Kolkata, the City of Joy, is renowned for its vibrant culture, historical charm, and most of all its iconic street food. From spicy to sweet, Kolkata offers a delightful range of flavors that reflect the city’s unique heritage and passion for food. Here are the top 5 street foods that you absolutely cannot miss when in Kolkata.
1. Kathi Roll
A quintessential Kolkata invention, the Kathi Roll originated at Nizam’s, a legendary eatery in the city. This roll features a paratha or flaky wrap stuffed with fillings like spiced chicken, mutton, or paneer, and garnished with onions, green chilies, and sauces. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, Kathi Rolls are the perfect on-the-go snack and are widely available throughout the city.
2. Phuchka
Known as Pani Puri or Golgappa in other parts of India, Phuchka is Kolkata’s take on this famous snack, and locals swear by it. Phuchka features a hollow, crisp puri filled with spicy, tangy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas. The unique combination of flavors, enhanced by the vendor’s special blend of spices, makes it a must-try dish.
3. Jhalmuri
A favorite snack that reflects Kolkata’s love for spicy flavors, Jhalmuri is a mix of puffed rice, peanuts, green chilies, onions, and a dash of mustard oil for an extra kick. Vendors serve it in paper cones, making it a popular snack to enjoy while walking around the city. Light yet bursting with flavor, Jhalmuri is the ideal choice for a quick and tasty bite.
4. Ghugni Chaat
Ghugni Chaat is a delicious street food made from yellow peas cooked in a spicy, tangy gravy and topped with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and a squeeze of lemon. Some vendors add tamarind sauce and even small fried puris for added crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also filling, making it a great snack to fuel your day of exploration in Kolkata.
5. Macher Chop
Kolkata’s love for fish is well-known, and Macher Chop (fish cutlet) is a perfect example of how the city infuses its love for fish into its street food culture. Macher Chop is made by marinating fish, coating it in a spiced batter, and deep-frying it to a golden crisp. The result is a crunchy exterior with a flavorful, tender fish filling. Served with green chutney, this street snack captures the essence of Bengali cuisine.
Whether you’re strolling through bustling markets or exploring hidden lanes, these street foods promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey through Kolkata.