Forget fancy Michelin-starred restaurants and pretentious tasting menus. In Delhi’s heart lies a haven for the true gourmand, a place where explosions of flavour happen on every corner and aromas weave a symphony that beckons your taste buds on a vibrant adventure. Welcome to CR Park, also lovingly known as Delhi’s Mini-Bengal – a treasure trove of Bengali street food that will tantalize your senses and leave you craving more.
We’re ditching the forks and spoons for this culinary expedition. Here, your hands are your utensils, and the streets are your dining room. So, tighten your belts and loosen your inhibitions, because CR Park Market 1 & 2 are about to take you on a flavour journey you won’t soon forget.
Unveiling the Gems: Must-Try Street Eats in CR Park
CR Park is a labyrinth of bustling bylanes, each stall a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. But fret not, intrepid foodie! We’ve curated a list of iconic vendors and their signature dishes that will leave you utterly satisfied.
Raju Puchka Wala: The King of Phuchka Paradise
Your CR Park odyssey begins with a bang – a flavour bang, that is. Head straight to Raju Puchka Wala, a legend whose reputation precedes him. Here, the humble phuchka (fried flour balls filled with spiced potato mash) transcends the ordinary. Each bite is a symphony of textures – the crisp shell yielding to the soft, tangy potato filling, a burst of sweet and spicy chutneys adding a playful counterpoint. Raju’s secret lies in his light, airy phuchkas and his generations-old recipe for the chutneys. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself ordering a second (or third) plate!
Kolkata Hot Kathi Roll: A Love Letter Wrapped in Paratha
No trip to CR Park is complete without indulging in the legendary Kolkata Kathi Roll. This iconic creation is a love letter to Bengali flavours, wrapped in a flaky paratha. Choose from a variety of fillings – succulent chicken marinated in aromatic spices, melt-in-your-mouth mutton, or a vegetarian option bursting with fresh vegetables. Each roll is a perfect balance of textures and flavours, the soft paratha cradling the juicy filling, the hint of char from the griddle adding a smoky touch.
Dadu Cutlet Shop
Dadu Cutlet Shop is a testament to the fact that simple things done right can be truly magical. Their speciality – the Beguni (battered and deep-fried eggplant slices) – is a revelation. The eggplants are perfectly cooked, retaining their soft texture within a golden, crispy exterior. Each bite is a delightful interplay of sweet and savoury, leaving you wanting more.
Vikas Bishwas — Jhaal Muri Waala: The Magic of Jhaal Muri
For a quick and fiery snack, head to Vikas Bishwas, the undisputed king of Jhaal Muri. This Bengali street food staple is a symphony of textures and flavours. Puffed rice forms the base, tossed with peanuts, chopped onions, chilies, mustard oil, and a secret spice mix. The result is an addictive explosion of flavours, the perfect pick-me-up for a lazy afternoon.
Ghughnee Wala: A Legacy of Comfort Food
Craving something warm and comforting? Look no further than Ghughnee Wala. Their signature dish, Ghughni, is a slow-cooked yellow pea curry bursting with flavour. The peas are cooked to creamy perfection, bathed in a rich, fragrant gravy that will warm your soul. Pair it with piping hot luchi (deep-fried flatbread) for a truly satisfying experience.
Kolkata Biryani House: Aromatic Voyage to Kolkata
For a taste of Kolkata’s rich culinary heritage, head to Kolkata Biryani House. Their Awadhi-style biryani is a fragrant masterpiece. Layers of long-grained rice are cooked with succulent meat, aromatic spices, and saffron, resulting in a dish that is both visually stunning and incredibly satisfying. Each bite is an explosion of flavour and aroma, a testament to the biryani-making expertise of Kolkata.
A Sweet Interlude: Bengali Rasgulla in CR Park
After your savoury adventures, take a detour into the world of Bengali sweets. CR Park boasts a plethora of sweet shops, each with their own take on classic Bengali desserts. Look for the melt-in-your-mouth rasgullas – spongy balls of cottage cheese curds simmered in a light sugar syrup. Each bite is a burst of sweetness, perfectly balanced by the subtle flavour of cardamom.
Annapurna Sweet House: Sandesh Delights
Established in 1962, Annapurna Sweet House is a CR Park institution. Their glass display cases are a kaleidoscope of colours, showcasing an array of Bengali sweets like Roshogolla (soft cheese balls dipped in sugar syrup), Pantua (deep-fried cottage cheese dumplings soaked in sugar syrup), and Mishti Doi (sweetened yogurt). Each bite is a textural and flavourful delight, guaranteed to leave you wanting more.
Kamala Sweet Shop
Another CR Park stalwart, Kamala Sweet Shop is renowned for its handcrafted Bengali sweets. Their signature Sandesh, made with cottage cheese, sugar, and a variety of flavourings like cardamom, pistachio, and rosewater, is a must-try. The delicate balance of sweetness and flavour is simply divine.
Beyond the Bites: The Heart of CR Park
CR Park’s charm goes beyond its street food. As you explore the bustling lanes, you’ll encounter friendly vendors selling fresh produce, colourful flowers, and traditional Bengali textiles. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. You might even discover a hidden gem or two!
