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The City of Joy can also be called the City of Simplicity if you visit different food joints in Kolkata. The cabin culture in Kolkata is centuries old. One such iconic restaurant is Favourite Cabin. This is living evidence of the city’s rich cultural and historical legacy. Established in 1918 by Nutan Chandra Barua and his elder brother Gaur Chandra Barua, this quaint eatery has weathered the tides of time, becoming an indelible part of the city’s social and political fabric.
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Located on Surya Sen Street, just a stone’s throw from College Square, Favourite Cabin has played host to a remarkable array of intellectuals, freedom fighters, and artists, including Kazi Nazrul Islam, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Soumitra Chatterjee. For over a century, it has been a hub for 'adda'—a quintessential Bengali tradition of informal, intellectual discussions—where the exchange of ideas has flourished over countless cups of tea.
The origin of Favourite Cabin is deeply intertwined with Kolkata's history. Founded by the Barua brothers, who hailed from Chittagong (now in Bangladesh), it quickly became a gathering place for students, freedom fighters, and thinkers. What makes this place truly special is its unwavering commitment to preserving its original charm. The typical old-school wooden chairs, marble-top tables, and even the coal furnace used to toast bread remain the same.
The History Of Favourite Cabin
A Century-Old Legacy
Favourite Cabin, located at 69B Surya Sen Street, was founded in 1918 by Nutan Chandra Barua and his elder brother Gaur Chandra Barua. This iconic tea shop has silently witnessed India's independence struggle and intellectual awakening. Freedom fighters like Kazi Nazrul Islam and Subhas Chandra Bose used the cabin to plan their strategies. The space's unique layout—an outer sitting area, a kitchen, and an inner chamber—made these discussions discreet. Favourite Cabin's original décor offers a nostalgic experience that few other places can.
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The Gathering Place For Icons
Over the decades, Favourite Cabin has attracted many notable figures, from poets to politicians. The great poet Kazi Nazrul Islam was a regular visitor, often seen at table no. 4, quietly penning his revolutionary verses. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, during his student days at Presidency College, was also a frequent visitor, listening to Nazrul's compositions. Soumitra Chatterjee, the legendary actor, and Sunil Gangopadhyay, the celebrated poet, were among the many who found solace in the cabin’s simple yet profound ambience. The cabin was also a safe place for freedom fighters, as it was not under major suspicion by British authorities. The owners would tap a spoon on a plate to alert revolutionaries of any imminent police raid, allowing them to escape through a small door by the kitchen.
What To Order At Favourite Cabin
The Classic Menu
Favourite Cabin’s menu has remained largely unchanged for decades, offering simple yet delightful fare that complements its historic ambience. Patrons can enjoy a steaming cup of tea, available in both milk and lemon varieties, along with a slice of warm buttered toast—a favourite combination among regulars. The menu also includes other staples like paan cake, pastries, and bread toast, which have been recent additions but have quickly become popular. The tea, still brewed with the same care and precision as it was over a century ago, is a testament to the cabin's commitment to tradition. The bread is toasted on a coal furnace, adding a unique flavour that modern appliances cannot replicate.
Image Credit: Instagram | himadri_shikhar_ghatak
A Nostalgic Dining Experience
The essence of Favourite Cabin lies not just in its food but in its experience. Sitting on a wooden chair, under a creaking DC fan, and sipping tea from a chipped cup transports one back to a simpler time. Regular customers like Rathin Biswas visit the cabin to soak in this tradition and nostalgia. The coal-furnace-toasted bread, in particular, is a must-try for anyone visiting the cabin, as it carries the distinct taste of history.
Why Favourite Cabin Is Famous
A Hub For Intellectual 'Adda'
Favourite Cabin is renowned for being more than just a place to eat; it is a sanctuary for intellectuals and thinkers. The term 'adda' is synonymous with the cabin, where political ideologies, literary thoughts, and cultural debates have thrived over the years. This tradition of unhurried, meaningful conversations continues to draw people from all walks of life, making Favourite Cabin a vital part of Kolkata's cultural landscape. The cheap rates and welcoming atmosphere allow customers to linger for hours, engaging in discussions without pressure to leave. This unique blend of history, culture, and affordability has cemented Favourite Cabin's reputation as a beloved institution.
Image Credit: Instagram | himadri_shikhar_ghatak
A Witness To History
The cabin’s thick walls have seen the birth of several political ideologies and have been a part of the city's most turbulent times, including the Naxal movement. This rich history draws people to the cabin, making it a place where one can literally sit where history was made. The fact that nothing much has changed since its inception only adds to its allure, offering a rare glimpse into the past.
Things To Know For Visiting Favourite Cabin
Essential Tips
Visiting Favourite Cabin is like stepping into a time capsule, so it’s important to keep a few things in mind. The cabin still operates with its original setup, meaning seating is limited, and the place can get crowded, especially during peak hours. It’s best to visit during off-peak times if you want to enjoy a quiet 'adda'. The ambience is rustic, with wooden chairs and marble-top tables that have stood the test of time, so don’t expect modern comforts. However, this is precisely what makes the experience unique. The prices are incredibly affordable, with a cup of tea and a slice of toast costing less than INR 50, making it a budget-friendly option for everyone.
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Preservation Of Tradition
One of the key things to appreciate when visiting Favourite Cabin is its commitment to preserving its original charm. The owners have made a conscious decision to maintain the cabin’s historic décor and culinary practices. For instance, the bread is still toasted using a coal furnace, and the same marble-top tables from 1918 are still in use. This attention to detail ensures visitors get an authentic experience that remains true to the cabin’s roots.
Cost Of Dining At Favourite Cabin
Budget-Friendly Dining
One of the reasons Favourite Cabin has remained popular for over a century is its affordability. A meal for two, including tea and toast, is a go-to option for students, locals, and tourists. The low prices, coupled with the historical significance of the place, make it a must-visit for anyone in Kolkata.
Image Credit: Instagram | panchaliclicks
Favourite Cabin is not just a restaurant; it’s a slice of history served on a plate. With its unchanged décor, simple yet delightful menu, and a legacy that includes some of India’s greatest thinkers and freedom fighters, this iconic establishment offers a unique experience that transports visitors back to a bygone era. Whether it’s the nostalgia of the wooden chairs or the taste of the coal-furnace-toasted bread, Favourite Cabin continues to be a beloved destination for those seeking a connection to Kolkata’s rich past.
