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Kolkata’s proximity to the Bay of Bengal and the abundant availability of fresh fish have deeply shaped its food culture, making seafood an essential and cherished part of Bengali cuisine. Interestingly, even Brahmins, traditionally adhering to a strict vegetarian diet, were drawn to the irresistible flavours of Bengal’s freshwater fish and succumbed to temptation. This cultural change has led to the creation and inclusion of a variety of Bengali seafood dishes in the daily diets of Bengalis.
In Kolkata, fish markets are everywhere, offering a selection of fresh catches. These markets not only reflect the city’s love for seafood but also serve as vital hubs of local commerce and community interaction. Sundays in Kolkata are incomplete without the quintessential mangsho bhaat (mutton curry with rice). Alongside this beloved dish, seafood plays a crucial role, with favourites like Bhapa Ilish (steamed Hilsa) and Chingri Malai Curry (prawn curry with coconut milk) delighting palates across the city. The variety of seafood available, from prawns and crabs to a diverse range of fish species like rohu and bhetki, showcases the dynamism and rich flavours of Bengali-style cooking.
Here are a few restaurants in Kolkata that Things2Do recommends for seafood lovers:
1Santa’s Fantasea
Image Credit: Tripadvisor
Santa’s Fantasea is truly unique with its tribal decor and a menu that blends tribal cuisine with a wide variety of seafood. One of their standout dishes is Bnaash Pora Chicken, where chicken is marinated and cooked inside a bamboo stem. Their Bamboo Biryani is also a hit. For seafood lovers, this place offers delights like Tandoori Octopus, Squids in Oyster sauce, Squid Ink Risotto, and other exotic fish dishes. The interior, decorated with tribal wall paintings and ocean-themed colours, gives you the feeling of being under the sea. The food quality is top-notch, and with two branches, Santa’s Fantasea is a must-visit for anyone who loves great seafood with a tribal twist.
₹1,300 for two people (approx.)
26 Ballygunge Place
Image Credit: KolkataFusion
If you’re in Kolkata, you should definitely treat yourself to an authentic Bengali food experience. Bengali cuisine is a delicious mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, with fish being the star. One of the top spots to try is 6 Ballygunge Place, famous for its exotic fish dishes like Bhetki Paturi and Daab Chingri. They also offer popular buffets and Thalis, which include a variety of Bengali dishes like Shukto, Dhoka Dalna, Luchi, and Aloo Dum. The interior of 6 Ballygunge Place has an old-world charm, making you feel like you’re in a grand Bengali palace. It also captures the festive spirit of Durga Puja. With six outlets across the city, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the full Bengali experience, both in terms of food and atmosphere.
₹1,000 for two people (approx.)
3Mocambo
Image Credit: Zomato
If you’re looking for seafood with a continental twist, Mocambo on Park Street is a legendary spot. This restaurant has been serving up continental cuisine for six decades, and the mellow ambience adds to its charm. Must-try dishes include Prawn Cocktail, Lobster Thermidor, Devilled Crab, Fish Diana, and Fish Florentine. They are also famous for their Chicken A la Kiev, steaks, and sizzlers. Don’t miss their Baked Alaska for dessert, a famous treat. Mocambo exudes an iconic vibe and offers a taste of European glamour right in the heart of Kolkata.
₹1,000 for two people (approx.)
4Kasturi
Image Credit: Zomato
Kolkata’s flavours have been greatly influenced by East Bengal, reflecting the shared cultural and culinary heritage from before the partition. Kasturi is a fantastic place to experience this, as it specializes in East Bengal, now Bangladeshi, cuisine. Their iconic dishes like Kochu Pata Chingri, Chingri Malai Curry, and Crab Masala are absolutely mouth-watering. The menu also features dishes like Bhetki Bhapa and their iconic Morog Pulao, another beloved Bengali dish. You can enjoy their Bengali thalis, which includes an assortment of famous vegetarian items and fish dishes of your choice. They are also renowned for their Basanti Pulao and Mutton Dak Bungalow, alongside popular vegetarian options like Aloo Posto, Begun Bhaja, and Cholar Dal. With several outlets, Kasturi lives up to its hype, providing a food journey that’s totally worth it.
₹350 for two people (approx.)
5Mitra Cafe
Image Credit: Mitra Cafe
Mitra Cafe, an iconic spot that began as a humble cabin, has evolved into a charming cafe serving delicious food for more than a century. They now have outlets in Puri and Digha, besides their Kolkata locations, and they source their fish fresh from the Bay of Bengal. If you’re looking for authentic Bengali fish dishes, Mitra Cafe is a must-visit. Known for its legendary Diamond Fish Fry, Fish Kobiraji, and Bhetki Tandoor, it also serves other beloved dishes like mutton kabiraji, brain chop, and mutton cutlet. Over the years, they’ve introduced Thalis and also have ala carte items consisting items of crabs, octopus, squid, and their famous Balti Bhetki. Whether you’re in the mood for a lavish Bengali lunch with seafood or tasty evening snacks like fish fry, Mitra Cafe offers a delightful dining experience with a blend of old-world charm and modern flair.
₹ 450 Price for two
6Fish Fish
Image Credit: Times Travel
It’s a no-brainer that fish plays a central role in the Bengali diet, and if you’re looking for a restaurant that focuses solely on fish, then Fish Fish is the perfect place for you. The name is quite catchy, as it not only translates to fish but also refers to the Bengali word for whisper – phish-phish. Start your meal with Gauntharaj Ghol, a refreshing drink, then move on to a bowl of Seafood Mee Bakshi Soup. For appetizers, try the Chittal Macher Sheekh Kabab, moving away from the traditional mutton or chicken kebabs. Their Seafood Platter is a must-try, along with items like Lote Macher Bora made from Bombay Duck and the famous Pomfret Fry. If you’re in the mood for something different, the Kalamari Battered Fry and Battered Topshe Fry are excellent choices. Tandoori Fish is also a standout. For the main course, don’t miss the Koi Aam Kasundi or Chingri Macher Bas Paturi, the latter being prawns cooked in bamboo stems. Ilish Macher Pata Bora, cooked and served inside a leaf wrap, is another unique dish. End your meal with Nolen Gurer Ice Cream or any other dessert of your choice. Fish Fish puts a great twist on authentic recipes, making it a spot you’ll want to return to again and again.
Cost for two: ₹500
Therefore, Bengali cuisine is a blend of influences from geography, historical struggles like famines, and the lasting impact of colonial rule. These factors have shaped not only the taste and ingredients but also the cultural significance of Bengali food. Kolkata, with its rich seafood dishes influenced by its coastal location and its ability to adapt during tough times, showcases a culinary tradition that is both resilient and vibrant. For anyone who loves seafood, Kolkata is truly the best place to explore and enjoy a diverse range of flavours straight from the Bay of Bengal.
If you’re looking to gorge on amazing Kolkata street food, read Top 9 Street Foods to Try in Kolkata.
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