Backpacking India 22/129: Kolkata street food - Kolkata beef curry roti, India

Backpacking India 22/129: Kolkata street food - Kolkata beef curry roti, India

When talking about Kolkata or what many still know by its old name “Calcutta,” this large city on the banks of the Hooghly River is not only rich in history and bustling city life but also a true paradise for street food lovers. Especially the beef curry roti dish that I, mr.hotsia, have tried extensively and must share without hesitation.

I started in the heart of Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal state, which was once the capital of India during the British colonial era. The chaotic streets mixed with the scent of spices and smoke from charcoal stoves give this area a unique charm. For those interested in reading more about Kolkata, you can follow the articleBackpacking in Kolkatawhich I, mr.hotsia, have written in great detail.

From my direct experience, finding beef curry roti in Kolkata requires more patience and an open mind than expected. Most street food stalls open from 1 PM onwards because locals usually have tea and light snacks for breakfast only. (If you want to know more about Indian tea in depth, I recommend the articleIndian Tea in Kolkata)

The beef curry roti stalls I found have an open-air atmosphere. Some set tables and chairs on the sidewalk, while others are in small, busy alleys. Ordering food here requires courage and blending in with the locals because they eat with their hands, mixing rice and intensely flavored curry. The roti here is different from the usual ones we know; it is crispy outside, soft inside, with a fragrant dough mixed with some spices perfectly balanced. When dipped in the rich, spicy but not overly burning beef curry, it becomes a meal that you will crave and want to eat again.

For anyone planning to visit Kolkata, I, mr.hotsia, recommend stopping byRoti dipped in curry stall, a street food vendor in KolkataThis is one of my favorite stalls because besides the delicious food, the atmosphere truly captures the street life of Kolkata locals.

Street life and local markets

After enjoying the beef curry roti, I strolled to the Kolkata morning market, which I have described in the articleKolkata Morning MarketThis is another place that clearly represents Kolkata. The way vendors carry goods on their heads and the sharp knife fish cutting reminded me of an ancient city still alive.

This morning market is full of color and liveliness, offering fresh vegetables, fruits, spices, and local foods to choose from. I also tried fresh coconut water from the market front, which was sweet and very refreshing. (If you want to know how to choose fresh coconut water in Kolkata, readFresh coconut water at Kolkata market)

Visiting markets in Kolkata is an eye-opening experience about food and culture because here you see the real life of locals, not just beautiful tourist spots.

Transportation and accommodation in Kolkata

For getting around the city, I, mr.hotsia, recommend using Uber Taxi because local taxis often overcharge, and communicating in English with some locals can be challenging. Another important tip is to book hotels in advance for convenience, as finding hotels on the spot in Kolkata is not easy. The hotel I stayed at is Hotel Victerrace, costing about 1000 THB per night, located within walking distance to Victoria Memorial. (Read more details inHotels in Kolkata)

Most accommodations in Kolkata have in-house restaurants, but if you want to experience real street food, you can walk out to find food nearby. Just remember that most restaurants and cafes open from 1 PM onwards.

Summary of my Kolkata experience from mr.hotsia's perspective

Kolkata is a city full of vibrancy and cultural diversity. After spending several days traveling and experiencing it, I, mr.hotsia, clearly see that street food like beef curry roti is not just ordinary food but part of the lifestyle and pride of the locals. Eating this dish on the bustling streets, surrounded by the scent of spices and the chatter of people, made me feel that visiting Kolkata is not just a trip but an immersion into authentic culture.

If you are an adventurous traveler who loves to fully enjoy local food, I, mr.hotsia, recommend you try experiencing Kolkata at least once. I guarantee you will have unforgettable stories to bring home.

Watch the videoBackpacking India 22/129: Kolkata street food - Kolkata beef curry roti, IndiaTo see the real atmosphere and feel the street food experience in Kolkata that I, mr.hotsia, encountered