Kolkata, the capital city of the West Bengal state, is known for its rich culture and historic diversity. This metro, like most, has become home to so many peoples from so many parts of the country and abroad that the diversity is even evident in the restaurants that have been serving locals and visitors for decades.
The food is delicious and the cuisines and cooking styles are varied. If you are a food lover in this city then you have got it made; our list of 25 best places to eat in Kolkata is your weapon to tackle your culinary journey here.
Places to Eat in Kolkata: Street Food
1. Sharma Dhaba
Open all day long and into the night, Sharma Dhaba has become an icon in Kolkata. With a wide variety of veg and non-veg North Indian food available here at very affordable prices as well as super quick service, the place is a favorite amongst the party goers looking for some comfort food before calling it a night.
- Location: Ballygunge Circular Road
- Timings: 11.30 am to 12 am
- Price for two: Rs. 400
- Must try: Butter naan with chicken bharta
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2. Jabbrr Afghani
Hunger knows no time and if you happen to be out on the streets of Kolkata late at night, looking for something to eat after a night out partying or late at the office, then head down to Jabbrr Afghani at Salt Lake for some delectable midnight snacks. Kathi rolls, biryani, kebabs, tikkas and much more awaits you here, each item more delightful than the first. Try their rolls for a satisfying snack.
- Location: Salt Lake
- Timings: 12 pm to 1:30 am
- Price for two: Rs. 350
- Must try: Chicken and cheese tikka roll
3. Balwant Singh’s Eating House
A place that seems to never shut, Balwant Singh’s Eating House has been serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between for almost a century now. With shutters down only during the absolute dead of night, this hole in the wall restaurant is busy dishing out yummy set meals like paneer butter masala and unusual drinks such as Doodh Cola to hungry pedestrians at incredibly affordable rates.
- Location: Bhawanipur Gurudwara, Bhawanipur
- Timings: 6 am to 12 am
- Price for two: Rs. 300
- Must try: Doodh Cola and Paneer Butter Masala
4. Maharaja Chaat Centre
An extremely popular street food in Kolkata has got to be Chaat; every corner of the country seems to have their own variation of this nationally loved tea time snack and Kolkata is no exception. At Maharaja Chaat Centre line up along with the scores of people that visit every day and enjoy some of the best chaats this side of the country.
- Location: Lake Terrace, Ballygunge
- Timings: 4 pm to 10 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 100
- Must try: Phuchka and Churmur
5. Go Lebanese
As the name suggests, this little kiosk, dishing out some delicious and authentic Lebanese food has become such a hit that there are currently three branches in different parts of the city. Pocket-friendly, the place is known for its quick service too and as such has become a hit with office goers in the area as well as those out for an evening meal or late night snack; the one at Salt Lake is open till 3 am!
- Location: Salt Lake and Ajoy Nagar
- Timings: Noon to Midnight
- Price for two: Rs. 400
- Must try: Shawarma
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Places to Eat in Kolkata: Night Out
1. Someplace Else
Located within the luxurious Park Hotel, this is one place you have got to visit if you want experience nightlife in the city. Whether a visitor or local, if all you’re looking for is some great food, drinks and a party, then Someplace Else is exactly where you need to be. Live music and a wood finished interior makes the place inviting too. The continental food is delicious.
- Location: Park Street
- Timings: 4 pm to 12 am (2 am on weekends)
- Price for two: Rs. 2600 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Pork chops
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2. UG Reincarnate
This modern pub with funky lights and decor is the perfect place to hang out and munch on some delicious food. The menu is an interesting combination of snack foods from various cuisines. We recommend the Indian Chinese finger foods – perfect pairings to cold beers or cocktails.
- Location: AJC Bose Road, Elgin
- Timings: 6 pm to 12 am (2 am on weekends)
- Price for two: Rs. 2200 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Manchurian Lollipops
3. Jam House
A somewhat new addition to the nightlife in Kolkata, Jam House is one of those places that is not only a cool and fun hang out but also serves some excellent food. With a huge menu crossing continents and cultures (Mexican, Italian, Indian, Chinese, Continental, Mediterranean ), this restaurant is ideal for groups with varied tastes or wanting to try new and exciting cuisines.
- Location: AJC Bose Road, Chowringhee
- Timings: 10:30 am to 11 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 800
- Must try: Falafel Wrap
4. Kung Pao
With two outlets in the city, you know this place is offering something that people in Kolkata want – good food; so you’re looking to satisfy your craving for oriental cuisine, head down to one of Kung Paos Chinese restaurants and enjoy not only the Indianized versions of Chinese classics that we all are accustomed to and love but also some very authentic preparations and Thai food too.
- Location: Salt Lake and Jodhpur Park
- Timings: 11 am to 11 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 500
- Must try: Steamed momos, green Thai curry
5. Fung Shway
With plenty of Asian restaurants in the city, the fact that Japanese food too is served here at Fung Shway, is what sets this restaurant apart from the others. With probably the best and most affordable Sushi, Sashimi, Miso and much more from their Japanese selections, they also offer a host of other pan Asian dishes. A great place for a get together, the vibe too is very Asian and as such warm and welcoming.
- Location: Meghnad Saha Sarani, Southern Avenue
- Timings: Noon to 1130 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 1400 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Tempura, Sushi
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Places to Eat in Kolkata: Buffet
1. Barbeque Nation
With branches all over the country and three in Kolkata itself, Barbecue Nation is doing what they do right. A meat lovers paradise, the place does have vegetarian fare as well but this not what everyone is here for. Succulent kebabs, delicious BBQ, grilled meat and much more is on the menu but if you really want to experience it all then be sure to try the buffet; great taste and variety will satisfy even the most voracious meat eater.
- Location: Salt Lake, Park Street, Nagerbazar
- Timings: 12 pm to 2:45 pm, 6:30 pm to 10:45 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 1400
- Must try: BBQ chicken wings
2. 6 Ballygunge Place
Borrowing its name from the location it stands in, this little restaurant needs no introduction as it is a well-known establishment in Kolkata for years. Serving a Thali style meal, this Bengali buffet is a must try for anyone in the city. With such deliciously authentic Bengali starters and main courses, be sure to save room for the most awesome desserts Bengal has to offer.
- Location: BallygungeTimings: 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm, 7 pm to 10:30 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 1000
- Must try: Bhetki Fish Fry
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3. Capella
This terrace restaurant is not only offering an ultimate view of the city but also has an awesome multi cuisine menu – Italian, Asian, Continental, Mediterranean and Mexican. With a lunch buffet every day and a brunch buffet on Sundays, the rooftop restaurant is a popular place for casual get together and enjoying lazy afternoons. The bar is open all days except Mondays and Thursdays.
- Location: EM 4, Sector 5
- Timings: 12:30 pm to 3 pm, 7 pm to 12 am
- Price for two: Rs. 1600 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Gnocchi Mushroom
4. Rajdhani
An institution all over the country, Rajdhani is now the best known place for Thali, an Indian style buffet that is served to you right at your table. The unbelievable variety that is packed into this one meal can be overwhelming, especially with the service being so attentive and encouraging to have just some more not to mention the indiscriminate ladling of ghee over everything; heaven!
- Location: Park Street Area
- Timings: 12 pm to 3:30 pm and 7 pm to 11 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 900
- Must try: Special Thali
5. We Desi
An unusual name suggesting just one thing – Indian food; and that is probably good enough considering the delicious North and South Indian delicacies you can have here. The North Indian preparations are no doubt divine but if you can handle a little bit of spice then be sure to explore the South Indian menu. Both veg and non-veg delicacies that are authentic, awesome and can be found on the buffet table as well for a wider experience.
- Location: Camac Street
- Timings: 12 pm to 3 pm, 6:30 to 12 am
- Price for two: Rs. 1600 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Kolkata Doi Machi
Places to Eat in Kolkata: Fine Dining
1. J W Kitchen
J W Kitchen serves up an excellent Saturday and Sunday brunch menu. They specialise in North Indian, Mediterranean, Continental and Thai food. With impeccable service, ambiance and of course, an amazing multi cuisine menu, the restaurant does not disappoint on a single front.
- Location: Haldane Avenue, Science City Area
- Timings: 24 hours
- Price for two: Rs. 4500 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Saturday and Sunday brunch
2. Yauatcha
One of the best known pan Asian restaurants in the city, Yauatcha has made a name for itself in most of the nation’s metros too. Serving expertly prepared dishes that look too pretty to eat, once tried you will not be able to resist. The ambiance, service and absolutely mouthwatering aromas in this restaurant will give you a culinary experience like no other.
- Location: Syed Amir Ali Avenue, Ballygunge
- Timings: 12 pm to 11:30 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 3000 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Dim Sum, Lychee Martini
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3. Serafina
Don’t let the fact that this popular restaurant is located in a mall discourage you from trying out some of the most authentic and delicious Italian food in the city. From the moment you step in, the restaurants Italian Café style décor and open kitchen will transport you out of Kolkata. Freshly prepared pizzas, pastas and salads is what Serafina is mostly known for but be sure to indulge in some delicious cocktails as well.
- Location: Quest Mall, Ballygunge
- Timings: 12 pm to 11:30 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 2500 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Thin crust margherita, ravioli
4. Sonar Tori
Although you can find great Bengali food all over the city, if you want your experience to be a bit more decadent, then Sonar Tori is the place to head to. This fine dining restaurant in the Salt Lake area of Kolkata has been dishing out amazing food and is surprisingly not as hard on the wallet. Try the Machar Paturi and the desserts. Décor that is regal and traditional give a sense of opulence and the great service only compliments the cooking.
- Location: Sector 1, Salt Lake
- Timings: 12 pm to 3:30 pm, 7 pm to 11 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 900
- Must try: Machar Paturi, ALL the desserts
5. Souk
Souk is easily one of the top restaurants for Arabic cuisine in the city. The fine dining experience along with the authentic Mediterranean dishes makes for an awesome experience. With a full bar menu as well as traditional Arabic desserts be sure to check out this place the next time you’re in the mood for some Shawarma or Baklava.
- Location: Belvedere Road, Alipore
- Timings: 12:30 pm to 3:45 pm, 7:30 pm to 11:45 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 4000 (with alcohol)
- Must try: Hummus Bil Lahm, Baklava, Mixed Grill
Places to Eat in Kolkata: Dessert
1. Glace Patisserie
When you walk into a place and all they have is dessert, you know that they have only one plan for you and that is to satisfy your sugar craving. fortunately Glace Patisserie is one of those places and one look at the huge choice on the menu will leave you with a sugar rush in anticipation. Head here with group to try out the plethora of cakes, pastries and other delights.
- Location: Bondel Road, Ballygunge
- Timings: 11 am to 9 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 450
- Must try: Éclair, Cheesecake
2. Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick Sweets
With six outlets within the city itself, this is one place that knows its Bengali sweets. Delicious Sandesh, Gulab Jamun, Radhaballavi, Soufflé, Mishti Doi, Aam Doi and many more delectable delights will have you coming back again and again. An ideal end to a night out with friends and family, Balaram Mullick and Radharaman Mullick Sweets is a family run business and accordingly has that taste and touch.
- Location: Bhawanipur, Park Street, Kasba, Ballygunge, Prince Anwar Shah Road, Rajadanga
- Timings: 10 am to 10 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 300
- Must try: Mishti Doi
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3. Mama Mia!
One of the city’s more popular ice cream franchises, Mama Mia! has been around for some years now and has quite a few outlets around Kolkata. With an assortment of ice creams, sundaes, milkshakes, ice cream cakes and more, the place is a virtual paradise dairy lovers. Open all day, every day, be sure to drop in if you happen to see their sign.
- Location: Ballygunge, Salt Lake, New Alipore, Nagerbazar, Chinar Park, Southern Avenue
- Timings: 11 am to 11 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 350
- Must try: Belgian Chocolate, Sundaes
4. The Belgian Bakery
Easily one of the more dessert oriented bakeries in town, this place is a well-known and popular hangout for dessert lovers. An awesome variety of pastries, mousses, cakes along with specials using seasonal fruit makes this one place you do not want to give a miss. A selection of breads and cookies is also available.
- Location: EM Bypass, Kankurgachi
- Timings: 12 pm to 10 pm
- Price for two: Rs. 400
- Must try: Tiramisu, Caramel Chocolate Tart
5. Kulfiano
Kulfi, an Indian ice cream, made with fresh dairy ingredients, flavored with spices and dry fruits, is a local favorite in Kolkata and Kulfiano, is one place dedicated to this delicious dessert. With a number of outlets all over the city, you are sure to bump into one of their kiosks in a mall or near a shopping centre. Be sure to stop for a minute and try their Kulfi; you will be happy you did.
- Location: Salt Lake, Chinar Park, Bahwanipur, Ballygunge
- Timings: 1130 am to 12 am
- Price for two: Rs. 200
- Must try: Kesar Pista, Paan Kulfi
With so much choice all around and our list to help you on your food trip in the city, you can be sure to have a new experience the next 25 times you head out for a bite. What are your favourite places to eat in Kolkata? Do let us know in the comments section.
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