In the bustling heart of Delhi, where Mughal grandeur meets contemporary chaos, lies a hidden gem – the soul-satisfying world of Bengali fish curries. Forget the ubiquitous butter chicken; for those seeking an epicurean adventure, a fragrant, flavourful Bengali fish curry beckons.
This is not your average curry. This is an ode to the bounty of the Bay of Bengal, a symphony of spices that awakens the taste buds and transports you to the narrow lanes of Kolkata. But where, amidst Delhi’s labyrinthine streets, does one find this ambrosial dish? fret not, intrepid foodie, for we embark on a quest to unveil the best Bengali fish curries in Delhi.
Maa Tara: A Legacy of Flavour
Our pilgrimage begins at Maa Tara, a legendary restaurant in Chittaranjan Park. Established in 1947, Maa Tara is a living testament to the enduring love affair between Delhi and Bengali cuisine. The interiors are steeped in nostalgia – worn wooden tables, faded photographs of Bollywood stars, and the warm aroma of Bengali spices that instantly sets your mouth watering.
Here, the star of the show is the Ilish Machher Patudi (Hilsa fish in banana leaf wrapping). The hilsa, a prized catch from the Bay of Bengal, is marinated in a secret spice blend, then steamed to perfection within a banana leaf cocoon. Unwrapping this fragrant parcel unveils a moist, flaky fish, infused with the subtle sweetness of the banana leaf and the warmth of the spices. Each mouthful is a revelation, a testament to the delicate balance of flavours achieved by generations of culinary masters.
Oh! Calcutta: A Modern Take on Tradition
This contemporary restaurant offers a vibrant take on Bengali classics. The décor is modern and stylish, with pops of ochre and crimson reflecting the vibrancy of Bengali culture.
For the adventurous palate, the Doi Shorshe Ilish (Hilsa in a yogurt-mustard gravy) is a must-try. The creamy yogurt gravy, tempered with mustard seeds and fragrant panch phoron (five spice blend), creates a delightful tang that perfectly complements the richness of the hilsa. Each spoonful is a burst of flavour and texture, a delightful interplay between the creamy yogurt, the sharp mustard, and the melt-in-your-mouth fish.
Bangla Canvas Restaurant
This contemporary space offers a vibrant canvas for the culinary artistry of Bengal. Walls adorned with traditional Bengali paintings set the stage for a truly immersive experience.
For the seafood enthusiast, the Kosha Mangsho Machher Malaikari (Mutton and fish in a rich cashew gravy) is a masterpiece. Succulent pieces of fish and melt-in-your-mouth mutton are simmered together in a luxuriously creamy cashew gravy, bursting with the warmth of fragrant spices. The dish is a delightful interplay of textures and flavours, a true celebration of Bengali culinary art.
Bijoli Grill: A Culinary Crossroads
For those seeking a taste of Bengali flavours with a twist, Bijoli Grill in Chittaranjan Park offers a unique experience. This restaurant seamlessly blends Bengali culinary traditions with North Indian influences, resulting in a fusion that is both innovative and delicious.
The Doi Ilish Biryani is a testament to this fusion. Layers of fragrant basmati rice are interspersed with succulent pieces of hilsa fish, marinated in yogurt and spices. The dish is then sealed and cooked to perfection, resulting in a biryani that is both comforting and delicately flavoured. The creamy yogurt and the richness of the hilsa create a textural contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
Kolkata Biryani House: A Celebration of Legacy
Our exploration concludes at the Kolkata Biryani House in Bijoli Grill. This bustling eatery offers a slice of Kolkata right in the heart of Delhi. The menu boasts an array of Bengali specialties, but the undisputed star is the Machher Malai Curry (Fish in creamy gravy).
Chunks of white fish are simmered in a rich coconut milk gravy, flavoured with fragrant spices like cardamom and cloves. The addition of poppy seeds lends a subtle nuttiness to the gravy, while a hint of sweetness from chopped dates adds another layer of complexity. This dish is pure indulgence, a creamy and comforting haven for your taste buds.
