef-traveler Rick Stein has called the Kathi roll ‘the perfect street food’. A kheeri roll is what a Kolkattan would swear by and is a must-try if you haven’t already.

Address: 23/24, Hogg Street, New Market Area, Kolkata

Bhojohari Manna

Named after Manna Dey’s famous Bengali song of 70’s the brand is now more well versed, than the song it came from. This is the place for easy-going Bengali food, fits well for a family, set of friends or casual meeting. The menu is handwritten every day on a whiteboard, which changes as per the season. The brand is now available in 5 cities across India and is growing at a pace faster than imagination.

Address: Numerous branches across cities

Arsalan

Located in the Kolkata’s unofficial dining district, Arsalan is the place not just for Calcuttans but all of India when it comes to Biryani. Anyone and everyone wants to have it once in a lifetime at least. In addition to its unforgettable biryani, other favourites include chicken chaanp, haleem & a wide array of kawabs.

Address: 191, Park St, Beniapukur Kolkata, West Bengal 700017, India

K.C. Das

Bengalis are artists and their art flows in their food too. Mr Nobin Chandra Das is the man who is credited for inventing every Indian’s easy-going sweet dish Rossogolla/Rasgulla. In 1986 with several failed attempts over Casein and sugar syrup, this beauty was born to rule till the Armageddon at his shop located in Bag bazaar.

Address: Numerous branches across Calcutta

I have also written in-depth about a few great places to eat in Calcutta that are not so well knows but if you have time you must explore the same, check the not so obvious side of Calcutta, let us know in comments what do you feel about the places I have pinned for you.