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5 Best Restaurants in Kolkata You Must Visit in 2025: The Ultimate Food Lover’s Guide
Introduction
Kolkata, often hailed as the “Cultural Capital of India,” is also celebrated for its vibrant and diverse culinary landscape. From bustling street food corners to elegant fine-dining spots, the city promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Whether you’re a passionate local foodie or a curious traveller, discovering the right places to dine is key to experiencing the authentic taste of the city.
In this comprehensive guide to the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata, we’ll highlight establishments that offer more than just great food—they deliver a memorable dining experience. From traditional Bengali delicacies and iconic Mughlai specialties to inventive global cuisine, these top picks represent the very best of Kolkata’s food culture. We’ll delve into their must-try dishes, ambiance, pricing, and what makes each of them a standout in the city’s culinary scene.
1. Oh! Calcutta – The Epitome of Authentic Bengali Cuisine
A Culinary Homage to Bengal’s Heritage
When it comes to authentic Bengali food, Oh! Calcutta stands tall as a culinary landmark that appeals to both locals and tourists. With outlets at Forum Mall (Elgin Road), Camac Street, and Salt Lake, the restaurant has perfected traditional Bengali cuisine with a refined, contemporary touch—earning its spot among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata.
Must-Try Dishes
- Kosha Mangsho – Slow-cooked mutton in a rich, spicy gravy.
- Shorshe Ilish – Hilsa fish marinated in mustard paste, a celebrated Bengali delicacy.
- Daab Chingri – Succulent prawns cooked inside a tender coconut shell.
- Bhetki Paturi – Fish fillet wrapped in banana leaf with mustard sauce.
- Chingri Malai Curry – Prawns simmered in a rich coconut milk gravy.
- Gurer Bhapa Sondesh – A traditional steamed sweet made from jaggery.
Buffet Offer: ₹1,495/-
Ambiance & Experience
The décor of Oh! Calcutta is a charming tribute to colonial-era Kolkata, featuring vintage photographs, wooden furnishings, and soft lighting that create an elegant yet cozy atmosphere. First-time visitors are highly encouraged to try the Bengali Thali—a balanced platter including rice, fish, meat, lentils, and traditional sweets.
Location & Accessibility
The Elgin Road outlet is located inside Forum Shopping Mall, right across from Netaji Bhawan—the historic residence of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. A visit to the museum here adds a patriotic touch to your dining experience. Additionally, the iconic Victoria Memorial Hall, one of Kolkata’s top tourist destinations, is just 10 minutes away. The location is convenient, offers ample parking, and is accessible to individuals with physical disabilities.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
According to the latest data:
- Google My Business (GMB): 4.4 stars from 3,157 reviews
- Zomato: 4.6 stars from 2,783 reviews
- Justdial: 4.4 stars from 7,513 reviews
Such consistently high ratings further affirm Oh! Calcutta’s position among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata.
Value for Money and Pricing
Thanks to its top-quality food, warm ambiance, and courteous service, many consider dining at Oh! Calcutta an experience that offers excellent value for money. While some guests feel the pricing leans on the higher side, it’s important to note that exceptional quality often commands a premium. On average, a meal for two costs around ₹1,500. The restaurant is open from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM and again from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Online Presence and Reservation Ease
Oh! Calcutta maintains an active presence on food delivery platforms such as Zomato, Swiggy, and Magicpin. Table reservations can easily be made via GMB, Zomato, Swiggy, EazyDiner, and Onelink.me. The restaurant enjoys a strong social media following, with over 65,000 followers on Facebook and 17.4K on Instagram.
Local and Cultural Relevance
The essence of Bengali culture is embedded in every aspect of Oh! Calcutta—from its decor to its menu. The restaurant regularly curates special menus for Bengali festivals such as Poila Boishakh, Bhai Phonta, Durga Puja, and Jamai Sasthi. Additionally, they host seasonal events like the Hilsa Festival, Duck Festival, and Special Weekend Buffets. Cultural evenings are further enriched with live musical performances by renowned artists. The restaurant has also attracted celebrity patrons, including international tennis legend Leander Paes, and acclaimed personalities like Victor Banerjee, Bickram Ghosh, and Ashish Vidyarthi from Indian cinema.
Why Visit Oh! Calcutta?
✔ Best for traditional Bengali fine dining
✔ Perfect for family gatherings and special occasions
✔ Consistently high-quality food and service
2. Peter Cat – A Park Street Institution Since 1975
A Timeless Icon of Kolkata’s Culinary Scene
Peter Cat needs no introduction. An iconic establishment nestled in the heart of Park Street, this legendary restaurant has been serving food lovers since 1975. With international acclaim and a loyal local fanbase, Peter Cat is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the city. Known especially for its signature Chelo Kebabs, it’s a paradise for meat lovers and easily earns its place among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata.
Must-Try Dishes
- Chelo Kebabs – Juicy kebabs paired with buttered rice, a fried egg, and grilled vegetables; the crown jewel of Peter Cat.
- Sizzlers – Choose from steak, chicken, or fish served sizzling hot with flavorful sauces.
- Persian Specials – Mutton Berry Pulao and Chicken Reshmi Kebab are crowd favorites.
- Fish Makhmali Kebab – Soft fish fillets with a creamy texture.
- Bhetki Meuniere – A French-style fish delicacy.
- Mutton Rogan Josh – Aromatic, slow-cooked mutton in a rich, spiced gravy.
Ambiance & Experience
Walking into Peter Cat is like stepping back in time. Its vintage interior—with dim lighting, red upholstery, and colonial-era charm—creates a warm, nostalgic ambiance. The Chelo Kebab remains unchanged in flavour for decades, offering a timeless experience for generations of diners.
Location & Accessibility
Located at Stephen Court Building, 18A Park Street, right opposite the KFC outlet, Peter Cat sits in one of Kolkata’s busiest and most vibrant areas. It’s just a 10-minute drive from popular attractions like the Victoria Memorial and Indian Museum, making it a perfect stop during sightseeing. The restaurant offers convenient access, ample parking, and is easily reachable by public transport.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The restaurant’s reputation is backed by impressive reviews across multiple platforms:
- Google My Business (GMB): 4.2 stars from 38,287 reviews
- Zomato: 4.4 stars from 14,257 reviews
- Swiggy: 4.6 stars from 19,000 reviews
- Justdial: 4.3 stars from 58,700 reviews
These figures not only reflect consistent customer satisfaction but also solidify its rank among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata.
Affordable Luxury and Pricing
Peter Cat is the definition of “affordable luxury.” Despite being a heritage destination, it offers high-quality food, a welcoming atmosphere, and excellent service at reasonable prices. A comfortable meal for two typically costs around ₹1,200. The restaurant operates daily from 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
Online Presence and Reservation Ease
The restaurant is actively available on major food delivery platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Magicpin. For table reservations, you can book through GMB, Zomato, Swiggy, EazyDiner, and Onelink.me. On social media, Peter Cat maintains a strong digital footprint with over 32,000 followers on Facebook and 2.7K followers on Instagram, complemented by over 24,000 Facebook reviews.
Local and Cultural Relevance
Peter Cat’s legacy and contribution to Kolkata’s food culture have earned it a place in the “100 Most Iconic Restaurants in the World” by the TasteAtlas Awards 2024/25—thanks largely to its celebrated Chelo Kebab. The restaurant has also been featured by prominent media outlets including NDTV Food, CNBC TV18, and The Hindu, further affirming its status as one of the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata and a culinary icon of India.
Why Visit Peter Cat?
✔ Home of the legendary Chelo Kebabs
✔ Great for late-night dinners (open till 11 PM)
✔ Affordable luxury in a vintage setting
3. 6 Ballygunge Place – Where Tradition Meets Taste
A Bengali Culinary Landmark Since 2003
6 Ballygunge Place isn’t just an address anymore—it’s a brand that has become synonymous with authentic Bengali cuisine. Housed in a stately colonial-era bungalow, the flagship restaurant began its journey in 2003 and has since expanded across Kolkata and even beyond West Bengal. With its deep-rooted cultural essence and soul-satisfying food, it firmly earns its place among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata.
Must-Try Dishes
- Mochar Ghonto – Banana flower delicately cooked with spices and coconut, a Bengali vegetarian delight.
- Chingri Malai Curry – Jumbo prawns in a rich, creamy coconut milk gravy—luxurious and comforting.
- Sunday Buffet – A royal spread of Bengali delicacies, perfect for weekend family feasts.
- Bhapa Chingri – A steamed delicacy, prawns marinated with fresh mustard past and grated coconut.
- Bhapa Bhetki – Steamed Bhetki flavoured with yogurt and flavoured lemon.
Ambiance & Experience
Step into the world of old Bengal at 6 Ballygunge Place. The décor features vintage furniture, antique chandeliers, and sepia-toned photographs, capturing the aristocratic essence of Bengal’s bygone era. Whether it’s a family brunch or a special celebration, this place offers warmth, hospitality, and nostalgia on a plate.
Location & Accessibility
The restaurant operates across multiple locations in Kolkata, including the original outlet at Ballygunge Place, which is just minutes from the bustling Gariahat Market. Other key locations include Chowringhee, close to iconic tourist spots like Victoria Memorial and the Indian Museum. Most branches offer convenient parking and easy access via public transport, making it a traveller’s and local’s favourite.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
6 Ballygunge Place enjoys strong customer loyalty and glowing reviews:
- Google My Business (GMB): 4.4 stars from 10,000+ reviews
- Zomato: 4.4 stars from 4,000+ reviews
- Justdial: 4.2 stars from 9,300+ reviews
Its consistent ratings underline its stature among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata for traditional Bengali dining.
Affordable Luxury and Pricing
Combining heritage charm, delectable cuisine, and a warm ambiance, 6 Ballygunge Place delivers on its promise of “affordable luxury.” Dining here offers excellent value for money, with an average meal for two costing approximately ₹1,500. Operating hours are split into two slots: 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM and 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM, accommodating both lunch and dinner services.
Online Presence and Reservation Ease
The restaurant maintains a strong online presence across platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Magicpin, ensuring that their food reaches customers at home. For reservations, diners can use GMB, EazyDiner, Zomato, Swiggy, and Onelink.me. Socially, 6 Ballygunge Place is well-followed with over 32K Facebook followers and 10.9K followers on Instagram.
Local and Cultural Relevance
Over the years, 6 Ballygunge Place has won accolades from renowned platforms like Lonely Planet, National Geographic, American Express, and The Telegraph. The restaurant has also hosted an array of celebrities including Brett Lee, Rishi Kapoor, Asha Bhonsle, Sourav Ganguly, Naseeruddin Shah, Dilip Kumar, and Twinkle Khanna, among many others—further affirming its position as one of the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata and a cultural institution in itself.
Why Visit 6 Ballygunge Place?
✔ Best for traditional Bengali home-style food
✔ Heritage ambiance with a cozy feel
✔ Famous Sunday buffet (must book in advance)
4. Arsalan – A Biryani Lover’s Dream in Kolkata
Flavourful Legacy Since 2002
When it comes to Mughlai cuisine and Kolkata-style biryani, Arsalan is a name that echoes across the city and beyond. Since opening its first branch at Park Circus on October 6, 2002, Arsalan has grown into a culinary empire, with 11 branches in Kolkata and 1 international outlet in Dubai. For biryani lovers, Arsalan isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a pilgrimage. Its growing footprint and loyal customer base make it a top contender among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata.
Must-Try Dishes
- Mutton Biryani – Aromatic basmati rice cooked with tender mutton, whole potatoes, and a dash of rose water—Kolkata-style perfection.
- Chicken Reshmi Kebab – Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth kebabs grilled to juicy perfection.
- Mutton Chaap – Rich, spicy, and slow-cooked—ideal with biryani or paratha.
- Mutton Kakori Kebab – Delicately minced, spiced mutton kebabs that melt on your tongue.
- Chicken Tangri Butter Masala – Chicken drumsticks in a buttery, mildly spiced gravy—perfect with naan.
Ambiance & Experience
Arsalan offers a simple and functional dine-in environment, but what it may lack in luxury, it makes up for in bold, unforgettable flavours. Expect a bustling atmosphere, especially during peak hours, with food that speaks louder than any décor.
Value for Money and Pricing
Arsalan delivers exceptional value for money, with generous portions and consistent quality. While some may find it slightly on the higher side, loyal patrons understand that great taste comes at a price. A hearty meal for two typically costs around ₹1,000, making it an accessible indulgence. The restaurant operates from 11:00 AM to 11:30 PM, offering all-day dining.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Arsalan continues to impress across major platforms:
- Google My Business (GMB): 4.2 stars from 39,000+ reviews
- Zomato: 4.1 stars (60,000+ delivery reviews) and 4.2 stars (4,400+ dine-in reviews)
- Swiggy: 4.5 stars from 105,000+ reviews
- Justdial: 4.3 stars from 10,200+ reviews
These numbers are a testament to the brand’s unwavering popularity and quality.
Online Presence and Reservation Ease
Arsalan has a dedicated website (www.arsalanrestaurants.com) for seamless information access. They are highly active on delivery platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Magicpin. For reservations, diners can rely on GMB, Zomato, and Swiggy. On social media, Arsalan boasts 13K Facebook followers and 11K followers on Instagram, maintaining a strong digital presence.
Local and Cultural Relevance
Arsalan is more than just a restaurant; it’s a symbol of Kolkata’s love affair with biryani. Over the years, it has won several prestigious awards including:
- The Telegraph Food Guide Award of Excellence
- Times Food Award
- MouthShut.com Recognition
- Justdial Award for Customer Trust
These accolades cement Arsalan’s status as one of the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata, especially for biryani and Mughlai cuisine enthusiasts.
Why Visit Arsalan?
✔ Best biryani in Kolkata (rivaling even Aminia & Shiraz)
✔ Pocket-friendly prices
✔ Quick service despite crowds
5. The Corner Courtyard – Fine Dining Under the Stars
Heritage Charm Meets Modern Elegance
If you’re looking for an intimate, upscale dining experience, The Corner Courtyard on Sarat Bose Road stands out as a hidden gem in the heart of South Kolkata. Housed in a restored Zamindar residence from 1904, this boutique restaurant and hotel brings history alive with a fresh twist. What was once a sprawling colonial home, later divided and partially sold off, has now been carefully reimagined into a refined dining space and boutique stay. Among the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata, The Corner Courtyard shines for its blend of history, elegance, and contemporary cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes
- Tandoori Lamb Chops – Char-grilled, perfectly marinated lamb served with a refreshing mint dip.
- Prawn Risotto – Creamy Italian-style risotto with fresh prawns and a subtle hint of saffron.
- Chocolate Fondant – Gooey-centered chocolate dessert, ideal for ending a romantic meal.
Ambiance & Experience
The ambiance is what truly sets The Corner Courtyard apart. Think soft fairy lights, vintage furniture, soothing music, and open-air rooftop seating—perfect for date nights, anniversaries, birthdays, private dinners, or cocktail parties with colleagues. The décor, service, and plating are all thoughtfully curated for an Instagram-worthy experience. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a destination.
Online Presence and Reservation Ease
The restaurant maintains a polished online presence with a dedicated website (www.thecornercourtyard.com) and listings on top travel platforms including MakeMyTrip, Yatra, Goibibo, Agoda, as well as food delivery and reservation platforms like Zomato, Dineout, and EazyDiner. They offer both dining and boutique accommodation, giving guests a complete luxury experience. On social media, The Corner Courtyard has a steady fanbase, with 8K followers on Facebook and 8.4K on Instagram, along with presence on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Local and Cultural Relevance
Situated on the bustling Sarat Bose Road, surrounded by local markets, schools, and hospitals, The Corner Courtyard remains a peaceful escape amid the chaos—a true hidden gem for food lovers. The venue has been featured in prestigious publications such as BBC Good Food, Conde Nast Traveller, The Economic Times, Elle Décor, and India Today. It has also hosted high-profile events like:
- A fundraising dinner with Kunal Kapoor & Ketto
- Book launches with Chef Vicky Ratnani (Vicky Goes Veg)
- Pooja Dhingra’s The Big Book of Treats launch
The Corner Courtyard not only preserves Kolkata’s colonial essence but also embraces a modern hospitality ethos, making it one of the 5 best restaurants in Kolkata for refined, experiential dining.
Why Visit The Corner Courtyard?
✔ Best rooftop dining in Kolkata
✔ Great for couples and celebrations
✔ Unique fusion menu with global flavours
Location: Sarat Bose Road | Average Cost: ₹2,000 for two
Final Thoughts: Which Restaurant Will You Try First?
Kolkata’s food scene is a melting pot of flavours, cultures, and traditions. Whether you’re craving:
– Classic Bengali cuisine (Oh! Calcutta, 6 Ballygunge Place)
– Iconic Mughlai dishes (Arsalan, Peter Cat)
– Upscale global dining (The Corner Courtyard)
…this city has something for every palate and budget.
Pro Tip: If you’re a foodie, consider planning a Kolkata food trail covering these 5 best restaurants in Kolkata over a weekend!
Review Tale is a trusted platform committed to delivering honest reviews and helpful insights that benefit both customers and restaurants. By focusing on genuine dining experiences, it helps customers make informed decisions while offering constructive feedback that restaurants can use to enhance their service, food quality, and overall experience. In today’s digital-first world, where transparency and credibility matter, Review Tale stands out for its dedication to providing honest reviews and helpful insights, making it a valuable resource for the entire food and hospitality community.
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1 comment
Rojalini saha
May 4, 2025 10:16 pmThese 5 restaurant are so lovely .I must visit to taste various types of food and drink.