After a long wait, it is finally that time of the year when the sound of celebration takes over taking over the hustle and bustle of busy lives. We all know that Pujo isn’t just a festival, it’s an emotion that is hard to put into words. The festival’s grandeur has reached the Pro Max level (Yep iPhone lovers, we know you understand that one) to the point that it was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2021, and deservingly so. The grand celebration spans almost 8 days of celebrations. The city is decked out with twinkling lights, colourful and artistic displays, and fun fairs. It’s quite safe to say that business is at its peak during this auspicious period, case in point, Durga Puja’s total economic representation in 2023 was worth a whopping $50,000 crores
Durga Puja Restaurant Guide
Durga Puja is undeniably a time where calorie checks or restrictions are reduced to mere formality as we gear up to celebrate in grandeur. Wondering how to get your feat on? Check out our curated list of fantastic restaurants where you can experience the festival of delicacies in all its glory. You can thank us later.
Aminia
Aminia
From satisfying your Ashtami evening hunger to enjoying a family Awadhi dinner this Dashami, Aminia if your go-to destination for Mughlai cravings. This puja, take a delicious detour to Aminia and treat yourself to their legendary dishes with friends and family. Begin your culinary adventure with their famous Chicken or Mutton Biryani—an iconic favorite that never disappoints—looking for a change from Biriyani? Dig into the mouthwatering Aminia Special Mutton Curry, Chicken Chaap, or the irresistible Chicken or Mutton Rezala and Pasinda Kebab. End your flavourful journey on a sweet note, with the Shahi Firni—a rich blend of rice, milk, and saffron, the perfect ending to your Pujo feast.
Warehouse Cafe
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Get set to enjoy the authentic and bold flavours of Bengal, featuring dishes like the Pokchoy Wrapped Steamed Shorshe Bhetki, Darjeeling Pork Momo, and the Mango Coconut Tres Leches – and this is only the beginning. Warehouse cafe is ready to light up your pujo with their incredible menu and delightful cocktails. Wrap up your pandal hopping and head over to Warehouse Cafe your party shoes on.
Cal-On, Hyatt Centric
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Catch the dazzling cityscape vibrating with the festive joy, from Kolkata’s newest rooftop hangout—Cal-On. The sprawling 5,000 sq. ft. rooftop arena is the ideal location for dining, socializing, and celebrating in style. In addition to its stunning view and glamorous ambiance, what sets Cal-on apart is its irresistible combination of street-style snacks and global flavours. Must-haves include Blue Cheese Kulcha, Prawn Tempura, and Kolmi No Patio, all of which are pair perfectly with craft cocktails and freshly brewed beers. This festive season, when near Ballygunge, make sure to head to Cal-on for an evening to remember.
Drunken Teddy
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Durga puja is incomplete without a big Bengali spread and Drunken Teddy is ready to deliver on that. Indulge in traditional favourites like Aam Ada Paneer Tikka, Dhaniya Kancha Lonka Chicken Tikka and the classic Fish Paturi. Do not miss on the wholesome Luchi-Mutton platter, served alongside many more festive delights and of course do not forget to indulge in their cocktails.
Lord Of The Drinks
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Crank up the festive vibes with Lord of the Drinks’ tantalizing blends and concoctions that fuse divine flavours creating swigs that compliment their irresistible dishes. Kick off your culinary adventure with poha-crusted chicken paired with raw mango chili salsa, followed by the pokchoy-wrapped gondhoraj steamed chicken, tangra-style garlic chili crab and more. Complete your course with Rasmalai crème brûlée – a pure indulgence and of course, keep the cocktails coming.
Yauatcha
Yauatcha, the Michelin starred dim sum tea house has come up with a Durga puja exclusive menu that blends the soul of Bengal’s festive flavours with their signature modern Cantonese cuisine. Set your delicious journey in motion with their Chicken and Prawn XO Dumpling—or indulge in the Truffle and Cream Cheese Dumpling, a creamy delight spiced with just the right touch of king chili. Do not forget to try the tender Lamb Chops in Hunan Sauce, that is wok-tossed with caramelized onions and creamy edamame paste. Round off your meal with San Sebastian cheesecake.
Olterra
With every sip uncover the hidden cultural and culinary treasures of West Bengal at Olterra’s with their “In Search of Bengal 2.0” cocktail menu. From the misty peaks of Kalimpong to the wild mangroves of the Sundarbans, each cocktail is a vibrant tribute to Bengal’s rich history and is rather fascinating. Take a swig of the signature cocktail “7th Mile,” which is a bold mix of Patrón Silver Tequila, Kalimpong cheese, and Gundruk, and feel the essence of the hills. Experience the royal twist of “Cossimbazar,” where Aberfeldy 12 Scotch meets Chhanabora, peanut butter, and black cardamom. Flow with the “Falls & Tribes” to immerse in Purulia’s indigenous essence of Lal Kudrum and Pipplash leaf. The “Tales of Mangrove” take you deep into the wilderness with Bombay Sapphire Gin and mangrove honey. Take a trip down rural Bengal with their creative cocktails this pujo.
Park Street SOCIAL
Park Street SOCIAL is set to light up Kolkata’s celebrations with their exclusive Durga Puja Thali Menu, that you can share with friends and family. We recommend the regal Social Mahotsav Thali, that features a lavish spread of Kolkata Mutton Biryani, Tandoori Prawn, Kadai Chicken, and more. There’s also a Desi Chicken and Desi Mutton Thali, both of which are brimming with mouthwatering delights. Incase you want to indulge in Asian cuisine, dig into the Chinese Thali, which include dishes like Chilli Chicken, Butter Garlic Prawn, and crispy spring rolls. We love! Pop by Socials this pujo to make the most of the food fiesta.
Images: Brands respectively
