"Where to eat and why it matters in the world's best food cities." That's the tagline for Eater, an award-winning digital media brand dedicated to all things food and dining which publishes a list of the world's best culinary destinations every year. And their 2023 list featured the city of foodies, Kolkata. One of the best street foods in Kolkata is the iconic fish fry. This dish is commonly found at both restaurants and street stalls, and it is also a popular item at banquets.

　　The Kolkata fish fry is made by marinating flaky Kolkata bhetki fish with fresh herbs, garlic, onions, and spices. After marination, the fish is breaded and deep-fried. It is typically served with lime wedges, raw onion slices, and kasundi, which is Bengal's zesty mustard sauce.

　　The Kolkata fish fry is a unique dish that combines British fish and chips with Bengali ingredients. It's inspired by the British colonial era and is made with bhetki fish fillets. Indian cooks in colonial Calcutta adapted the dish to local tastes, relying on bhetki fillets for their delicate texture and flavour.

　　Local residents are passionate about their fish fry preferences, often considering the small stalls and cabins around the city as the "true home" for the "best" versions of this dish. If you ask any Kolkata native for their top fish fry spot, you’re likely to receive a multitude of recommendations, as everyone has their personal favourite. Creating a definitive list of the "best fish fry places" can lead to spirited debates among food enthusiasts, as various establishments have their unique recipes and styles. Nevertheless, it’s worth exploring the many options this culinary treasure has to offer. Here’s a selection to consider when embarking on your fish fry journey in Kolkata.

　　Mitra Cafe

　　Mitra Cafe is an iconic eatery and one of the few cabins with other branches. Serving delicious food since 1920, its name means "Friends Café" in English, and perfectly encapsulates the warm and welcoming atmosphere you'll find here. Their brain chop and mutton cutlet are legendary, and it's no surprise that the queue outside the restaurant has never diminished. The kabirajis are undeniably scrumptious and have earned Mitra Café a loyal following over the years, including Bengali superstar Uttam Kumar and singer-actor Anjan Dutt. Whether you choose to sit in the traditional outdoor space with its old wooden furniture or in the fully air-conditioned indoor space, you'll be surrounded by the rich history and charm of this beloved establishment.

　　Address: 47, Jatindra Mohan Ave, Raja Nabakrishna Street, Sovabazar, Shobhabazar - 700005

　　Radhu Babu Chayer Dokan

　　According to Kolkata legend, this tea shop was established in 1933 by Radha Kishore Datta, who is said to have been a revolutionary dedicated to India’s freedom. Now known as Radhu Babu Chayer Dokan or Radhu Babu's Tea Shop, it is considered one of Kolkata’s first tea shops. Over the years, the shop has welcomed many prominent figures, including Russi Mody, Uttam Kumar, and Raj Kapoor. The shop offers more than 20 items each day, along with a variety of teas. Some of the delectable offerings include Mutton Stew, Chicken Roast, Bengali-style cutlets, and fish fingers. One standout dish is the Special Fish Fry, with a light golden-hued batter.

　　Address: 8A, Near Janak Rd, Lake Market, Kalighat - 700029

　　Apanjan

　　Tucked away in Kalighat, this small eatery has been delighting locals with its exceptional fish fry for decades. Known for its signature dish, the Fish Fry served with crispy chips and a refreshing salad is truly a culinary masterpiece. Each bite of the fry offers a satisfying crunch as you break through the golden, crumb-coated exterior to reveal perfectly cooked, flaky fish that simply melts in your mouth. The zingy kasundi completes this delicious snack, providing an extra kick. With its long-standing reputation, this eatery remains a beloved destination for those seeking a taste of culinary nostalgia in the heart of the city.

　　Address: 58, Sadananda Rd, Anami Sangha, Kalighar - 700026

　　Chittoda’s Suruchee Restaurant

　　Nestled near Kolkata’s bustling Esplanade area, Dacre’s Lane is a historic food lane that captures the essence of the city's street food culture. This narrow stretch is alive with the vibrant energy of street food vendors, drawing in folks from government and private offices in the area. Chittoda’s Suruchee stands out as a beloved hotspot among the myriad of enticing stalls. Renowned for its legendary Diamond Fish Fry, this mouthwatering dish features a delightfully light and perfectly crisp coating, allowing the flavours of the thick, succulent Bhetki fish to shine. Each serving comes accompanied by a fresh salad and a tangy kasundi, a traditional Bengali mustard sauce that adds an extra zing to the meal. The tender fish and the vibrant condiments make it a must-try for anyone navigating this flavourful lane.

　　Address: 2, James Hickey Sarani, Esplanade, Chowringhee North, Bow Barracks - 700069