Durga Puja in Kolkata is synonymous with feasting with family and friends. In between pandal hopping, catching up with friends over endless hours of "adda", everyone enjoys a sumptuous repast.
Topping the list of favourite things to eat is of course the "bhog", the special food offering made to the gods and later distributed among everyone.
Roadside stalls spring up even in the remotest of by-lanes, food courts can be found in many of the parks where Durga Puja is held, and of course no restaurant - from budget to five star - sits idle.
During the five days of the puja, expect to see long queues in front of restaurants.
One of the most interesting thing about eating out during Durga Puja is that people are not loathe to try every kind of cuisine. From Bengali to Indian, Oriental (including Kolkata Chinese) to Continental to Mediterranean, every cuisine is par for the course.
Here is our list of Kolkata restaurants where you may drop in in between pandal hopping or for a sumptuous feast during Durga Puja 2024.
This popular restaurant serving Awadhi and Mughlai cuisine is over 90 years old. Apart from its outlets in Kolkata, it has also extended its business to Siliguri and other district towns. They still believe in retaining the old recipes for their signature dishes such as the mutton or chicken biryani, mutton rezala, chicken chaap, etc.
Address: 6A, SN Banerjee Road, Kolkata 700087 tel 91 8100 666 444
Take a dive into the land of Irrawady at this restaurant which specialises in Burmese cuisine, with some of the dishes adapted to suit a variety of tastes that is celebrating a decade of operations in India in 2024. Treat yourself to Samosa Soup, Kachin Dried Mustard Soup, Lotus Root Salad, Pyajoo Kari Chaat, if you are looking for a light meal. Or, try the Mandalay Curry Noodles - a hearty bowl of flat noodles in a mild, freshly squeezed coconut milk curry with green tomatoes and shallots, topped with crispy fried noodles or Shiitake and Pok Choy Burmese Ramen, an umami broth of shiitake with crumbled tofu, greens, and rice noodles served with roasted chilli and red bean relish. They serve only vegetarian food.
Address: 18 M, Ground Floor, Stephen Court, Park Street, Kolkata 700071 tel 7506061460
This quick service restaurant takes pride in promoting farm to table food menu. This Durga Puja, they have a mixed menu on offer, ranging from Indian to Lebanese with bits of continental thrown in. For those on the move, their combos (bake dish fajita rolls a soft beverage, to name one) are the best bet.
Address: 200, Sarat Bose Rd, Lake Terrace, Kolkata 700029 tel 91 62921 46633
The restaurant will take you back to the Lucknow of yore, to the time of the Nawabs both with its décor and dishes. Menu highlights include Paneer Sugandhi Kabab, Paneer Korma, Chicken Qalmi Kabab, Mutton Galawati Kabab, Awadhi Sugandhi Mahi, Raan Biryani, Awadhi Handi Biriyani, etc. They are at multiple locations in Kolkata.
Address: 23/B, Deshapriya Park, Kolkata 700026 tel 91 7604035764
Kolkata’s newest rooftop hotspot, Cal-On, is a dynamic space perfect for dining, socializing, and celebrating. Spanning over 5,000 sq. ft., this vibrant venue features chic indoor seating and open-air terraces surrounded by lush vertical gardens. The menu offers an exciting mix of street-style bites and global flavours, with highlights like Blue Cheese Kulcha, Prawn Tempura, and Kolmi No Patio, paired with expertly crafted cocktails and freshly brewed craft beers. Whether you're gathering for after-work drinks or weekend parties, Cal-On promises high-energy evenings with Insta-worthy corners and a buzzing atmosphere.
Address: Hyatt Centric Ballygunge, 17, Garcha 1st Ln, Dover Terrace, Ballygunge,Kolkata
Olterra presents "In Search of Bengal 2.0," a cocktail menu that celebrates the forgotten cultural and culinary heritage of West Bengal. Each drink is a tribute to Bengal's rich history, from the Himalayas of Kalimpong to the mangroves of Sundarbans. Signature cocktails include 7th Mile, blending Patrón Silver Tequila with Kalimpong cheese and Gundruk, capturing the spirit of Kalimpong. Cossimbazar reimagines the royal Chhanabora with Aberfeldy 12 Scotch, peanut butter, and black cardamom. Falls & Tribes pays homage to Purulia’s indigenous wisdom with Lal Kudrum and Pipplash leaf, while Tales of Mangrove brings the wilderness of Sundarbans to life with Bombay Sapphire Gin and mangrove honey. Each sip is a journey into Bengal's timeless traditions and flavours.
Address: 1, Sir William Jones Sarani, near Times collection, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
The Rainwater conservation themed pandal in Salt Lake's AK block (Kolkata's eastern neighbourhood) is a huge draw this year. And if you are looking to escape the crowd, then head to this brand new artisanal café and bakery which is offering a diverse spread of dishes. To mark its two-year anniversary, Pinkk Sugars has a bold new menu that goes beyond its signature artisanal desserts and shakes. New offerings include Chinese favourites like Hakka Noodles, Veg Momos, and Bao, alongside trendy dishes like Croffles, Freak Shakes, and Mexican Cheese-y Loaded Fries. While expanding into savoury delights, the focus on desserts remains strong with new treats like the Nutella Crookie and Sizzling Brownie.
Address: AD-37, AD Block Sector 1, Biddhannagar (Salt Lake), Kolkata 700064 tel
For those who want to start early for pandal hopping in south Kolkata, then head to this quaint café in a restored heritage building which opens at 8am. Apart from their breakfast platters, you may also try the Cottage Cheese Steak in Cilantro Sauce served with Garlic Herb Rice & Veggies, NZ Lamb Chop, Tempura Prawn, Spinach Crostini, etc.
Address: 92, Sarat Bose Rd, Hazra, Kolkata 700026
This insta-friendly restaurant has many dishes on offer. But go for their combo offers, which include Fulko Luchi (Bengal's own version of the "puri") Combo, Maach (fish) Combo, etc.
Address: 8B, Maharaj Nanda Kumar Rd, Lake Market, Kalighat, Kolkata 700029
An instant hit with the millennials no sooner than it opened its doors, it offers vibrant interiors, trendy music and a long list of food and drinks. This pujo, you may try immerse yourself in their special festive menu. Savour the rich, authentic flavours of Bengal with highlights like the Pokchoy Wrapped Steamed Shorshe Bhetki (a must-try), Darjeeling Pork Momo, and the delectable Mango Coconut Tres Leches, along with many more curated delicacies. Celebrate the season with a delightful culinary experience.
Address: Warehouse Café, 4th Floor, South City Mall
Note: The timings of the cafes and restaurants vary from normal days many remain well into the night. To save time, check if the restaurant of your choice is accepting advance reservation.