Kolkata the city, my hometown in eastern India has always been a hub of literacy and artistic thoughts with its constant influence from cultures all over the world. It was an Indian capital under British rule and then became an important place for freedom and other socio-economic-religious movements. It had also ever since being a center of constant literature, art and theater activities. Obviously such activities needed several meetings, greetings and prolific discussions(“Adda” as we say in Bengali) and used to take place in the roadside tea stalls and sweet/snack(chop — a term used for fried snacks) shops. As western culture started influencing more, Kolkata saw a set of cafes coming up— some old timers being the legendary Indian Coffee House, Flury’s and few other on the Park Street / Central Avenue area.
For quite sometime, we were happy with these along with two popular chains Cafe Coffee Day and Barista in places. However, my recent years visits to Kolkata came as a big surprise as I encountered a series of new cafes which are uniquely styled and carries a charm of its own. I have mostly noted them around the Lake area in South Kolkata or Bhowanipore. I could get an idea by now of what are the good cafes to visit and thought of listing down my liked ones( with random order) if someone wants to try. They all have separate list of favorites for me :)
- Mrs.Magpie
The first time I visited this place in Lake Terrace in 2016 perhaps, I got a sense of what a high quality bakery means. The cakes were not the typical rectangular chocolate and vanilla flavors that are found in several other bakery. They were frosted cupcakes with delicate designs. The place is small and looks like a toy house. The menu has both sweet and savory dishes which will make a good bite while you enjoy an evening with your friends.
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2. Roastery Coffee House
I never noticed this place till 2018, seems an old house was transformed in Gariahat area, but they kept the structure and some of the old designs intact. In fact the white and black mosaic floor which is a typical design in old houses catch the eyes easily. The outside ground balcony (Dalan as is known colloquially) is taken up by iron designed white tables and chairs looking elegant. Their menu is elaborate with interesting choice of coffees from around India and abroad with blended flavors e.g. Brownie Coffee, Cranberry Coffee etc.
3. 8th Day Café and Bakery
The location is one of my favorites, beside Vivekananda Park, Southern Avenue. Just after a day or evening walk, going and sitting in this small café would bring delight and relaxation. The menu is ordinary but they serve great bagels and omelets in the morning. You can enjoy a sumptuous All American breakfast here. They do serve some pies like apple, pumpkin pies.
4. The Wise Owl Café and Steakhouse
This is located on Purna Das road. Don’t consider this as a full fledged steakhouse. Their menu contains what all other coffee shops have - flavorful sandwiches, pasta, pizza, soup, wings, fries etc. along with a list of steaks and sizzlers. By locals, the common ones are the fish steaks and mixed grilled sizzlers. It has a cozy rooftop dining area too which needs to be requested for. The place is a bit small and usually have long wait times on weekends.
5. Paris Cafe
A typical European styled café with a very charming and elegant look ( a picture is a must) in the Ballygunge area. It also serves American breakfasts. Their food presentations are very nice. Rainbow cake, Red velvet cake and macaroons are great to have here. Do try the savory bites like quiches, paninis etc.
