Kolkata, the City of Joy, is a paradise for street food lovers. Even a short stopover in this vibrant city can turn into a delightful culinary adventure, and that’s exactly what happened to me. En route to Guwahati, I had a few hours to spare in Kolkata, and I decided to make the most of it. A quick cab ride took me to the iconic Dakshineswar Kali Temple, but what truly captivated me was the street food scene just outside the temple premises.
As I had already spent a good chunk of my budget on the iconic yellow cabs of Kolkata, I knew I had to be mindful of my food expenses. Fortunately, Kolkata is the perfect city for budget food lovers, where even a small amount of money can fetch you a fulfilling and delicious meal. The sight, aroma, and sizzling sounds of food being prepared on the streets made my stomach rumble with excitement. I knew I was in for a treat.
A magical encounter with the puri-wala
While exploring the food stalls outside Dakshineswar, my attention was drawn to a man who seemed like a magician. He was frying puris at lightning speed, his hands moving like an automated machine, each motion perfectly synchronized. It was mesmerizing to watch him work; there was a rhythm, an artistry, in the way he tossed and turned the puffed-up golden puris. I knew I had to taste them.
I placed my order for Puri Bhaji, a quintessential Bengali breakfast that never disappoints. The puris were served fresh, paired with a simple yet flavorful potato curry. The combination of crispy, airy puris and the slightly spicy, tangy bhaji was heavenly. I relished every bite, savoring the taste of something so comforting and homely yet bursting with local flavors.
Next, I spotted a Dahi Vada, a popular snack made of lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, topped with tamarind chutney and spices. The contrast of textures and flavors—the softness of the vada, the creaminess of the yogurt, the tangy-sweet chutney, and the hint of spice—was just perfect. In the scorching Kolkata heat, this dish provided a refreshing relief, making it an absolute must-try.
Bengali sweets
No visit to Kolkata is complete without indulging in its famous sweets. With whatever money I had left, I decided to try some Bengali sweets from a humble-looking stall nearby. The choices were overwhelming—rosogolla, sandesh, mishti doi, cham cham—but I settled on a couple of rosogollas. One bite into the syrupy delight, and I could understand why these spongy, sugary treats are adored across India. The sweetness was just right, not overpowering, and the texture was unbelievably soft and juicy.
The hustle and bustle of Kolkata’s street food scene
The atmosphere around the food stalls was something that truly added to the experience. The tiny shop where I ate was packed with people, constantly coming and going, just like in a fast-paced video game. The vendors were moving swiftly, taking orders, frying, serving, and collecting money—all with clockwork efficiency. The energy was infectious, and despite the chaos, there was a sense of harmony in the way everything functioned seamlessly.
And then, of course, there was the hygiene—or the lack of it. If you’re someone who is overly particular about cleanliness, street food in Kolkata might not be for you. But for those who live for the taste, the thrill, and the authenticity of local flavors, it’s an experience worth having. After all, some of the best street food in the world is found in places where the focus is on flavor rather than finesse.
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A satisfying experience on a small budget
The best part of my little Kolkata food adventure? I managed to enjoy a full meal, including snacks and sweets, all within ₹100! It’s almost surreal how affordable and delicious street food can be in this city. From witnessing the magic of the puri-wala to cooling off with dahi vada and ending on a sweet note with rosogolla, it was a feast that satisfied not just my hunger but also my soul.
As I took a cab back to the airport, I realized that Kolkata’s street food had given me something more than just a meal—it had given me a story, a memory, a piece of the city to take with me. Whether you’re on a budget or just looking to taste the true essence of Kolkata, the street food here will never disappoint.
If you ever find yourself in this city, do yourself a favor—step out of the comfort of fancy restaurants and immerse yourself in the bustling street food culture. You might just find the best meal of your life, cooked right in front of your eyes, served with a smile, and all under ₹100!
Love,
Shweta