Kolkata is a melting pot of different culinary cultures and superlative food. Eater, the award-winning media brand dedicated to food which publishes a list of the world's best culinary destinations every year, featured Kolkata in their 2023 list. Known for having one of the richest street food cultures in India, Kolkata is a treasure trove for gastronomes from around the world. The culinary scene reflects the melting pot influences of various cultures, from the British and Mughal eras to regional cuisines. During the holy month of Ramadan, Kolkata's restaurants serve delectable dishes. One of the most sought after dishes is haleem, a mixture of mutton, lentils, wheat, and spices that cooks for hours. Here is a curated list of the best places to try the best haleem in Kolkata.
Aminia is a renowned restaurant brand that has been operating since 1929 and is one of the oldest in the city. They are famous for their special haleem with its roots in Arabic cuisine. They offer two versions of the dish, with chicken and mutton. You can visit any of their branches located in and around Kolkata, such as New Market, Golpark, Hatibagan, Barrackpore, Serampore, and more.
Address: 6A, SN Banerjee Road, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700087
Among the restaurants on Bentinck Street near Esplanade, New Aliah stands out for their delicious Awadhi style biryani. During Ramadan, they offer a light haleem that is full of flavour. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with their fluffy tandoori roti.
Address: 31, Bentinck St, Mission Row Extension, Esplanade, Chowringhee North, Lal Bazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700069
Kolkata has many eateries and culinary threads that make it a firm favourite with foodies. Of these, six made it to the inaugural ‘Ultimate Restaurant Ratings' recently launched by Culinary Culture which launched their ratings last year in the six cities of Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Goa. On the list was the legendary Royal Indian Hotel known for its mutton biryani and chaap. During the month of Ramadan, you can see people queued up outside some of their outlets waiting to savour their famous haleem.
Address: 24 A, Syed Amir Ali Ave, Lower Range, Park Circus, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017
The Arsalan chain is well-known for its biryani. During Ramadan, you will see huge handis of haleem outside, from 4 pm onwards. This cult favourite has several outlets, but their original Park Circus one is where you should go.
Address: 191, 7 Point, Marina Garden Court, Mother Teresa Sarani, Ballygunge, Kolkata