Top Biryani Shops in Kolkata Beyond Arsalan

The debate surrounding the best biryani shop in Kolkata can be rather heated, with opinions often centered around the highly popular Arsalan Park Circus. While it is renowned for its flair and presentation, many connoisseurs of Kolkata’s culinary delights often discard it as overrated and overpriced. As someone who has traveled extensively across Kolkata’s streets and tried various biryani joints, it is evident that there are numerous hidden gems that offer a more authentic and aromatic experience.

Discovering Hidden Biryani Gems in Kolkata

During my college days, Arsalan was undeniably the go-to stop for biryani enthusiasts. However, as I ventured into the bustling streets and discovered countless hidden shops, Arsalan fell short. With a plethora of biryani joints, not all are prettily presented with rosewater and attar, which is why exploring more modest biryani shops is worth it. Here are a few of my top picks for biryani in Kolkata:

India Restaurant Hanglathorium Zam Zam Kabuliwala

Initially, many newcomers to Kolkata might prioritize Arsalan, but as they delve into the city’s culinary realm, they often realize its overreaching reputation. Here is a list of the top 5 biryani shops that I highly recommend:

India Restaurant Zam Zam Dada Boudi Shiraz Arsalan

Exploring Kolkata's Biryani Scene

Beyond the well-known and highly rated Arsalan, Kolkata is brimming with lesser-known biryani joints that offer traditional and authentic flavors. Here are a few other famous biryani spots to explore:

Oudh 1590 Kareem’s Khwab Hyderabadi Aminia Royal Indian Hotel Alibaba Sabeer Nizam Zeeeshan

While these joints have their own dedicated followings, their uniqueness and authenticity may set them apart. Each of these places offers biryanis that are deeply rooted in tradition and are loved by many for generations.

Vegetarian and Street Food Delights

While biryani is a mainstay, it's worth noting that many biryani shops in Kolkata also serve vegetarian dishes. The city's street food culture is diverse and vibrant, making it a culinary lover's paradise. Some notable examples include:

High Court Area: A bustling street with numerous outlets offering biryani and a range of other dishes, all at affordable prices. Barrackpore Station: Personally, I recommend Dada Boudi for its exceptional biryani and inviting atmosphere.

One interesting takeaway from exploring Kolkata's street food scene is the idea of a shared spice rice pot. In various parts of the city, you can find food stalls that cater to the demands of customers ordering non-vegetarian or vegetarian dishes, all while sharing a single pot of spice rice and various cooked items such as chicken, mutton, beef, fish, and prawns.

Conclusion

As a seasoned biryani connoisseur, it's important to move beyond the social perception and explore the authentic and traditional options that Kolkata has to offer. From India Restaurant to Dada Boudi, each biryani joint offers a unique taste, catering to both traditional and modern palettes. Whether you're a vegetarian or non-vegetarian, Kolkata's vibrant food scene provides endless exploration opportunities.

If you're planning a visit to Kolkata and are looking for the best biryani, we recommend exploring beyond the confined notion of Arsalan and uncovering the rich and diverse culinary universe that this city has to offer.