Kolkata's Famous Durga Puja Pandal Food Trail
By Shreya Goswami
In Kolkata during Durga Puja? You should definitely get started on this trail of famuous pandals in the city, known for their creativity and festive fervour, and of course, the food. There is always a line of stalls and vendors with some of the most incredibly delicious dishes, from street food favourites like Phuchka and Kochuri to resplendent and royal Biryanis, Kebabs and Kathi Rolls.
*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.
Baghbazar
So, why is this particular Durga Puja pandal at the top of our list? Simply because the Baghbazar Durga Puja is one of the oldest of North Kolkata and because it was started in 1919 by some of the most eminent Bengalis like Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The festivities here reflect Kolkata’s heritage and simplicity. As for pet pujo, don’t miss out on the delicacies on offer at Potlar Kochuri, Nilachal, Laltur Cabin, Gansha-r Maacher Kochuri, Nabin Chandra Das, etc.Mohammed Ali Park
One of the oldest Durga Pujas of Central Kolkata, the iconic Mohammed Ali Park Durga Puja pandal is situated in the park which has a pond and a fountain—which often form the natural centre-pieces of the pandals. The annual celebrations of Maa Durga here are always about the grandest themes, huge idols and the true glory of the deity. Located close to Zakaria Street, non-vegetarians visiting this pandal always have access to the best kebabs in town, whether at Al Baik or at Sufia.College Square
Situated bang in the middle of Kolkata’s centuries old educational hub—a stone’s throw away from Calcutta University, Presidency University, Sanskrit College and Calcutta Medical College—the College Square Durga Puja panadal always attracts people of all ages. Thanks to the huge water body nearby, this pandal looks best at night. While there, you should definitely try street foods like Phuchka, Chowmein and Roll, and visit iconic eateries like Indian Coffee House, Putiram and Paramount.Santosh Mitra Square
One of the oldest and most popular Durga Puja pandals of Central Kolkata, this 80-year-old iconic puja pandal is located near the old Bowbazar area. This particular Durga Puja pandal has always attracted crowds, but since their portrayal of Buckingham Palace in 2017, the popularity of this one has risen. Here, you can try many old eateries that serve Kochuri, Phuchka and even Luchi-Aloor Dom, or head to the nearby College Street for more food options.Ekdalia Evergreen
Established in the 1940s, this iconic old South Kolkata Durga Puja pandal is celebrating its 79th anniversary in 2023. Known for its massive scale and elegant style, this Durga Puja pandal is known for creating some of the most beautiful, themed pujas—this year their focus is on Jain temple architecture in Rajasthan. From 6 Ballygunge Place to Bhojohori Manna, some of the most incredible restaurants serving authentic Bengali cuisine are located near this puja pandal.Sreebhumi
Located in the Lake Town area of North Kolkata, Sreebhumi’s famous Durga Puja is organised by the Sreebhumi Sporting Club. Surrounded by water bodies, the iconic (though new) clock tower and plenty of old eateries, this puja pandal has always floored visitors with their stunning themes. What’s more, the many places to eat like Rahamania, Host and Salt Lake cafes on the other side of the road also provide plenty of chances to indulge for foodies.Tridhara Sammilani
Founded in 1947 and popular ever since, this South Kolkata Durga Puja pandal is known for its artistic and cultural themes. This popular Durga Puja pandal manages to get awards every year for its stunning themes, and is a great hangout for both young and old visitors. Given that the Deshapriya Park area is quite close by, you will also be able to access plenty of eateries that serve authentic Bengali meals and snacks around this puja pandal.Dum Dum Park
This North Kolkata neighbourhood has three distinct and equally popular Durga Puja pandals—Sarbajanin, Bharat Chakra and Tarun Sangha—that always compete with each other and the rest of the city for the most creative pandal awards. In recent years, Bharat Chakra has especially become quite popular as a place that offers some of the most beautiful puja pandals. While here, you must try out the many eateries around Jessore Road that offer everything from momos and noodles to Phuchkas and rolls, including at places like Aminia and Arsalan.Shobhabazar Rajbari
One of the oldest and most regal Durga Puja pandals of Kolkata, this one has been around since 1757. From hosting the British at the Shobhabazar Rajbari Durga Puja pandal to now hosting celebrities and visitors from around the world, this iconic puja should simply not be missed while in town. From the iconic Nabin Chandra Das confectioners to the famous Mitra Café, there is no dearth of places to get your binge on near this pandal.Suruchi Sangha
Just 50 years old and yet one of the most popular Durga Puja pandals of Kolkata, the Suruchi Sangha pandal always focuses various states and their culture. Apart from getting a glimpse of the handicrafts, art and food of these states, you can also feel the glory of national pride while at this Durga Puja pandal. This year’s focus is on Bengal, so check out the food here for a true taste of the region. Close to this pandal, you will also find plenty of eateries serving delicious rolls for a quick bite.
Popular dishes from Kolkata
