According to you, what is the best way to feel the atmosphere of a place? If you ask us, we feel it can only happen by living, eating and moving around like the locals. For instance, you can never get a taste of Mumbai without travelling in a train and eating at roadside carts. Similarly, in Kolkata, you have to explore the bazaars and food markets to get a holistic idea of ​​the socio-economic conditions of the people. Visiting the market every morning is a part of their daily ritual. Finding fresh fish and seasonal produce, chatting with acquaintances about society and politics, and drinking ‘doodh-chai’ at a street corner has always been the quintessential idea of ​​a market for most Bengalis. In this article, we will introduce you to a part of the classic market culture of Bengal, while also highlighting some of the most popular food markets in Kolkata. Let’s begin.
Also read: 10 hidden gems you must try to experience the taste of Kolkata
10 Popular Food Markets in Kolkata:
1. Dacres Lane:
Dacres Lane, also known as ‘Office Para’ (Office Area), has a history of over 200 years and carries forward the legacy left by the British. Named after the former collector of the then Calcutta, Milner Dacres, the area has today become a hotspot for some of the most satisfying food in the city, that too at affordable prices. From delicious lassi, tea, rolls and fish chops to wholesome rice meals, you will find a variety of roadside shops in this area selling food items that cater to all your needs. Three food joints you must try in Dacres Lane are Chitto Babar Dokan, Arun Da’s Joy Mara Tara Hotel and Sheetla Udipi House.
Where: James Hickey Sarani, Esplanade
how to reach: The nearest metro station is Esplanade. Exit at ‘Esplanade Junction’ and walk for two minutes to reach Dacres Lane. You will also find local bus services from Esplanade.
2. Tiretti Bazaar:
Simply put, Tiretti Bazaar is a market within a market. It looks like a typical vegetable market, but the moment you step inside, the magic begins. It is the hub of authentic Chinese breakfast. The breakfast market starts at 5 am and ends by 8 am. From homemade sausages, momos and fish ball soup to fried wontons and pork rolls, you find everything on both sides of the streets.
Where: 23/1, Chatawala Lane, Near Poddar Court, Tiretti
how to reach: The nearest metro station is the Central Metro Station. You have to exit at Poddar Court and then, it is a five-minute walk from there. But we suggest taking a bus or cab early in the morning to reach your destination easily.
Also read: 5 iconic restaurants in Kolkata’s Park Street where you must try delicious cuisine
3. Zakaria Street:
The history of Kolkata is influenced by the influences of various cultures and communities. And Zakari Street is one such place to experience Mughal culture in the city. Located right next to the historic Nakhoda Mosque of Kolkata, this place offers you the most authentic Mughlai taste. Explore the streets and try kebabs, nihari, biryani, haleem, sheermal, rabri and more.
Location: Zakaria Street, Kolutola, Burrabazar Market
How to reach: It is located between Barabazar and Chitpur. Get down at Central metro station or MG Road metro station and walk for 10 minutes to reach Nakhoda Masjid. And this is where the road starts.
4. Shyambazar:
One of the oldest food joints in the city, Shyambazar is located in North Kolkata. The place is always busy and offers a wide variety of delicious food items. From the mango shakes you get at the metro station to the chaats at Hathibagan and more, you will find many delicious street food across the area. And yes, don’t forget to try the phuchkas at Byline.
Location: Shyambazar Market, 128/1, Bidhan Sarani, Shyambazar, Five Point Crossing
How to Reach: Get down at Shyambazar metro station and you will be looking for just the food and drinks there.
5. Gariahat Market:
Many of you might know Gariahat as the hub of Kolkata’s flea market. From clothes to fancy jewellery, you find everything here. But did you know that the place also has a fresh vegetable market? The Gariahat Sabzi Mandi sells fresh, local vegetables and fish that are consumed daily in Bengali households. In fact, you will see people thronging the market early in the morning to find the vegetables of their choice and end their day with delicious Desi breakfast like Luchi-Torkari, Petai Porta, Dim-Toast and Doodh Cha.
Location: Gariahat Market Welfare Committee, Purbapara, Kamdahari
How to Reach: Take a bus from your place and get down at Gariahat Bus Stop or Golpark Bus Stop and walk for 3-4 minutes maximum.
6. Hog Market:
From dairy products to fresh produce and fine meat, you get everything here. In fact, if the locals are to be believed, the Hog Market is considered to be the hub of almost every imported and domestic food product you could find under the sun. And if you are tired of your grocery shopping, take a break and enjoy the locally made cookies, pastries, and patties sold at the local shops.
Location: SSB 22, Humayun Place, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala
How to reach: The nearest metro station is Esplanade. Exit at New Market and walk for a maximum of two minutes.
8. Jaan Bazar Spice Market:
If you want to buy good quality spices at wholesale prices, all you need to do is take some time to visit the Jan Bazaar spice market. Just like Khari Baoli in Delhi, this place also sells a wide variety of whole and ground spices. In fact, you even get the facility to grind the spices as per your preference.
Location: H964+R7H, SN Banerjee Road, New Market Area, Janbazar
How to Reach: The fastest way to reach Jaan Bazar is via local bus.
9. Patipukur Fish Market:
Are you looking for the best quality salmon? Planning to buy Hilsa imported from Bangladesh? You will get it all at wholesale rates at Patipukur fish market. In fact, this place gives you a good idea of ​​Bengalis and their immense love for fish. So, to experience the Bengali food habit, we suggest visiting this fish market and enjoy the experience. Pro tip: Visit this place early in the morning to enjoy the hustle and bustle and the freshest fish.
Location: Khudiram Bose Sarani, Patipukur Fish Market, Khudiram Bose Road, Dutta Bagan, Paikpara
10. Poppy Market:
Poppy Bazaar, a wholesale commodity market, came into existence in the mid-19th century when India was still under British rule. It was primarily used as a stocking market, but over time, Poppy quickly became a huge commercial market serving as a distribution point for eastern India. Rice, in particular, contributed to its growth as new areas were rapidly developed in the hinterland of South Bengal. By the mid-twentieth century, Poppy Bazaar captured the entire eastern India in the trade of essential food commodities and became the largest market in terms of volume, variety and transaction value. It today holds its place as a major market for pulses, edible and vegetable oil, sugar, flour, salt, groundnuts, jaggery, wheat products and much more.
Location: Jadulal Mullick Road, PS Jorabagan KMC Ward No. 24
How to reach: Located on Strand Road, Poppy Market or Posta Bazar is just north of central Kolkata and is surrounded by areas like Burrabazar, Jorasanko and Jorabagan. You will find buses from different routes to reach Posta Bazar.
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