Durga Puja transforms Kolkata into a city that celebrates with all its senses, and the dining table is very much part of the ritual. Between pandal-hopping, late-night adda and reunions with family and friends, the festive calendar offers every excuse to eat well. This year, the city’s restaurants are serving up everything from traditional Bengali feasts and royal Awadhi specialities to Calcutta-style Chinese, contemporary interpretations of regional classics and inventive cocktails. Whether you’re planning a leisurely family lunch, a celebratory dinner or a late-night stop after exploring the pandals, these 15 Kolkata restaurants offer plenty of inspiration for eating your way through Pujo.
Alfresco, The LaLiT Great Eastern
At one of Kolkata’s most storied addresses, Durga Puja unfolds with a generous helping of Bengali nostalgia. The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata marks the season with Shubho Pujo, Shubho Bhoj, an elaborate buffet from 16 to 21 October, featuring regional specialities, interactive food stations and traditional desserts. The celebrations begin earlier with Mahalaya Morning at Alfresco on 10 October, where a traditional breakfast of luchi, cholar dal, chirer pulao and gurer payesh sets the tone for the festivities. The lunch and dinner buffets start at ₹2,599 per person, while a special midnight buffet, available from 17 to 20 October between 12.30 am and 3 am, starts at ₹1,399 per person. For those looking to turn the occasion into a family getaway, the hotel’s Agomonir Shure, Pujor Anonde package combines accommodation, breakfast and a festive Mahabhoj for two, with rates starting at ₹12,500 for double occupancy.
Nymerah
For a different perspective on Kolkata’s festive frenzy, Nymerah offers a rooftop setting with sweeping views of the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the city skyline. Arrive around sunset for cocktails as the city transitions into evening, or settle in for a longer dinner as the atmosphere grows livelier after dark. The globally inspired menu moves from Mediterranean mezze, dim sum and sushi to brown butter scallops, miso black cod and wood-fired pizzas. Signature cocktails, identified by numbers rather than conventional names, add an element of intrigue to the experience. With dramatic interiors and panoramic city views, Nymerah makes a compelling stop for those looking to trade the crowds below for an evening above the city.
14PM
When the Pujo itinerary calls for a more intimate interlude, 14PM brings inventive plates and cocktails to a stylish, monochromatic setting. The menu takes familiar flavours in unexpected directions, with highlights including Chorafali Nachos, Avocado Thecha Pani Puri (we recommend it; with your gang), Goat Biryani Arancini (this one’s a must-have; we loved it) and Curry Leaf Pesto Linguine (we loved the Malabar pepper variant, though). We also recommend the Butter Chicken Bombs. Behind the bar, Bubble Trouble, Just Paan, with its notes of paan and gulkand, and the tequila-led Desi Picante, featuring amla, coriander and green chilli, offer plenty of reason to linger. Equally suited to a cosy date night or an unhurried gathering over small plates, the restaurant offers a contemporary dining experience that feels pleasantly removed from the bustle of the streets.
Drip Culture Café & Bakery
Between pandal visits, long walks and the inevitable Pujo crowds, Drip Culture Café & Bakery in Ballygunge makes a welcome stop for coffee and something freshly baked. Its Scandinavian-inspired interiors, natural light and comfortable corners set the scene for a relaxed pause, while the all-day menu spans Continental, Asian, Western and Indian favourites. Coffee is the principal draw, particularly the signature IV Drip Coffee, inspired by the familiar medical drip setup, and the Spanish Latte, served with frozen espresso cubes that slowly melt into chilled milk. V60 pour-overs made with Chikmagalur beans sit alongside house-baked breads, artisanal pastries and desserts. Whether it is a quick caffeine fix or a leisurely afternoon break, Drip Culture offers a quieter counterpoint to the city’s festive energy.
Oudh 1590
A celebration of the regal kitchens of Awadh, Oudh 1590 brings its signature period-dining experience to the Durga Puja table with a special menu available across its outlets from 16 to 21 October. The selection traverses smoky kebabs, fragrant biryanis and slow-cooked curries, with dishes such as Mushroom Galawati Kebab, Murgh Galawati Kebab, Gosht Galawati Kebab, Lasooni Jheenga and Mahi Tikka setting the tone. For the main course, the Murgh Awadhi Handi Biryani and Oudh Special Raan Biryani promise a more indulgent affair, alongside classics such as Gosht Rogan Josh, Nihari Khaas and Awadhi Murgh Zafrani. Shahi Badam Halwa and Shahi Kheer bring the feast to a traditional close. Open from 11 am to 2 am during the festive period, Oudh 1590 offers a suitably lavish alternative to the city’s Bengali culinary traditions.
Chapter 2
For those who like their dining served with a generous dose of nostalgia, Chapter 2 brings retro charm to the festive season. The restaurant’s Durga Puja menu, available from 16 to 21 October, spans an expansive selection of international classics, from prawn cocktail, Caesar salad and cream of asparagus soup to chicken mini breast cutlets, bacon-wrapped prawns and an assortment of seafood preparations. The mains range from ham and salmon steaks to Bekti Florentine, Prawn Thermidor, Chicken Tetrazzini, Lamb Goulash and Pork Vindaloo. Desserts include caramel custard, cheesecake and tiramisu, with ice cream rounding off the meal. Complemented by music that evokes another era, the experience is an invitation to settle in, revisit familiar favourites and let the festivities unfold at an unhurried pace.
Chaudhury & Company
At Chaudhury & Company, the spirit of the Bengali pice hotel finds a more contemporary expression, with a festive buffet rooted in the comfort and abundance of home-style cooking. Available from 16 to 21 October at its Deshapriya Park address, the spread opens with Gondhoraj Ghol before moving through traditional accompaniments, crisp bhaja, luchi and fragrant rice preparations. The main course brings together Bengali favourites such as Dhokar Dalna, Dimer Devil, Chitol Macher Muithya and Galda Chingri Malai Curry, alongside Kacha Lanka Dhonepata Murgi and Morich Mangsho. Vegetarians can look forward to dishes including Mochar Malai Chop, Aloo Posto, Phulkopir Roast and Chhanar Kofta Curry. Khejur Aamsotto Chutney, papad and a selection of traditional sweets complete the feast, with paan providing the customary final note. It is a celebration of the Bengali table in all its comforting, generous glory.
Park Street SOCIAL
With SOCIAL PETPUJO, Park Street SOCIAL brings a playful, contemporary twist to festive feasting. Available from 10 to 21 October, the limited-period menu features five thaalis that move between Bengali favourites, hearty meat preparations and the distinctive flavours of Tangra-style Chinese cuisine. Ami Banglay Maach Khai brings together Bhetki Fish Fry, Tandoori Prawns and Fish Tikka Masala, while Mutton Amaro Porano Jaha Chaay features Chelo Kebab, Mutton Galouti, Fantastic Mutton and Dum Pukht Mutton Biryani. The chicken-focused Chicken Ashe Hridoyo Akashe offers Chicken Tikka, Dhaba Style Cooker Chicken and biryani. For a taste of Tangra, Ami Shudhu Je Tangra Chicken-er pairs Butter Garlic Pepper Chicken and Chilli Chicken with fried chicken and chicken momos, while Machh-e Machh-e Tangra Dekha Pai brings together pepper prawns, Tangra Chilli Fish and shrimp prawn momos. Designed for post-pandal adda and leisurely group meals, the thaalis bring plenty of variety to the table.
Master Jackie
Calcutta-style Chinese cuisine has long held a place in the city’s culinary imagination, and Master Jackie revisits that much-loved tradition with a special Durga Puja menu. The selection begins with vegetarian offerings such as Stir-Fried Water Chestnut in Chilli Plum Sauce, Stuffed Mushroom with Salt and Pepper, and wok-tossed snow peas, asparagus and water chestnuts. Non-vegetarian highlights include Fish in Chilli Mustard Sauce, prepared with Kolkata bhetki, and Indo Chilli Chicken. The mains continue with Aubergine in Hot Bean Sauce, Chinese Greens with Tofu and Edamame in Garlic Sauce, Sweet and Sour Fish, Taichin Chicken and Sliced Pork with Pak Choy. Smoked Chilly Noodles and Golden Aromatic Fried Rice round out the savoury selection, while Toffee Walnut with Vanilla Ice Cream provides a sweet finish. A Gondhoraj Basil Gin & Tonic and Gondhoraj Lemonade bring a distinctly local citrus note to the festivities.
Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata
At Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata, Shakti Rupe Rupe approaches Durga Puja through the people, traditions and everyday acts that make the festival possible. The initiative highlights the artisans of Kumartuli, dhakis, chefs, artists, and communities behind the celebrations, while drawing attention to the cultural rhythms of Ballygunge and its surrounding neighbourhoods. At YAYAvar, the culinary programme features distinct menus across Shashti, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami and Dashami, bringing together Bengali favourites, Indian, Asian and Western selections, live counters and an extensive dessert spread. The vegetarian Maha Bhoj features Mochar Ghonto, Echorer Dalna and Chanar Payesh, while the non-vegetarian selection includes Chingrir Chop, Chicken Chapli Kebab and Mutton Rezala. The Mahalaya Maha Bhoj Thalis offer another taste of tradition, with dishes ranging from Shukto, Aloo Posto and Basanti Pulao to Bhetki Paturi, Kosha Mangsho and Gurer Payesh. It celebrates Kolkata’s culinary heritage within a wider story of community and collective creativity.
Olive Café & Bar Kolkata
With ABAHON – A Modern Bangla Pujo Table, Chef Ashis Debnath reimagines Bengal’s culinary heritage through the contemporary lens of Olive Café & Bar Kolkata. The limited-edition menu brings regional ingredients and nostalgic flavours into conversation with global techniques, resulting in a distinctive selection of festive plates. Highlights include Laal Saag and Goat Cheese Borek, Posto Chicken Shish Touak, Chingri Mochar Gonto Bisteeya and Gondhoraj Chicken Pot Pie. Seafood takes an inventive turn with Paturi en Papillote and Chingri Malai Risotto, while Kosha Mutton Poi Pie offers a playful interpretation of a Bengali classic. For dessert, Gurer Payesh Brûlée, paired with Narikal Ice Cream, brings familiar flavours into a more contemporary register. The cocktail menu follows suit, with the Kasundi Sour, Betel Leaf Negroni and Misti Doi translating regional ingredients into imaginative pours. The result is a festive table that honours tradition without being bound by it.
Bonne Femme
Bonne Femme brings a contemporary global sensibility to the flavours of Bengal with a festive menu designed for leisurely lunches, family gatherings and post-pandal dining. The kitchen plays with familiar ingredients and regional favourites, offering combinations that are inventive without losing their connection to local culinary traditions. Among the highlights are Bhetki Chingri Roll, Fish Kochuri with Kucho Chingri Aloo Dom and Daab Chingri Paturi, alongside the more unexpected Bhuni Khichdi Keema Bolognese and Mutton Bao. Grilled Bhetki adds a simpler seafood option to the selection, while the cocktail programme draws on regional ingredients and nostalgic flavours. The Nolen Gur Whisky Sour, Jalpai Martini and Chalta Picante bring seasonal sweetness, fruit and spice into the mix. For those who enjoy their Pujo dining with a little experimentation, Bonne Femme offers an appealing meeting of Bengali comfort and contemporary culinary expression.
Yauatcha Kolkata
At Yauatcha Kolkata, Durga Puja takes a Cantonese turn, with a festive menu that combines intricate dim sum, wok-tossed specialities and elaborate desserts. Begin with the Exotic Vegetable Dumpling, Red Dragon Chicken Dumpling or the crisp, truffle-scented Crispy Truffle Edamame Roll before moving to mains such as Crispy Tofu with Kung Pao Sauce, Imperial Vegetable with Truffle Sauce and Crispy Fried Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce. Seafood features prominently in the River Prawn with Fragrant Sha Cha Sauce and other preparations featuring fish, while Smoked Chilly Noodles and Golden Aromatic Fried Rice round out the meal. The desserts are equally considered: Miel and Ginger with Honeycomb Ice Cream layers coffee sponge, honey mousse and ginger, while Tropical Harmony with Lemon Yoghurt Sorbet offers a brighter combination of mango, mascarpone and citrus. Festive cocktails such as Jasmine Halo, Mahalaya Reserve and Citrus Mirage, alongside zero-proof options including Sparkling Ruby and Subho Shobuj, complete the experience.
The Astor Kolkata
The Astor Kolkata celebrates Durga Puja with a Bengali buffet that draws on the richness of regional recipes and the nostalgia of festive meals shared across generations. Available from 15 to 21 October, beginning with Panchami dinner, the spread opens with refreshing Gondhoraj Doi-er Ghol and Kaffir Lime Pora Anarash-Ada’r Sorbot, followed by an array of appetisers including Mutton Pudina Seekh Kebab, Bhetki Macher Chop, Loitta Macher Pituli and Murshidabadi Paneer Ke Tikka. The main course features Bengali favourites such as Jamindari Mangsho Bhuna, Dhakai Kosha Chicken, Green Prawns Malai Curry, Shorshe Kancha Lonka Bhetki and Pabda Macher Tel Bori Jhal, alongside vegetarian preparations including Panch Mesali Tarkari, Chhenar Mohima and Hing Pora Aloor Dum. Mishti Pulao, Radha Ballavi and traditional accompaniments lead into a dessert selection of Chhenar Jelabi, Gondhoraj Sondesh, Laal Doi and Baked Mihidana. The buffet is priced at ₹1,799 per person or ₹2,799 with alcoholic beverages, offering a generous taste of Bengal’s festive table in a heritage setting.
Kwality
An enduring Park Street address, Kwality brings a broad selection of Indian and Asian favourites to its Durga Puja celebrations, beginning on 16 October. The menu moves between the smoky appeal of the tandoor and the familiar comforts of restaurant classics, with Tandoori Jhinga, Tandoori Pomfret, Mutton Boti Kebab and Fish Malai Kebab among the highlights. Chicken Onion Kebab and Chicken Chaap add further richness, while Chicken Reshmi Biryani offers a fragrant centre piece for the meal. For those drawn to Indo-Chinese flavours, Chilli Garlic Noodles, Butter Garlic Rice, Stir-Fried Vegetables, Tsing Hoi Potato and Fish Pepper Salt bring variety to the table. Prawn Tetrazzini adds an international note to the selection. With its established place in Kolkata’s dining landscape, Kwality offers a festive option for those who prefer a generous spread spanning familiar favourites and a mix of culinary influences.
Images: Brands respectively
