For as long as its residents can remember, Kolkata’s Park Street has been synonymous with great food and glittering evenings. The street, which is often referred to as the dining district, has been a hub of nightlife in the city since the days of the Raj. The 70s brought a host of restaurants, many of which offered live music. Some of these iconic establishments such as Trinca’s and Mocambo are still thriving today; and they have been joined by a spate of newer eateries that are firmly establishing themselves as the current favourites. Here’s a list of the choicest new haunts on Park Street.
Ping’s Cafe Orient
With its quirky interiors – think mismatched chairs, neon lights, and funky upcycled decor (repurposed Foxes tins to store cutlery and crates for shelves – Ping’s playful atmosphere is an ideal spot for a casual Asian meal. Make sure you order the melt-in-your mouth Philadelphia Cream Cheese Dim Sum and the Tokyo Tower Ramen. The best part is that you can wash these down with some really interesting cocktails, an Oriental take on old favourites. Choose from a Miso Mary, a twist on Bloody Mary with Miso Pesto, or substitute your Whiskey Sour for a Midori Sour with Japanese Green Melon liquor.
Where: 2A, Middleton Row, Park Street Area, Kolkata
When: 12:00 noon to 3:30 pm and 7.00 to 11.30 pm, Monday through Sunday
Cost for two: Rs 1,500 (approx)
Spice Klub
If you are a ‘desi’ food lover but are looking for something light and less greasy, then you’ll enjoy Spice Klub. They have an avant-garde take on Indian cuisine with a molecular twist. The place is 100 percent vegetarian and has plenty of vegan options. On the menu are all your beloved comfort foods in a brand new avatar. We recommend the Pav Bhaji Fondue and Roomali Cheese Papad that pairs well with a tangy Kalakhatta Mojito. To finish up, try the Bubbling Kulfi served with an array of different toppings.
Where: 1st Floor, 24, Park Street, Annex Building, Magma House Complex, Park Street Area, Kolkata
When: 12:00 noon to 3:30pm, and 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm, Monday through Sunday
Cost for two: Rs 2,100 (approx)
Pa Pa Ya
This contemporary Asian bistro on the top floor of the Magma Building serves some stunning vistas of the city as well as some delicious pan Asian dishes. The decor is minimal and sophisticated, and the most coveted spots are the tables with the best views, but advance booking is recommended. If you like Tapas, they have a wide range of options. Try the Crispy Lotus Stem and the Curry Leaf and Peppered Calamari. We also recommend the Yaki Udon and you can finish it off with their mouth-watering Mango Pudding with Sticky Rice.
Where: Level 11, Magma House, 24, Park Street Area Kolkata
When: 12:00 noon to 12:00 midnight, Monday through Sunday
Cost for two: Rs 2,000 (approx)
Sienna Cafe Park Street
The cool kids behind the city’s favourite haunt in Hindustan Park opened a large cafe on Park Street earlier this year, complete with an all new menu and a co-working space – read more about it here. We recommend trying the Braised Pork Belly and the Tomato Burrata Salad from the latest menu and make sure to keep room for dessert. The Cloud cake, Date and Walnut Crumble cake, and Chilli Chocolate cake are our new favourites.
When: 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Monday through Sunday
Where: 1st, Development House 24 Park Street, Kolkata
Cost for two: Rs 2,000 (approx)
Patisserie by Franziska
This is the newest kid on the baking block, started by a young Franziska Marie from Germany who fell in love with the City of Joy. We cannot get enough of her delicious sweet treats. The cafe is tiny and charming with pink pouffes for seating and a chequered floor. They have strong coffee, a range of fragrant teas, and a selection of baked goodies using the freshest and most authentic ingredients available. They often have limited pastries of the day based on fruits of the season. Although we are hard-pressed to choose favourites, the Belgian Dark Chocolate Tart made with 70 percent dark Belgian chocolate, and the Blueberry and Vanilla tart that uses fresh blueberries and organic vanilla made us swoon.
When: 11:00 am -11:00 pm, Tuesday through Sunday
Where: 13C, Russell Street, Park Street Area, Kolkata
Cost for two: Rs 450 (approx)
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