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Where do chefs eat when they clock out? In our special series, Off-Duty Chef, we ask some of the most popular chefs about their favourite food spots in and around their cities. From their go-to street food haunts and their childhood favourites to their work lunches and post-work hangs, the series will offer you a glimpse of where your favourite chefs eat, drink and hang out when they’re not feeding others!
Known for her nuanced approach to regional Indian cuisine, Chef Anumitra Ghosh Dastidar does much more than crafting lip-smacking plates. Spending her childhood in Kolkata and opening up queer-friendly restaurants, Edible Archives in Goa and Bento Bento in Bengaluru, the chef knows the ins and outs of the best food spots in the country.
So, this Pride Month, Slurrp interviewed Chef Ghosh, off the kitchen, to know more about her favourite food spots. And rightfully so, as who would be a better person to ask for recommendations than the co-founder of Edible Archives and the chef who’s known for her love for Kolkata’s regional cuisine? If you want to know the hidden gems in Goa and Kolkata, read this Slurrp exclusive interview.
Growing up in Kolkata, can you share your all-time favourite breakfast spots?
Actually, there are many. Some of my top favourites are Sree Hari Mistanna Bhandar, which is on Hazra Road and Adi Haridas Modak in Shyambazar for luchi and dal. And there’s also another place in Chinatown called Ah Leung where I frequently go for wontons.
What are your tea spots in Kolkata?
My go-to place for tea in Kolkata is Dolly's The Tea Shop. It’s located in the Dakhinapan Shopping Complex.
In reference to your restaurants, can you recommend your favourites from the menu?
In Edible Archives, I would recommend people try our Mustard Prawns with Goan sannas, Asian Tomato Salad, Shaanxi-style Brinjal and Long Beans, and, of course, Congee. As for Bento Bento in Bengaluru, I’d highly recommend chilli caramel fish and caramelised pork.
What are some of your favourite regional street foods and desserts?
In Kolkata, I’ve grown up loving puchkas. My favourite puchka joints are in Gariahat, Dakhinapan. I also love jhalmuri and rolls from the local street food corners. Whenever I’m in Kolkata, I only go for Bengali sweets, and my all-time favourite is sandesh from Bhim Chandra Nag.
As for Goa, there’s a small place between Mapusa and Assagao called Noronha's Corner, which is run by two women. They have a lovely Vindaloo and a beef cutlet, served with puris. For desserts in Goa, I like Cream Choc.
Which is your favourite modern diner or contemporary cafe?
For fine dining in Goa, I like Bomras and Sublime. I also love Indian Accent in Delhi.
What else do you love about the culinary scene in Goa or Kolkata?
The one thing I love about both Goa and Kolkata is the regional ingredients and produce; you just have to know the right places.
