The city of Kolkata is a food lover's mecca. From street food and iconic restaurants dating back to the British era to the best Indian Chinese in the country, the city has it all. Here is our pick of the most popular and must-try restaurants in Kolkata.
Mocambo, Park Street Area
Located on bustling Park Street, this restaurant was started in the 1950s. The heritage restaurant is known for its Devilled Crab, steaks, and Baked Alaska.
Address: Ground Floor, 25B, Mirza Ghalib St, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal
Peter Cat, Park Street Area
This is another iconic establishment on Park Street. Opened in the 1970s, Peter Cat’s Chelo Kabab platter is much-loved. Also try other North Indian classics and sizzlers while dining here.
Address: Stephen Court Building, 18 A, Park St, opposite KFC Restaurant, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal
Flurys, Park Street Area
The popular tearoom and cafe first opened its doors in 1927! It is loved for its European confectionery – pastries, cakes, and tea. Also try the English Breakfast spread.
Address: 18A, Park St, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal
Indian Coffee House, College Street
Part of the Indian Coffee House chain that dots the map of the whole country, this cafe is a humble but legendary establishment. This is an intellectual hub which has seen many notable guests over the decades. The menu is simple with coffee and snacks.
Address: 15, Bankim Chatterjee St, College Square West, College Street, Kolkata, West Bengal
Koshe Kosha, Golpark
This is a popular restaurant serving Bengali food. On your visit try authentic dishes such as Kosha Mutton, Moshla Murgi, Dhakai Mangsho, and Chingri Cutlet.
Address: 62, Ballygunge Gardens, Golpark, Kolkata, West Bengal
6 Ballygunge Place, Ballygunge
The charming restaurant with a colonial vibe serves authentic local fare. Some must-try dishes are Bhetki Roll, Begun Basanti, and Doi Ilish. They also have buffets if you don’t want to choose just one dish!
Address: 6, Dr Amiya Bose Sarani Rd, near Patha Bhavan School, Ballygunge Place, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal
Blue Poppy-Thakali, Camac Street Area
Some of the best North Eastern food, from Sikkimese to Nepali and Tibetan, can be found here. We recommend their famous momos and the Nepali thali.
Address: 4, 1, Middleton St, Kankaria Estates, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal
Kusum Rolls, Park Street Area
Calcutta-style rolls are super famous and delicious. And this is a popular joint to get your hands on them. The egg roll and the chicken rolls are a must-try, especially the ones with cheese which were popularised by this establishment.
Address: 21, Park St, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal
Azad Hind, Ballygunge
This dhaba-style restaurant is known for its Mughlai and North Indian fare. Do try the Chicken Tikka Masala, Kebabs, Dal Tadka, Biryani, and buttery naans.
Address: 12, 1, Ballygunge Circular Rd, Rowland Row, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal
Jimmy's Kitchen, Theatre Road
This Chinese restaurant has been dishing out classic Chinese fare since the 1950s. The must-haves are Chilli Roast Pork, Hakka Chowmein, and Chop Sui, amongst others.
Address: 7, 1A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Mullick Bazar, Elgin, Kolkata, West Bengal
Nizam's, New Market Area
This restaurant is the birthplace of Kathi rolls and has been serving Mughlai dishes for decades. Try the mutton rolls and the Mughlai biryani.
Address: 23 & 24, Hogg St, near Axis Bank Atm, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal
Golden Joy, Tangra
Situated in Chinatown, Golden Joy has the best Indian Chinese food in the city. If you visit, we recommend the Duck Roast, Chilli Chicken, and Noodles.
Address: 50, Matheswartala Road, Topsia, Kolkata, West Bengal
Kareem’s, Park Street
While this restaurant is not related to the noted Delihi-based Karim’s, they do serve delicious Mughlai fare. The Malai Kebab and Ghosht Biryani are worth a try.
Address: 55B, Mirza Ghalib St, Esplanade, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal
Sienna Store & Cafe, Hindustan Park
This cafe boasts pretty Instagram-worthy interiors that make it a must-visit. The food is prepared using fresh, organic ingredients. Order their pastas and soups and round your meal off with a slice of the walnut cake.
Address: 49, 1, Golpark, Hindustan Park, Gariahat, Kolkata, West Bengal
Oh! Calcutta, Elgin Road
As the name suggests, this restaurant is an homage to Bengali cuisine, and has branches all over the country. Dig into the specials such as Mochar Chop, Bhetki Gondhoraj, and Ilish Paturi.
Address: Forum Mall, 10/3, Elgin Rd, Sreepally, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal
Anagha Maareesha
I am a journalist based in Bangalore with more than a decade of experience. Food, travel and learning more about new cultures are what bring me the most joy. Though a travel-bug at heart, you can mostly find me at home with a frayed paperback and a large mug of tea.