In Kolkata for Durga Puja? Here is your Ultimate Street Food Guide!
Kolkata during Durga Puja is not just about the stunning pandals and vibrant festivities; it’s also about diving into some serious street food adventures. The city turns into a culinary carnival, and every lane and street is filled with sizzling treats, spicy delights, and unique flavours. Get ready to explore the must-have street foods in the City of Joy during Durga Puja!
Tangy, Spicy, and Totally Iconic
Kolkata’s phuchkas (a.k.a. the OG pani puri) will set your taste buds on fire! These crispy, hollow shells are filled with spicy mashed potatoes and dipped in tangy tamarind water and if you love the crunch, try Churmur.
Where to Try: Don’t miss the legendary phuchka vendors at Vivekananda Park or Deshopriyo Park. Trust us, they’re the real deal!
Kolkata’s Street Food Superstar!
If you haven’t tried a Kathi roll, did you even visit Kolkata? Originating from Nizam’s, this snack is a paratha stuffed with juicy kebabs, onions, and a drizzle of sauces. It’s filling, and delicious, and you can grab it on the go!
Where to Try: Besides Nizam’s, check out Hot Kati Roll on Park Street or Zeeshan in Park Circus for an unforgettable bite
The Crunch Master!
Bengali deep-fried fritters, or telebhaja, are all about crunch! From potato, onion, and eggplant to banana flowers, these fritters are perfect with a cup of hot chai.
Where to Try: Lakshmi Narayan Shaw and Sons in Hatibagan and Kalika Mukhorochok Telebhaja at College Street are your go-to spots.
Breakfast of Champions!
Get your day started with a plate of crispy kochuri or radhaballabhi filled with lentils, paired with spicy alur dom (potato curry). Top it off with a sweet finish of Bengali desserts like pantua or rosogolla!
Where to Try: Maharaja Snacks or Maharani Tea and Tiffin near Lake Market, and Adi Haridas Modak at Shyambazar
A Flavour Bomb with a Twist!
Kolkata biryani is unlike any other—mild, fragrant, and with a unique twist of potatoes and boiled eggs, thanks to its Awadhi and Mughlai roots. Whether you like chicken or mutton, this biryani never disappoints!
Where to Try: Arsalan in Park Circus, Aminia in Esplanade, and the iconic Royal Indian Hotel in Chitpur for the mutton biryani.
The Spicy Chickpea Delight!
This is Kolkata’s take on chaat: a hearty mix of yellow peas cooked in a spicy gravy, topped with chopped onions, tomatoes, chillies, and tamarind sauce. It’s street food comfort at its best!
Where to Try: Dacres Lane in Esplanade and Vardaan Market are hotspots for this treat
Dumplings to Die For!
Originally from Tibet, these steamed or fried dumplings have found their way into Kolkata’s heart. Chicken, pork, or veggie—whatever your preference, these dumplings come with a spicy red chutney and a clear soup.
Where to Try: Look for momo stalls around Garia and around South City Mall.
If you find this interesting, download or share it with your friends and family or on your socials!
