There’s something magical about Poila Baisakh in Bengal—when the scent of gondhoraj lingers in the air and every bite of kosha mangsho feels like a warm hug. This year, we present the ultimate festive food guide to ensure you celebrate the Bengali New Year. The only way we know how: Deliciously. Whether you love lavish hotel buffets or intimate plated meals with a twist, here’s where to dig in this Noboborsho.
ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar
Mark the Bengali New Year with an unforgettable culinary experience steeped in tradition only at ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar. On April 13 and 15, the Grand Market Pavilion invites guests to indulge in a specially curated Poila Baisakh buffet, celebrating the rich gastronomic heritage and legacy of Bengal.
From delicacies like Bhetki Paturi and Chingri Malai Curry (such classics) to the comforting sweetness of Payesh and Sandesh, each dish is a tribute to age-old recipes passed down through generations. Meanwhile, Eden Pavilion on April 15 promises to offer a vibrant spread of Calcutta’s beloved classics—from Mangsher Chop and Fish Fry to Chicken in Chilly Bean Sauce—bringing the soul of the city to every plate. With elegant surroundings and thoughtfully crafted menus, ITC Hotels promises a celebration that’s as heartfelt as it is flavourful and nostalgic.
Also: Read our ITC Sonar Durga Puja feature here.
Hyatt Regency Kolkata
The iconic Waterside Cafe in Hyatt Regency invites you on a nostalgic journey through Bengal’s culinary heritage. The festive menu is a love letter to the city’s colonial past—recreating the ambience of a traditional Zamindarbari (we love the idea) with vintage décor and soul-soothing live music. Expect familiar favourites like Kalojeera diye Topse Fry, Postor Bora, and Mangshor Chop to transport you back in time, while the Chingri Malai Curry, Mutton Dakbanglow (say less), and the royal Nashipur Palacer Chanar Kofta add grandeur to the plate. It’s homestyle comfort elevated with elegance—exactly how Kolkata remembers.
Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences
The Square at Novotel (their ultimate go-to restaurant) is serving up a luxurious buffet (April 14–15) that combines Bengali nostalgia with modern finesse, and we aren’t complaining. Expect classics like Kosha Mangsho, Kolkata-style Chicken Biryani, and Gurer Roshosgolla—all under the watchful eye of Chef Vikram Jaiswal. General Manager Rajneesh Kumar emphasized the importance of the celebration: “At Novotel Kolkata, we believe in creating experiences that go beyond dining. Poila Baisakh is deeply rooted in tradition, and we are delighted to offer an event that combines culture, flavours, and hospitality. We look forward to welcoming guests for a grand start to the Bengali New Year.”
JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata
This Tuesday, 15th April, JW Kitchen at JW Marriott Kolkata invites you to ring in the Bengali New Year with warmth, flavour, and festive indulgence. Savour a specially curated feast that honours Bengal’s rich culinary legacy — from comforting classics to regional treasures. Highlights include Kacha Aamer Tok Dal, Aamer Chutney, Raw Mango Phal Curry, and a refreshing Raw Mango Salad Corner.
An immersive Pora (Roasted) and Bata (Ground) Station offers a taste of authenticity, while signature mains like Bhapa Machh, Kochi Pathar Jhol, and Maach Bhaja highlight the soul of traditional Bengali kitchens. End your meal on a sweet note with a decadent dessert spread featuring Roshogolla, Sitabhog, and Mihidana. A celebration that’s as nostalgic as it is luxurious.
Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata
Our favourite YAYAvar is going all in with a festive Sunday Brunch (April 13) and a buffet dinner (April 15) this Bengali New Year. From Chingri Malaikari to Katla Macher Kaliya, paired with desserts like Mishti Doi and Chanar Payash, the spread is nothing short of a Bengali love letter on a plate. Pop by this fun (and Gen Z coded) property to make your celebrations memorable.
We Also Recommend:
Bonne Femme
Order in your festive cheer with Bonne Femme’s Signature Baisakhi Platters, blending traditional Bengali mains with delightful fusion touches like Blueberry Mishti Doi and more. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available. [Order via Zomato or Swiggy] or just feel free to drop by.
Cafe X & Y
Want to break the monotony of traditional cuisine? Say less. We’re talking about comforting seafood, grilled meats, Truffle Mushroom Soup, and refreshing Gondhoraj Coolers at this cute spot across Alipore and Salt Lake, so take your pick. It’s the perfect urban Bengali brunch vibe without the fuss. Do not miss out on their desserts.
Yauatcha Kolkata
This Michelin-star Dimsum and Tea House is THE place to be if you are celebrating with panache. Modern Cantonese meets Bengali soul with specials like Gondhoraj Prawn Dumplings (our personal favourite) with a side of their Bhetki in Lemongrass Sauce (with the Spinach and Basil Noodles) and cocktails that riff on Kolkata’s Paan and mustard traditions. If we’re being honest, we loved the entire menu! A must for the flavour curious. Finish with the Golden Sunshine Gateau if you’re feeling summery.
Park Street SOCIAL
Park Street SOCIAL celebrates Noboborsho with a playful, offbeat tribute to the city’s culinary icons, as with all of their festivities. Their Calcutta Edit features an iconic Breakfast Tray, tangy Kasundi Bhetki, crispy Fish Fry Burgers, and the crowd-favourite Chalo Let’s Chelo (a reimagination of the classic chelo from our Peter Cat days). Hearty mains like Chicken A La Kiev and the ever-dependable Calcutta Biryani are a must. The perfect place for urban celebrators who love their culture with a dash of fun.
Warehouse Café
Warehouse Café in South City Mall is pulling out all the stops with a vibrant, festive menu. Kick off your meal with smoky Gondhoraj Malai Fish Tikka (our favourite), crunchy Bhetki Kabiraji, and the juicy Bhuna Mutton Spring Roll. The hero dish, Kosha Mangsho with Basanti Pulao, is rich, fragrant, and heartwarming. Vegetarians can dig into the tangy Aam Kasundi Paneer Tikka or the surprisingly meaty Pulled Jackfruit Tacos. End with the luscious Mango Coconut Tresleches because ‘mishti mukh‘ is key during the new year.
Images: Brands respectively
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Feast Your Way Through Kolkata’s Best Culinary Hotspots This Pujo
