It’s that time of the year when Muslims across the world observe Ramzaan- the month of fasting from dawn to dusk without food or water. Though the days are spent in penance and fasting, it is after the sunset that the streets are filled with the aroma of sumptuous ramzaan food. The evening meal called iftaar is more of a feasting with yummy delicacies like kebabs, paranthas, sherbet and milky delights like falooda and dry fruit laden firnis.
If you happen to be a foodie, then Ramzaan is the perfect month to satisfy your gastronomic cravings in Kolkata. Whether you are at any of the best business hotels in Kolkata, the likes of The LaLiT Great Eastern Kolkata, or a Mughlai hotel, you can relish a range of aromatic delights here. And if you pass by some of the bustling streets of Kolkata, it will be hard for you to not get tempted by the aroma of these delicacies. Find out the places that lay out the best iftaar in Kolkata:
1- The Scoop: this place in Kolkata is a feast for the senses during ramzaan. They have been doing a special iftar menu from the past four years. The unique thing about the menu here is the absolute contrast of ingredients used in preparing dishes and the varieties available here. Do try the chilli chicken wrapped in tandoori roti, tandoori momos and the ‘swadmala’- dal and rice served with spicy chicken. If you do not want to experiment much, simply order the iftaar platter which includes dates, fruits, paneer and onion pakoras, sherbet and chana masala. This platter is available throughout the month of ramzaan, from 6 to 8 in the evening.
2- Aminia Hotel: if you want to relish the best biryani in the month of ramzaan, head straight to the Aminia hotel, which is counted among the best hotels of Kolkata for Mughlai dishes. The place serves brilliant biryani. Their mutton Awadhi biryani is simply awesome and a must-try when here. Also order the special ‘Aminia Haleem’ – a creamy sumptuous meat dish prepared with meat and lentils. It is made especially during the month of ramzaan, so do try it if you pass by the bright and colourful Zakaria Street during this time. The melt-in-the-mouth haleem is sure to leave you asking for more.
3- Sabir’s Hotel: once popular with the Afghans, this old eatery specialises in Awadhi cuisine. The place is quite famous for its legendary meat delicacy ‘The Rezala’ – which is stewed chicken, lamb or mutton. The dish tastes divine and goes very well with soft tandoori rotis. Besides Rezala, there are other dishes here, like biryani, sutli kebab and phirni (sweet rice pudding) that are worth trying. Service is quick and the food here is truly amazing and flavoursome.
4- Mallick Bazaar: mallick bazaar is another destination worth visiting during the month of Ramzaan.
While most of the places famous for iftaar meal serve spicy dishes, this place is different as it is popular for its sweet delights. Do try firni or ferni, which is a thick rice pudding served in earth clay pots and topped with dry fruits. Sevai, vermicelli noodles prepared in ghee and sugar syrup, is another delight worth savouring.
So, which of these destinations are you heading to this ramzaan?