Attention big eaters, the dining-out experience has just got better in Kolkata with limitless helpings and scrumptious thalis of Bengali delicacies at restaurants ahead of Puja. What’s better? Eating to your heart’s content at these places won’t burn a hole in your pocket. Here’s where you must head for a hearty Bengali meal this month in the City of Joy.
Hello Bengal by Hatari
Imagine sitting in a bungalow-style space, reminiscent of old Kolkata bonedi bari, while a buffet piled high with comforting dishes awaits you. At Hello Bengal, the spread comprises more than 15 items ranging from Egg Devil and Beguni to Doi Katla and Rajnandini Basanti Nazakat Pulao.
Must try: Unlimited buffet with over 15 classic dishes
Pocket pinch: Rs 699 per person
Where: D19, Uday Shankar Sarani Rd, Golf Green
When: 12pm onwards
Call: 7980974490
Babu Culture
If you’re craving a compact but soulful meal, Babu Culture’s mini thali should be on your bucket list. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or when you want a little taste of everything without compromising on your daily calorie count.
Must try: Fish Roll, Beguni, Moong Dal, Papad, Rosogolla, Bhetki Paturi, Katla Kalia, Chicken Kosha
Pocket pinch: Starts at Rs 399
Where: Dover Lane, Sodepur, Narendrapur, Salt Lake Sector-2
Call: 8420909829
Soul of Bengal
Boasting two outlets in Kasba and Southern Avenue, Soul of Bengal brings together tradition and innovation in a way that feels nostalgic — home-cooked meals have been curated into sharable thalis. The menu includes options such as Didu’r Thaali, Masi’r Thaali, Pisi’r Thaali, Ilish Thaali, Epar Opar Thaali, Chicken Monohori Thaali, and Mangso Thaali. Thalis can be shared or ordered as unlimited portions for individual diners.
Must try: Thalis
Pocket pinch: Thalis start at Rs 249
Where: Southern Avenue & Ruby, Kasba
Call: 9330820750
Sorshe Posto
For just Rs 299, you get a wholesome Bengali meal in the heart of North Kolkata. From Bhetki Paturi to Chingri Malai Curry and finishing with Payesh, this quaint restaurant in Hatibagan is also a favourite among the Instagram crowd for its aesthetic looks.
Must try: Bhetki Paturi and Chingri Malai Curry
Pocket pinch: Thalis start at Rs 299
Where: 49b, Purna Das Rd, Hindustan Park, Gariahat
Call: 9830088779
Usha Restaurant
For more than four decades, Usha Restaurant has been a landmark in Kolkata’s food scene, dishing out hearty thalis without fail. The grand thali at this eatery packs in everything — rice, dal, kosha mangsho, and sweets — all for a modest Rs 299. If you value food that’s simple and satisfying, this is where you must head to.
Must try: Bengali thali
Pocket pinch: Rs 299
Where: 14b, Anil Roy Rd, Hemanta Mukherjee Sarani, Lake Terrace, Ballygunge
Call: 06292293449
Dipikar Kitchen
Don’t let the no-frills exterior fool you — Dipikar Kitchen near KPC Hospital in Jadavpur is where you’ll find some of the most innovative yet deeply traditional Bengali thalis. Chicken Ala Kiev and Basanti Polao with Daab Chingri to Sorse Ilish and Bhetki Cheesy Kabiraji, the menu blends tradition with modern culinary takes. The Rajokiyo Thali offers a full Bengali experience with multiple curries, fried items, rice, dal, sweets, and more.
Must try: Rajokiyo Thali for a complete Bengali food experience, Bhetki Cheesy Kabiraji
Pocket pinch: Rs 160 to Rs 300
Where: Plot 43, Raja Subodh Chandra Mallick Rd, Jadavpur
Call: 8013505419, 96748 56732