India is not just about the masalas. Even though the world knows the country's food for the spice-infused curries, travel and food guide Taste Atlas has recognised India for its delectable and diverse dessert options, with six names finding a mention in its "World's 150 most Legendary Dessert Places" list. From Pune to Kolkata, the list covers names you must have heard if you are a keen foodie. But if not, here are the top six the list covers and you must visit to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Kayani Bakery, Pune
This popular bakery, which started in 1955, finds itself on the 18th spot. Started by Irani brothers Hormazdiar and Rustom Kayani when they immigrated in search of better opportunities, the bakery has attained a cult status. The Mawa cake, Madeira cake, Shrewsbury biscuits and pound cake must be tried at this iconic joint.
Address: 6, Dr Coyaji Rd, Hulshur, Camp, Pune
K.C Das, Kolkata
On the 25th spot is Kolkata's all-time favourite sweet shop, which opened its doors all the way back in 1930. Folks believe Krishna Chandra Das's father, Nobin Chandra Das, created the rasgullas. That means, if you find yourself in the city of joy, head straight here for the softest rosogullas, among other Bengali favourites like mishti doi and chamcham.
Address: Main Outlet, 11A & B, Esplanade East, Kolkata
Flury's, Kolkata
It is no surprise that Kolkata features so many times in the list. Another iconic spot in the city that has taken up the 26th spot is Flury's, which has been serving patrons since 1927. Earlier a tea room for Britishers, Flury's is now a favourite breakfast spot among discerning foodies of Kolkata. And on Christmas, its nostalgic charm draws in thousands. Must try here is rum ball and the English breakfast.
Address: 18A, Mother Teresa Sarani, Park Street area, Kolkata
Karachi Bakery, Hyderabad
The house of Osmania Biscuits sits at the 29th spot. Begun in 1953, when Khanchand Ramnani migrated to the city from Karachi during partition, Karachi Bakery sticks ardently to its original flavour to this day. While it has become a household name in every city, with shops popping up across major metros, the original spot in Hyderabad's Mozamjahi Market still hits you with nostalgia.
Address: Shop No.5, Jambagh Rd, NH 44, Mozamjahi Market, Malakunta, Jam Bagh, Hyderabad
Balaram Mullik and Radharaman Mullick, Kolkata
This sweet shop on the 37th spot is another favourite among Kolkata residents. Started by Ganesh Chandra Mullick in 1885, this sweet shop also had revolutionaries Subhash Chandra Bose and Ashutosh Mukherjee walk in through the doors. While you can, and you should relish, all the classics, do try their baked rosogulla.
Address: 2, Paddapukur Rd, Jadubabur Bazar, Bhowanipore, Kolkata
K. Rustom & Co., Mumbai
Founded by Mr Khodabux Rustom Irani in 1953, this joint in South Mumbai is loved by all for its old-school churns and ice cream sandwiches. If you are in the maximum city, it is worth visiting this place that takes up the 49th spot, for every corner is soaked in nostalgia, and so are the flavours. While all of them are delicious, go for toffee crunch or good old chocolate.
Address: Brabourne Stadium, 86, Veer Nariman Rd, Churchgate, Mumbai
Meanwhile, the other joints mentioned are Kuremal's Kulfi (67) and Jalebi Wala (93) in Delhi, Prakash's Kulfi in Lucknow (77), and Chitale Bandhu in Pune (85).