Traditional delicacies, straight out of grandmothers' kitchens, were served today at specialty restaurants in the city on the occasion of Naba Barsho (Bengali New Year) as many Kolkatans gave staple home food a miss to dig into nostalgia with the entire family.
At 6 Ballygunge Place, the menu included veg items that have almost disappeared from the platter in Bengali households - 'Lal Shaag Bhaja', 'Aam Ada Diye Moong Dal', Kumro Phul Bhaja'.
"The main course, too, consisted of a blend of East and West Bengal cuisines. 'Dhakai Pora Mangsho' 'Chittagong Kasha Mangsho', 'Navaratan Paturi', 'Pur bhara Doi Potol' and 'Bhuna Chingri' were the highlights of our menu today," Sushanta Sengupta, a chef and owner of the fine dining restaurant chain, said.
For those with a sweet tooth, there will be an array of desserts, including 'Misti doi' and 'Sandesh', he added.
At Saptapadi, named after Bengali matinee idol Uttam Kumar's blockbuster film, the special 'Baishaki Thali' came with an unconventional twist.
The restaurant rolled out fusion dishes such as like 'Bhetki Chingri popcorn' and 'Tulsi Murgi Nuggets', apart from usual favourites like 'Morich Bhuna Mutton' and 'Methi Lonka Chicken'.
"Bengalis savour continental and Chinese food throughout the year, but on 'Poila Baisakh' (first day of Bengali New Year) people usually take a walk down the nostalgia lane. Our menu is a blend of traditional and contemporary items."
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