In Kolkata’s crowded, vibrant food scene, where biryani is revered, discussed, dissected, and gorged, this Durga Puja The Biryani Canteen has distinguished itself via subtlety rather than loudness. This restaurant is not particularly noticeable because it is tucked away on the bottom level of Offbeat CCU, a unique creative and cultural campus off E.M. Bypass, Topsia.

The Biryani Canteen opened in late 2022 and has since drawn a wide range of regulars, including families, working professionals, students, chefs, and even the odd inquisitive visitor. These patrons are drawn to the restaurant’s unique dhaba-inspired quirk, midnight hospitality, and—above all—its dedication to flavor that is comforting but never sloppy. Conversations take up more room there than meals do, and the only sound louder than the truck-art murals on the walls is the scent of ghee and saffron coming from the handi.

The restaurant is offering “Layers of Legacy” this Durga Puja, a significant addition to its current menu and a strengthening of its culinary dedication. Drawing from the traditional kitchens of Awadh, Puran Dhaka, Punjab, and Rajasthan, it is a deliberate, unreserved reclaiming of food that was once slow, sacred, and simmered in history. Every dish was revered, touched by smoke, and allowed to take its time. This is intentional expansion—not a rewrite of the text, but the addition of chapters.

A group of chefs who consider themselves archivists rather than inventors is at the center of it all.

On offer are dishes like Murgh Mughlai Shorba, Malai Broccoli, Murgh Adana Kebab, Special Kolkata Mutton Biryani, Murgh Kacchi Biryani, Murgh Rara Punjabi, Mutton Laal Maas, and Zafrani Firni.  

What: ‘Layers of Legacy’ @ The Biryani Canteen

Where: Offbeat CCU, Ground Floor, 36/F Topsia Road, EM Bypass, Kolkata 39

When: 11 AM – 2 AM | Dine-In, Takeaway, Delivery

Cost for 2: Rs 1200 + taxes

Priyanka Dutta