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Historical Sharbat Trail In Central Kolkata
By Satwik Paul
Kolkata has a vibrant culture of iconic sharbat shops that were established in the pre-Indipendence era. These shops not only serve delicious, seasonal beverages but also iconic ones like rose sharbat and falooda. Here is a food trail that will take you to the best sharbat places in Kolkata.
*Some restaurants listed in this trail serve non-vegetarian food, but have been added because they have good vegetarian options on their menu as well.
Paramount Cold Drinks & Syrups
When Nihar Ranjan Majumdar founded Paramount, the idea was to create a safe haven for freedom fighters: they could meet at the small shop, ostensibly to sip sharbat, but really to discuss their plans for revolution. A list of its famous patrons reads like a who’s who of Indian history. By the time India’s independence was won, Paramount had become a fixture in the hearts and routines of Kolkata residents. Today, its signature daab sharbat, coco malai, passionfruit, grape crush and mango juices continue to enjoy an ardent and loyal following.Balwant Singh's Eating House
Whether it’s their doodh cola, kesar/strawberry lassi, or thandai, locals can’t seem to get enough of the beverages at Balwant Singh's.
Sip & Drink
In business for over four decades now, Sip & Drink at Esplanade Junction sees people queuing up for tall glasses of mango and dahi lassi. The owner Abhishek says, in between blending a fresh batch of sharbat, that he sells nearly 3,000 drinks a day. For those who prefer a lighter beverage, Abhishek also whips up sweet lime, pomegranate and grape juice.Shiv Assram
Don’t be fooled by its unassuming exterior: Shiv Assram is popular among the younger crowd courtesy its proximity to several schools and colleges in the area. The kids (and adults) love to hop over for cooling glasses of kesar thandai, kesar badam, kesar pista and pineapple syrup (sharbats).