Zakaria Street Food Walk during Ramzan!

Before opting for the Zakaria Street Food Walk; before exploring the famous Zakaria Street Food during Ramadan, keep in mind these tips. Start with a light snack, as the main dishes can be heavy. Be prepared for crowds and bring cash as most vendors don't accept cards. Don't forget to try the must-haves like haleem, mutton chaap, and phirni while exploring the khau gully. Be respectful of the customs and traditions during Ramadan by covering up and avoiding smoking and drinking in public. Finally, indulge in the flavors and aromas of the famous street food of Kolkata's Zakaria Street.

Jump to:

• Zakaria Street Food Walk- where to go
• Zakaria Street- some myth, some facts
• What you must know about Zakaria Street
• Zakaria Street Food Walk
• Top Tip
• Different years; different experiences
• Must eats at Zakaria Street During Ramadan Month
• Sherbet, Roo Afza and more
• Taskeen
• Haji Abdul Hamid
• Dilshad
• Famous Adam's Kebab Shop
• Aminia, the original
• Bombay Hotel
• Bombay Sweets
• Haji Allauddin Sweet
• Royal India Hotel
• Unnamed Shops at Zakaria street
• Here ends the foodwalk

Zakaria Street Food Walk- where to go

Connecting Rabindra Sarani with Chittaranjan Avenue in central Kolkata, Zakaria Street is the location of the biggest Ramadan market in the city, with the renowned Nakhoda Mosque also found on this street. Nearby is Mohammad Ali Park, making for a bustling and culturally rich area of the city.

Zakaria Street- some myth, some facts

What you must know about Zakaria Street

Zakaria Street Food Walk

The vibrant streets of Zakaria Street were abuzz with the sights and smells of Ramzan as I embarked on my food walk. Accompanied by a different set of people each time, I ventured through the colorful lanes, revisiting old memories and exploring new cuisines. As I navigated the winding streets, past kebab stalls and chaat stands, it was like stepping back in time to experience a little bit of history. With every dish sampled and every story shared, my experience on this food walk was truly unique and something that I will never forget!

Different years; different experiences

Zakaria Street has been a part of my life since 2016. It all started with Poorna Banerjee, who took me on a food walk to sample the street's culinary delights. Since then, I've visited Zakaria Street multiple times with friends and family, but it was Indrajit Lahiri who opened my eyes to its true potential. We took our daughter Renaissance on her first adventure to Zakaria Street in 2023.

I come back every year during Ramadan month, filled with anticipation and excitement for what's in store. The streets are alive with vendors selling fragrant delicacies that make my mouth water as soon as I catch their aroma. From crunchy samosas to juicy kebabs - there's something for everyone here!

No matter how many times I visit Zakaria Street, it never fails to surprise me with its array of flavors and aromas that can tantalize even the most discerning palate. So if you're ever in the area, don't forget to stop by Zakaria Street - you won't regret it!

Must eats at Zakaria Street During Ramadan Month

It's no secret that Zakaria Street is a food lover's paradise. From the street vendors to the mom-and-pop eateries, there's something for everyone. For years, I've been tasting my way through this culinary wonderland and have discovered some of the most delicious dishes at surprisingly affordable prices. I'm not one to take photos of my food (the results are usually less than stellar), but trust me when I say you won't want to miss out on any of these delectable treats! From succulent kebabs and juicy biryanis to mouthwatering chaats and fragrant dahiwalas, each bite is a journey into the heart and soul of India's gastronomy. So if you're ever in Zakaria Street, be sure to take a stroll down its winding alleyways - you won't regret it!

Sherbet, Roo Afza and more

Yeh Laal Rang!  5 rupees only, the charm of roadside Roof Afza!

Ah, the sweet nectar of Rooh Afza! Who can resist it? Not I. It's a refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with a hint of lemon juice. Forget about water quality; just grab a glass and indulge in the goodness of this heavenly elixir. You won't regret it! And while there is no one shop that offers the perfect glass of Rooh Afzas, my favorite uncle always has some on hand for only 5 bucks! So don't wait any longer - get your hands on some now and treat yourself to its deliciousness.

It all started with 5 bucks a glass when I first visited zakaria street in 2016. In 2023, however, I paid 20 bucks for a glass of Mango drink.

Taskeen

Think Chicken Changezi think Taskeen

Ah, Chicken Changezi! The iconic dish of Zakaria Street. The crispiness of the golden-brown fried chicken is a delight to behold, and its succulent taste melts in your mouth like butter. This legendary dish is Taskeen's claim to fame; it's a must-try for any visitor to the area. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try their grilled Katla Fish (Mahi Akbari) - though it's not typically on my list of favorites.

Taskeen is the place to be if you want to experience authentic local cuisine. If you are feeling a bit peckish, try out the Falooda - it's truly divine! The man behind the counter will happily serve it up, and trust me when I say it's worth every bite. But don't forget about Taskeen's famous tea either - definitely a must-try for any foodie!

Haji Abdul Hamid

Yaaara “Kheeri Kheeri” at Haji Abdul Hamid’

Are you looking for a place to indulge in some delicious and cheap food? Look no further than the small joint owned by Haji Abdul Hamid! His famous Kheeri Kebab is made from the mammary gland of a cow, and it is truly something to behold. To get there, take the left road from Nakhoda Masjid and follow your nose - everyone knows where to find this amazing dish! So what are you waiting for? Go on an adventure and treat yourself to some Kheeri Kebab today.

Dilshad

Then there is Dilshad Bhai and his famous Dahi Boti and Malai Kebab:

Tantalizingly delicious, Beef Malai Kebab is the dish that keeps you coming back for more! Just a stone's throw away from Haji Abdul Hamid's shop, Dilshad offers this delectable treat that just melts in your mouth. If you haven't tried it yet, I guarantee it's worth the trip!

Famous Adam's Kebab Shop

Baba Adam is there as well! Adam's Kebab Shop

If you're looking for a kebab on Zakaria Street, look no further than Adam's! Whether it's their famous Sutta Kebab or the delectable Boti Kebab, you can't go wrong with this spot. But if you really want to tantalize your taste buds, the Boti Kebab is an absolute must-try. So come on over and let Adam's tantalizing kebabs take your taste buds on a journey!

Aminia, the original

Let’s start the main course! Aminia the original:

In Zakaria Street, no visit is complete without a plate of delicious Biriyani. And for the perfect plate of Beef Biriyani, Aminia is the place to go! The rice is cooked to perfection, small koftas are delicately placed on top and a large chunk of succulent beef and oversized potato bring this dish together with an added egg for good measure. One bite and you'll be in savory heaven!

If you're looking for something to tantalize your taste buds other than Biriyani, Aminia's Beef Korma with Tandoori Roti is just the dish. Enjoy the savory gravy and perfectly cooked beef combined with hot and fresh roti for a truly delicious experience.

Bombay Hotel

Wanted another option! Bombay Hotel is there to cater!

I had the pleasure of being taken to Bombay Tea House by Indrajit Lahiri, the Mahamuskil Man himself. This shop was new to me. I knew nothing of this joint but was pleasantly surprised! I indulged in a delicious plate of Beef Champ and Roti, that left me wanting more. Though they also serve Haleem, given my aversion to Kolkata's version, I decided against it. All in all, an excellent experience!

Bombay Sweets

Kuch Meetha ho Jaye! Bombay Sweets: 

Indrajit Lahiri has suggested this remarkable place, where one can get the most delectable dry fruit Halva. It's so tasty that it will leave you craving more! Besides the Halva, Sevian and local cookies are also available here - making this shop a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

This post was written in 2016 but now this shop has been closed 🙁 .

Haji Allauddin Sweet

Gulab Jamoon khaya keya! Haji Allauddin Sweet:

If you're looking for a delicious dessert experience, go to the Haji Allauddin for Gulab Jamun. The sweet smell of sugary syrup will draw you in, and when you taste it, your taste buds won't be able to resist the irresistible treat. Not only is the Gulab Jamun delicious, but they also have Khooya Laddu, Battishi Halwa and Aflatun that are out of this world! And don't forget their Pakoda fried in ghee - it's a must try!

Royal India Hotel

Last but not the least, Royal India Hotel:

If you're in Kolkata during the holy month of Ramadan and iftar is on your mind, look no further than Royal Indian Hotel. Serving up some of the most tantalizing Awadhi Biriyani around, it's the perfect place to break your fast. Whether it's alone or with friends, surely a meal here will be one to remember!

I was born and raised in the heart of the city, with Royal Indian Hotel a part of my life. My father and I often visited, but my Baba was an avowed fan of their offerings. The Biriyani with Pasinda Kebab is still my favorite dish from there, though I have been tempted to explore more than just that! But this isn't only about Royal Indian Hotel; it's about much more than that.

Unnamed Shops at Zakaria street

Zakaria Street is a haven for culinary explorers! From Malai with sugar and fluffy Bakharkhani to local-made biscuits and Sevian to Firni, the street is a wonderland of sweet treats. But it doesn't end there - visitors can also sample Sharbet, Fruits, Dahi Bhalla and Haleem from the many vendors that line the street. While some of these establishments have names, there are plenty of lesser-known shops worth exploring too. So take a stroll down Zakaria Street and be prepared to indulge in all manner of delicious delights!

Here ends the foodwalk

As I bid farewell to Chitpur, my heart filled with a bittersweet longing. After all this time, I was finally ready to part ways with the place that had become so dear to me. But before leaving, I made sure to grab my portion of Aqua Ptychotis - a reminder of my time here that would stay with me until our paths crossed once more. Until then, sayonara and shiawasena shokuji!

P.S: I visit the area adjacent to Nakhoda Masjid, Zakaria Street, and Kolootola quite often and I do have a Flikr album with the pictures! Do check it here if you wish to.

Disclaimer: The Zakaria Street food walk in Kolkata during Ramzan is immensely popular these days. However, I do visit the area many times during the entire year. This Post is totally based on my preference for what to eat there.