From a modern mutli-level lounge with stunning geometric patterns to a Pan-Asian place with interesting art deco walls and handpainted murals, Kolkata has a variety of unusual and spectacular restaurants. Here are five spaces that offer great food, and are a feast for the eyes.
Soba Sassy
The intriguingly named Pan-Asian culinary bar Soba Sassy, is one of the latest addition to Kolkata's dining scene. It brings a fusion of flavours from across Asia to its artisanal cocktails, diverse food menu, and dulcet desserts. The restaurant is housed inside the Harrington Mansion on Ho Chi Minh Sarani Road, spread over 7,000 sq ft, and divided into two sections Soba and Sassy. The primary fine dining space, Soba, has a vibrant plum and emerald decor, and the walls are adorned with faux flowers. The space is furnished with colourful rib-backed chairs and a wonderful selection of terrazzo tiles. Sassy is a bar and lounge with a panda installation, hand-painted wall murals with a modern take on art deco walls, and an eye-catching cherry blossom tree. One of the highlights of Soba Sassy is the Pink Room, which features bright pink mosaic tiles and a rectangular bathtub. Telephone booths add to the charm of the room, and a "Kiss My Sass" neon sign on the wall provides a playful touch.
Address 1st floor. Harrington Mansion, Cta Contemporary Training Academy, 8, Ho Chi Minh Sarani Rd, Kankaria Estates, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
Drunken Teddy
This luxurious multi-level lounge spans over 15,000 square feet and boasts an extravagant indoor space with ceilings as high as 32 feet. The entrance is a tunnel-shaped transitional space that serves as a dramatic gateway to the urban forest-themed walkway. The marble flooring is laid out in a stunning geometric pattern and the bar back display has glass blocks installed with indirect light adding to an ethereal design display. Special items on the menu include Acapulco Tostada, Drunken Chicken and the Olive All&rsquo Asco Lana.
Address Horizon Building, Elgin, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
The Bhawanipur House
A heritage bungalow with high ceilings and an incredible old-world charm has been transformed into an eatery that offers a range of eating out options, from morning tea drinkers to afternoon chatters and evening diners. With a special focus on tea, The Bhawanipur House aims to convert a new generation to the joys of tea. Their aim is to bring back those days of "rawk-er adda" in Kolkata when folks would sip on some cha accompanied by long-drawn conversations with friends on the front step ("rawk") of typical old Kolkata houses.
Address 13/1B, Priyanath Mallick Rd, Bakul Bagan, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026
Milee Droog Coffee and Bistro
Housed in a 110 year old palatial space, this cafe and bistro serves fare from the Slavic regions (think Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Poland, Azerbaijan, and Turkey), apart from some Spanish and Mexican fare and even Indian dishes like Chettinad Chicken. The interiors have multiple open spaces as well as enclosed areas. You'll love the checkboard floors and lime-hued pastels.
Address Ground Floor, 34 Kavi Sabitri Chattopahdyay Road, 34, Lansdowne Terrace, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026
Jalsa
Located within the more than a century old Harrington Mansion, the atmospheric restaurant has high ceilings and arches, and interesting lighting. Deep red walls, black and white striped marble flooring and mood lighting enhances the space. The black and white pattern continues into the main dining hall which is flanked by a private dining hall and a lounge area. Read our review here.
Address Harrington Mansion, 8, Ho Chi Minh Sarani Rd, Kankaria Estates, Central, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
