Ankita Naskar
Kolkata has built a strong reputation for its delectable non-vegetarian food, especially its famous fish items. But what many don’t realise is that the city has a burgeoning vegetarian food scene, with numerous creative restaurants dishing out excellent vegetarian cuisine. From unique all-veggie cafes to reinvented classics, Kolkata offers a range of vegetarian dining experiences.
This article covers seven of the most delicious vegetarian restaurants in Kolkata that offer everything from pure vegetarian thalis and comfort food curries to innovative international vegetable creations perfect for savouring hearty vegetarian meals.
1. Piccadilly Square
Piccadilly Square Cafe offers an Instagram-worthy setting and delectable vegetarian Italian fare in elegant yet homely surroundings. The gorgeous interiors featuring paintings, vintage lamps, wall decor, and faux windows create an aesthetically pleasing environment that attracts photography enthusiasts.
The restaurant serves incredible vegetarian Italian cuisine along with eggless desserts and cakes that truly satisfy the senses. Diners can indulge in thin-crust pizzas, succulent pastas, and melt-in-the-mouth pancakes or crepes for a sweet finish.
The serene, laid-back ambiance makes Piccadilly Square ideal for romantic dinners, coffee dates, or casual hangouts with friends.
While menu prices tend to be on the higher side, diners get exceptional value for money in the restaurant’s Instagram-perfect decor, beautifully crafted and masterfully executed vegetarian Italian fare, and ambient setting that combine to create a truly memorable dining experience for those looking to escape into elegant yet homely surroundings while indulging in sumptuous vegetarian meals.
Address: No. 15-B, Ground Floor, Mintu Park Techno City Shop, Sarat Bose Rd., Bhowanipore, Kolkata
2. Kaidi Kitchen
Kaidi Kitchen offers a unique dining experience with its innovative prison-themed decor and imaginative multi-cuisine menu. This novel restaurant transports diners to another world through its carefully constructed prison setting, complete with jail cells that can be reserved for a more immersive meal.
In addition to its arresting ambiance, Kaidi Kitchen entices customers with a wide selection of flavorful international fare, including Indian, Chinese, Mexican, and Italian cuisine. Guests rave about the restaurant’s thoughtfully crafted dishes across multiple genres that make the most of seasonal produce and high-quality ingredients.
Kaidi Kitchen’s imaginative concept brings a welcome dash of whimsy to Kolkata’s dining scene while serving up comforting meals in a one-of-a-kind environment.
Address: 12A, Abanindra Nath, Thakur Sarani, Camac Street Area, Kolkata
3. Flying Kouzina
The second theme restaurant on our list is Flying Kouzina. It offers diners a unique flying experience right in Kolkata through its innovative aircraft-themed decor and delicious vegetarian Continental cuisine.
Stepping into Flying Kouzina is like boarding a first-class lounge, transporting guests to the comfort of an airline VIP area without the hassle of air travel. The restaurant creatively recreates the atmosphere of an aircraft cabin, complete with economy and lounge seating areas as well as air hostess service. In addition to its imaginative theme, Flying Kouzina delights patrons with a vegetarian menu showcasing masterfully crafted European fare like handcrafted pizzas, risottos, and pastas. The restaurant’s creative concept and flavorful cuisine make it an outstanding choice for vegetarians seeking a novel dining experience in the heart of Salt Lake City.
Address: AD 73, Near BD Market Bus Stop, Sector 1, Salt Lake City, Kolkata
4. Anand
Anand restaurant in Chandni Chowk has been delighting vegetarian food lovers for many years with its authentic South Indian cuisine. Specialising in dosas, idlis, and traditional coconut-based curries, Anand’s vegetarian thalis and wholesome dishes have garnered a loyal following among both strict vegetarians and non-vegetarians seeking delicious vegetarian food at reasonable prices.
Diners are transported to South India with Anand’s homely but thoughtful presentation of Kerala-style vegetarian fare and soothing ambiance, making it a favourite spot for both casual meals with family and more formal dining occasions.
The restaurant continues to attract a discerning clientele keen on enjoying flavorful South Indian comfort food that highlights the freshness of seasonal vegetables.
Address: 19, C.R. Avenue, Near Dalhousie Square Area, Chandni Chowk, Kolkata
5. Bombay Shiv Sagar
Bombay Shiv Sagar has been delighting vegetarian food lovers for nearly two decades with its delectable South and North Indian as well as Chinese vegetarian fare. The casual dining restaurant is renowned for its innovative Chinese Bhel – a must-try for any diner. Their vast menu also caters beautifully to Jain palates, with numerous Jain versions of popular Indian dishes available upon request.
The restaurant’s iconic status among vegetarian foodies in the city stems from the consistently flavorful and masterfully cooked, wide-ranging cuisine on offer.
The restaurant continues to keep vegetarian food lovers – both Jain and non-Jain alike – coming back time and again for their beloved South Indian, North Indian, and Chinese vegetarian classics.
Address: 1st Floor, Pantaloons Building, Block B, 22, Camac Street Area, Kolkata
6. Casa Restaurant
Casa restaurant in Minto Park aims to showcase the joys of pure vegetarian cuisine through its delectable North Indian fare and thoughtful menu. The establishment primarily focuses on highlighting the health, ethical, and environmental benefits of a plant-based diet through the quality and appeal of its deliciously prepared vegetarian meals.
Casa is renowned for its melt-in-the-mouth kebabs, especially the restaurant’s iconic paneer tikka, which showcases the chef’s mastery of North Indian comfort food. Diners also rave about being able to pair their choice of curry with naan or paratha selections. The menu further offers a range of nutritious mocktails and cocktails, as well as a corporate lunch menu for catering occasions.
Address: 234/1, Hotel Casa Fortuna, A.J.C. Bose Road, Minto Park, Kolkata
7. 1000 BC
Despite its ancient-sounding name, 1000 BC is a new addition to the list of Kolkata’s vegetarian restaurants. The restaurant aims to offer luxurious fine dining for vegetarians through its elegant decor and refined menu.
The restaurant primarily serves Italian and continental cuisine, with a North Indian option as well. Diners should definitely try their creative fusion fondu, a twist on the classic Swiss dish, if dining with a partner.
The romantic and serene ambiance created through dim lighting makes 1000 BC perfect for an intimate dinner or date. Fine details like plush furnishings and ambient music provide an upscale experience for vegetarian diners seeking a sophisticated yet relaxing night out.
Address: Ground Floor, 1, Camac Street, Park Street Area, Kolkata
Kolkata’s rich vegetarian dining culture reflects the city’s spirit of inclusivity and diversity, with numerous restaurants skillfully catering to vegetarian diners through creative and carefully crafted vegetarian menus within welcoming atmospheres. The range of options showcased here represents only a sampling of the amazing vegetarian fare and ambiance on offer for vegetarian food lovers in the city.
If you’re in the city or planning to visit soon, make sure to try out these vegetarian restaurants for an amazing and soulful experience.