Apart from having immense love for fishes, Kolkatans are known to be intellectuals. No wonder, College Street ( affectionately called boi para) is very close to the heart of the city peeps. There is a strange bliss in walking past the quaint shops stacked with an infinite number of books. Interestingly, it is known as India’s largest book market and Asia’s largest second-hand book market.
If you’re a bookworm, you must visit College Street, as you can find some rarest and oldest paperbacks here. And if you can haggle, you can also get the books at cheaper prices. Replete with old-world charm, the vibe embracing College Street is simply magical. Also, the iconic book market houses some legendary eateries that offer lip-smacking snacks, beverages, and much more. Here is a list of 5 such eateries:
1. Indian Coffee House
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Albert Hall, founded in 1876, was transformed into a coffee house in 1942 by the Coffee Board. Since then, it has been the meeting place for students, officegoers and other intellectuals. Writers, directors and politicians would have long discussions here over several cups of coffee (and cigarettes too). Infusion coffee or black coffee is highly popular at the eatery.
Earlier, intellectuals used to order infusion due to its high caffeine content to work for long hours. Indian Coffee House, College Street serves a lighter, energising version of cold coffee. You will also love their fish fries, cutlets and sandwiches. And the dishes are unbelievably easy-on-the-pocket. Infusion coffee comes at just ₹18 at the heritage lunchroom.
Where: 15, Bankim Chatterjee Street, Near College Street, Kolkata
When: 9 AM to 9 PM
Cost: ₹300 for two people ( approx.)
2. Paramount Sherbats And Syrups
Paramount, dating back to 1918, is the favourite shop of Kolkatans for juices and shakes. The daab sherbat here is to die for. The kesar malai is equally good. If you had a hectic day of shopping at the book market, Paramount can quench your thirst in the most delicious way. The juice shop has received the esteemed Culinary Heritage Award from the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage.
Where: 1/1/1D, Bankim Chatterjee Street, College Square, College Street, Kolkata
When: 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Cost: ₹250 for two ( approx.)
4. Dilkhusha Cabin
The eatery that had come into existence more than a century ago as part of the cabin culture is now a popular heritage eatery in the city’s heart. The cabin culture had emerged to keep women away from public view inside curtained cabins when they dined with their families. We are happy that women are more independent now and happier, as Dilkhush Cabin still serves the authentic snacks it used to serve a hundred years before. The chicken biryani and fish kabiraji are must-tries here.
Where: Building 88, Near College Street Crossing, MG Road, College Street, Kolkata
When: 12:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Cost: ₹300 for two ( approx.)
5. YMCA Canteen
YMCA Canteen in College street attracts a large number of foodies with its aromatic, simple and delicious stews. You can try chicken stew, mutton stew as well as veg stew here. The canteen also serves fried rice with chilli chicken and keema curry.
Where:53/5, Near Kolkata Avenue City, College Street, Kolkata
When: 6 AM to 9 PM
Cost: ₹200 for two ( approx.)
Do we need anything more when there are good books coupled with delish food?