Top 5 Local Street Food That You Must Try In Kolkata

While talking about Kolkata being the melting pot of culture, heritage and modernity, one cannot forgo the street food experience that has evolved over time with the intermingling of various communities over the years. As you wander through Kolkata’s vibrant alleys, the smell of delicious kachoris wafting from small stalls will tempt you to start your day with a flavorful breakfast. As the aroma of biryani hits your nose, your hunger will howl you to indulge in a hefty Biryani lunch with a side of kebabs. By sunset, you can enjoy Jhalmuri by the Ganges, and wrap up your day with some mouthwatering Mishti. This culinary experience will surely make you want to return for more, proving why Kolkata has some of the best street food in India.

So next time you’re in Kolkata, here are the five best street foods that Things2do recommends:

1Phuchka

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Phuchka, known as gupchup or pani puri in other parts of India, holds a special place in West Bengal and particularly in Kolkata, where it transcends being just a snack to become a cultural phenomenon. From children eagerly pulling their mothers towards the local “Parras” to witnessing Phuchkawalas skillfully preparing these delights, every bite is filled with anticipation. The experience begins with a crisp shell bursting with a spicy blend of mashed potatoes and tamarind water infused with robust spices and the refreshing essence of gondhoraj lemon. After enjoying the tangy and spicy flavours, locals often seek a “Sookha,” a dry version of Phuchka that allows every flavour note to be savoured fully. For the ultimate Phuchka adventure, visit iconic spots like Vivekananda Park, New Market, and Southern Avenue, where skilled vendors amidst vibrant street atmospheres serve up these renowned spicy treats that Kolkata is celebrated for.

2Kachori

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Kachori is a beloved breakfast choice among Bengalis, drawing office-goers and college students alike to bustling joints across Kolkata. It holds a nostalgic charm, often evoking childhood memories, especially during leisurely Sunday breakfasts. These crispy, golden-brown delights are typically served with a side of alu dom or cholar dal, enhancing their savoury appeal. For a memorable experience, visit renowned spots like Putiram in College Street, known not only for their delectable kachoris but also for their exceptional sweets, perfect for ending your meal on a sweet note.

3Ghughni Chaat

Image Credit: Get Bengal

Ghugni is a flavorful street food in Kolkata, renowned for its simplicity and deliciousness. It consists of curried whole-yellow peas or motor (matar) dal, served hot with freshly chopped ginger and green chillies on top. Traditionally a vegan dish, ghugni in Kolkata also comes in non-vegetarian variations, incorporating egg, chicken, or minced mutton alongside the dried peas. It’s a popular evening snack enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, offering a perfect blend of savoury flavours and textures. You can find the best Ghugni Chaat at College Street and Dacres Lane.

4Jhaalmuri

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Jhalmuri holds a special place in Kolkata’s street food scene, akin to Mumbai’s Bhel. Although it has been a staple in Kolkata for a long time, its popularity surged globally when British chef Angus Denoon discovered and began selling it on the streets of London. This dry snack is ideal for munching while walking or travelling. To prepare jhalmuri, vendors typically start with a metal can, adding puffed rice, lentils, roasted peanuts, and other crunchy ingredients. They then mix in coriander, onions, fresh chopped chillies, a splash of fragrant mustard oil, a squeeze of lime juice, and a dash of masala powder, stirring everything together with a stick for an authentic taste experience. While jhalmuri can be found throughout Kolkata, exploring the lanes of North Kolkata, such as College Square, Hati Bagan near Bethune College and Scottish Church College near Hedua, and the area between Shyam Bazaar and Bagh Bazar, offers a particularly rich experience.

5Mishti

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Kolkata is renowned for its sweets, from the iconic Rasogolla to seasonal delights like Nolen Gurer Sandesh and much more. For true Bengalis, no meal is complete without indulging in these delectable treats. The tradition of starting any cultural event with a sweet exchange, known as “mishti mukh,” underscores the importance of sweets in Bengali culture. On Dashami, the last day of Durga Puja, offering and sharing sweets (mishti) symbolizes seeking blessings and fostering familial ties. Most sweets in Kolkata are based on chhana or paneer, and are airy, crafted by gently kneading paneer with powdered sugar until it reaches a creamy consistency. O savor the best of Kolkata’s sweets, head over to renowned establishments like K.C. Das, Balaram and Radharaman Mallick in Kolkata, and Surjyo Modak in Chandannagar.

The street food experience in Kolkata embodies a communal experience where strangers become friends over shared meals and a cup of chai. Stories unfold, languages intertwine, and traditions are celebrated, amidst the bustling markets of Kolkata as these local street food joints become the vibrant hubs of human connection, where every bite tells a tale and every gathering enriches the fabric of the community. Therefore, it’s no surprise that Kolkata stands out as the sole Indian city listed among the world’s top food destinations for 2023 by the acclaimed media platform Eater.

So, next time you visit Kolkata, partake in a timeless tradition of shared joy and camaraderie by indulging in these street foods.

If you’re looking for weekend bike trips from Kolkata, find more at Top 9 Destinations for Monsoon Bike Trips from Kolkata.