HIDDEN SECRETS OF INDIA - KOLKATA HIDDEN FOOD TRAILS by Dibiya Chakraborty

Kolkata’s culinary scene is rich, vibrant and ever-rewarding to any food connoisseur. It isn’t just in traditional kitchens or legendary restaurants where you will witness the dynamism of Kolkata’s cuisine, the city’s street food culture is a world onto itself. 

It’s been twenty years since I have lived in Kolkata and so I am quite familiar with the nooks and crannies in Kolkata. But this city is so full of culture that even after living here for so long has not been enough to know all about it. But the food here is something that I have become familiar with, especially the street food, which is versatile. 

Here are some street food dishes you shouldn’t miss out on while in Kolkata:

Source: Facebook

1. Dragon Chicken at Lord’s more:

Right opposite South City Mall, are a slew of eateries that will take your breath away. Whether you talk about the local phuchkas, chaat, momos, sweet and savory shops, bakeries, or shacks selling Chinese food, there's nothing to not be loved. Watch out for a certain Dragon Chicken from the smaller establishments while you're on this stretch.

Source: Facebook

2. Momos at Rabindra Sadan Metro Exit: 

The Tibetan cuisine has always been a favourite in Kolkata, and Rabindra Sadan Metro Exit is one of the best places to have these amazing dumplings. Momos here are served with a piping hot soup and the perfect sauce for accompaniments- the very definition of comfort food! A line of little establishments dot this area and they are always flocked by students and office goers in large numbers. The momos here are breathtaking, and the low prices will leave you amazed and craving for more!

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3. Pav Bhaji at Mayaram’s, Lord Sinha Road: 

If you have a pav bhaji craving while you're in Kolkata, this is where you should be heading to! Mayaram's makes one of the best pav bhajis in all of Kolkata. If you're crossing the shop on your way, I assure you, you can't go on without surrendering to the charms of a plate of the most fragrant, paradisaical pav bhaji! Note: While you're on Lord Sinha Road, try the gola, or chuski, as it is more fondly known and the soda shikanji. They are served in sizeable earthen glasses and are absolutely great on a Kolkata afternoon, before and after those shopping sprees.

Source: Zomato

4. Mutton Kabiraji Cutlet at Mitra Café:

Like non-veg food? Head to Mitra café. Period. The Mutton Kabiraji cutlet here is to die for. Literally, die for. It's a filling of minced mutton wrapped in an egg net and deep-fried and is the very definition of a foodgasm for any non-vegetarian foodies! Moghlai Parathas, Fish chops, Fish fingers, you name it. Rolls of every kind that you can think of are available here and NONE of them disappoints. Heed my advice, go here with an empty stomach and walk back full, because you'll need to burn off some of all that you stuffed!