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Calcutta is widely acknowledged as the birthplace of the kathi roll. Apparently, it was cleverly devised during the Raj for the benefit of Britons who wanted to eat parathas and kebabs without getting their fingers dirty. So, Nizam?s, the iconic roll and biryani destination behind New Market, now unfortunately closed, claims to have been the first to put the kebab into the flaky fried bread and wrap it up with paper.
The roll has now become staple roadside-stall fare. Every para has one, and it comes in numerous avatars. The real kathi roll would be garnished with some onion, green chilli and lemon. Some stores still stick to this winning, rather more subtle, concoction. But this requires succulent, tasty kebabs. Others, who may use inferior quality fillings, douse it with tomato and chilli sauce.
Double Chicken, Egg Chicken, Double Egg Double Chicken ? the limit depends on your appetite alone. Bihar (next to Nizam?s where all that really remains is a makeshift counter run by employees) offers a potato filling as well, making the chicken-anda-aloo combo a hugely satisfying ? and filling ? hit. Apart from meat (usually chicken, mutton or beef), the egg roll, paneer roll and vegetable roll are variations catering to vegetarians.
The roll has now become pan-Indian. Caf? chains such as Barista have given into the popular appeal of this desi treat, making room on sandwich racks for vegetarian and non-vegetarian versions. After spreading its crispy calorific flavour all over the country, it has travelled overseas as well. A kathi roll shop in New York has become a runaway success.
Hot Kati Roll
Close to the Park Street-Chowringhee crossing, this has become a favourite place for some of the best rolls the city has to offer, especially convenient for office goers in search of a quick bite.
Kusum Rolls
A little further down Park Street inside the Karnani Mansions complex, this rivals Hot Kati for popularity and quality.
Karco?s
After the near-death of Nizam?s and the decline of Badshah, Karco?s has emerged as a good option for those on a shopping spree.
Bedwin
While there are quite a few outlets all over town, the Gariahat roll counter is the most popular in the south. The Fish Tandoori roll is particularly good apart from the usual fare.
Zeeshan
This Park Circus restaurant has a loyal fan following for the usual varieties, as well as the more exotic brain rolls.
