Top 5 Anglo-Indian Dishes in Kolkata and the Best Restaurants to Savor Them
Kolkata’s Anglo-Indian culinary gems
22 Oct, 2024 by Reeth Naomi Puri
Kolkata’s Anglo-Indian culinary heritage is a fascinating blend of history and flavor. Evolving in modern-day restaurants, these dishes, like Mutton Dakbunglaw and Fish Kabiraji, are a testament to the unique fusion of Bengali cuisine with colonial influences. Whether it’s the spice-laden Railway Mutton Curry or the crisp Dimer Devil, Kolkata’s Anglo-Indian cuisine and food scene invites you on a flavorful journey through time, celebrating the city's vibrant, diverse palate at the most popular restaurants in Kolkata.
Mutton Dakbunglaw at Babu Culture, Multiple Locations
Babu Culture serves one of the most treasured dishes of Anglo-Indian cuisine — Mutton Dakbunglaw. This hearty dish, traditionally made in colonial British bungalows, features tender mutton pieces slow-cooked with potatoes, eggs, and freshly ground spices. The rich and flavorful curry bursts with warmth and comfort, perfect for a traditional Bengali meal with an Anglo-Indian twist. The potatoes, pair beautifully with the mutton, while the boiled egg adds an extra layer of richness.
Other Must haves: Ilish Cutlet, Pur Bhara Pomfret, Chittagong Murgi Chop, Jeera-Morich Mangsho Bhuna, Mangshor Chop
Cost for two: ₹ 1000
Fish Kabiraji at 6 Ballygunge Place, Multiple Locations
Fish Kabiraji is a fried delight that’s hard to resist. The dish is a golden-brown, crispy fried fish covered in a delicate, net-like egg batter. At 6 Ballygunge Place, one of the most popular restaurants in kolkata, this dish is a must-try, bringing back memories of old-school Calcutta. The flaky fish inside contrasts perfectly with the crisp egg net coating, making it an ideal snack or starter. Paired with a side of mustard or green chutney, Fish Kabiraji at 6 Ballygunge Place is the epitome of Anglo-Indian cuisine.
Other Must haves: Begun Bhaja, Chandannagar Fried Fish, Gandhoraj Grilled Fish, Mourala Macher Peyaji, Mochar Chop
Cost for two: ₹1200
Mulligatawny Chicken Soup at Roots Of Calcutta, New Town
Originally an Anglo-Indian adaptation of a South Indian dish, Mulligatawny Chicken Soup is a flavor-packed soup that’s both spicy and soothing. Amongst the most popular restaurants in Kolkata, Roots Of Calcutta in New Town serves this comforting bowl of soup, made with chicken, lentils, and a medley of Indian spices. The name "Mulligatawny" comes from the Tamil words "milagu" (pepper) and "tanni" (water), reflecting its spicy, peppery base. This dish is a go-to for those who crave bold flavors in every spoonful.
Other Must haves: Afghani Murg Cheesy Kebab, Tandoori Jhinga, Honey Lemon Chicken, Chicken Pepper Garlic Sauce Steak Sizzler, Katla Macher Kalia
Cost for two: ₹1600
Dimer Devil at Gondhoraj, Salt Lake
The Dimer Devil at Gondhoraj in Sector 1, Salt Lake, is a Bengali take on the classic British Scotch Egg, an Anglo-Indian cuisine classic. This popular street food and snack consists of a boiled egg wrapped in spiced minced meat or potato, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy mustard dip or green chutney, Dimer Devil has a crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful center. The sound of cutting through the crunch is enough to make a foodie’s day.
Other Must haves: Chana Motorshutir Chop, Aloo Jhinga Posto, Kosha Murgi, Bhetki Paturi, Dab Chingri
Cost for two: ₹ 1000
Classic Railway Mutton Curry at Oh! Calcutta, Multiple Locations
The Classic Railway Mutton Curry at Oh! Calcutta is a tribute to the flavorful meals served in the railway canteens of colonial India and Anglo-Indian cuisine. This dish features tender mutton pieces cooked with potatoes in a richly spiced curry, with hints of tamarind, coriander seeds, and dry red chilies. The combination of spicy, tangy, and earthy flavors transports you to the days of long railway journeys.
Other Must haves: Duck Pantheras, Grand Trunk Chicken, Chingri Cutlet, Bhetki Gondhoraj, Rui Maachher Dom Jhol, Aam Kashundi Kakra
Cost for two: ₹ 1500
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