Durga Puja in Kolkata isn’t just a spectacle of lights, art, and devotion—it’s also a culinary carnival. As pandals glow through the night and dhaaks set the rhythm of celebration, the city’s dining scene comes alive with festive menus, iconic Bengali feasts, and global flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional thalis, lavish buffets, or street-side indulgence, here’s a handpicked guide to the best places to eat this Puja season.
1. Hyatt Centric Ballygunge – Dhaak, Dhol, Dhunuchi & More
Step into the vibrant ambiance of YAYAvar, where a five-day festive spread awaits. Expect an indulgent line-up featuring Kosha Mangsho, Basanti Pulao, crispy Alu Bhaja, Begun Bhaja, and the quintessential Kolkata Biryani. Perfect for those who want the full Mahabhoj experience.
Where: 17 Garcha 1st Lane, Ballygunge, Kolkata – 700019
When: 8th – 13th October 2024
Timings: Lunch 12:30 pm – 4:00 pm | Dinner 7:00 pm – 11:30 pm | Midnight 12:00 am – 3:00 am
Call: 033 3521 1234
2. JW Marriott Kolkata – The Grandest Puja Buffet
Known for its opulent spreads, JW Marriott sets the festive tone with live music, global favorites, and classic Bengali flavors. Their “Mahabhoj” at the ballroom is especially sought-after, combining tradition with grandeur.
Where: 4A, JBS Haldane Avenue, Tangra, Kolkata – 700105
- JW Kitchen (9th – 13th Oct): Lunch 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm | Dinner 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Midnight 12:00 am – 3:00 am
- Ballroom – Mahabhoj (10th – 12th Oct): Lunch 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm
4. Ambrosia – Soulful Bengali Flavors
Ambrosia’s Pujo menu stays true to tradition. From golden samosas and Basanti Pulao to Dokar Dalna, Dhakai Parathas, and Cholar Dal with Radha Ballavi, every dish carries the warmth of a festive Bengali household.
Where: 90/B Hazra Road, near UCO Bank, Kolkata
When: 9th – 13th October 2024
Timings: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Direct Orders: 98300 24338
5. Hard Rock Cafe Kolkata – Rock Meets Rasoi
At Park Street’s iconic Hard Rock Cafe, Pujo meals come with a musical twist. Feast on Hyderabadi Biryani, Malabar Curry, Paneer Butter Masala, and funky bites like Kasundi Bhetki and Orange Tequila Prawns. Perfect for festive evenings with friends.
Where: 57-A Park Street, Taltala, Kolkata – 700016
When: 9th – 13th October 2024
Timings: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Call: +91 98317 36963
6. 6 Ballygunge Place – Aristocratic Bengali Dining
Step into a restored Raj-era mansion and dine like the zamindars. The buffet here is as much about the grand décor as the food—classic Bengali thalis, elaborate spreads, and a cultural experience rolled into one.
Where: 6, Ballygunge Place, Ballygunge, Kolkata – 700019
7. Aminia – The Biryani Legacy
No Puja feast is complete without biryani, and Aminia has been serving it since 1929. Their legendary Aminia Special biryani remains a crowd-puller, perfect for those midnight cravings after pandal-hopping.
Where: Multiple outlets across Kolkata (New Market, Shyam Bazaar, Golpark, etc.)
8. Devi Chowdhurani – Homestyle Bengali Thalis
For a meal that feels like home, Devi Chowdhurani is a Pujo favorite. Their thalis are rich with Shorshe Ilish, Chingri Malaikari, Luchi–Aloo Dum, Shukto, and seasonal sweets. The menu is rooted in tradition, offering a comforting dining experience amid the festive rush.
Where: DN Block, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700091
Call: 070030 30425
9. The Garden Restaurant – A Leafy Festive Escape
If you’re craving good food in a serene setting away from the pandal bustle, The Garden Restaurant offers a refreshing retreat. Known for its open-air, green ambiance and hearty family buffets, their Puja menu blends Bengali favorites with continental staples—perfect for large groups or relaxed family outings.
Where: 46, Street Number 10, DN Block, Sector V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700091
Call: 062899 24740
10. Street Food Trails – Rolls, Biryani & More
For those who prefer eating on the move, Kolkata’s streets offer unbeatable Puja bites:
- Rolls: Nizams or Baadshah (Esplanade), Kusum (Park Street), Bedwin (Gariahat)
- Biryani: Shiraz, Zeeshan, Mezban, Royal
- Sweets: Bhim Nag (ledikini), Girish Chandra Dey & Nakul Chandra Nandy (sandesh), KC Das (rosogolla)
- Other classics: Puchka, Jhal Muri, Ghugni Chaat, Mughlai Paratha, Aloo Chop
Nothing captures the festive spirit quite like eating off a paper plate while hopping pandals.
11. Farzi Café – Quirky Festive Plates
Known for its creative spins, Farzi Café celebrates Pujo with unique dishes like Kosha Mangsho Tacos and Baked Chocolate Rosogolla. A treat for adventurous foodies.
Where: 18, Camac Street, Park Street Area, Kolkata – 700016
12. Hungry Sardar at Olterra – Park Street’s New Star
This modern restaurant has quickly earned a Puja following. The festive spread includes Mochar Chop, Achari Chaap, Sorshe Mach, Bhetki Paturi, Prawn Malai Curry, and the famous Golbari Kosha Mangsho.
Where: Olterra, 20G Park Street, Kolkata – 700016
Final Words
Kolkata Durga Puja 2025 — a festival where food is as essential as art, lights, and devotion. The city transforms into a gourmet playground where luxury hotels serve up lavish buffets, heritage restaurants plate up timeless Bengali recipes, and streets overflow with rolls, puchkas, and sweets that carry the spirit of Pujo in every bite.
Whether you’re indulging in the aristocratic setting of 6 Ballygunge Place, digging into a hearty thali at Devi Chowdhurani, savoring the greenery at The Garden Restaurant, or simply grabbing a puchka while hopping pandals, Kolkata makes sure no appetite goes unsatisfied during these five magical days.
This Puja, eat your way through the city—because in Kolkata, food isn’t just a part of the celebration, it is the celebration.
