The renowned Mughlai dining establishment Aminia proudly enters its 95th season, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to providing timelessly authentic cuisine for years. During the First World War, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh was banished from Lucknow to Kolkata and laid the foundation for Aminia’s legacy. The Nawab’s crew of Khansamas and Bawarchis along with him in an effort to preserve Lucknow’s traditional cuisine, eventually gave birth to what is today known as Kolkata Biryani. However, due to a lack of resources, their financial status was unstable. They made the choice to use less meat and potatoes in place of the meat since potatoes can absorb flavor without reducing the umami of the main dish. The deliberate mixing of the elements produced this culinary delight.

In 1929, Aminia made its debut on Zakaria Street. However, it was in 1947 that Aminia opened the largest and oldest outlet in New Market, coinciding with India’s declaration of independence.

As the years rolled by, Aminia’s culinary prowess flourished under the leadership of Mohammed Azhar, the second-generation director and chairman.

Aminia is now run by the third and fourth generations- Asher Ather and Kabir Azhar.

Aminia has thrived on the affection and support of its patrons.

Aminia has outlets across Golpark, Jessore Road, Shyambazar, Rajarhat, Behala, Barrackpore, Serampore, Sodepur, Siliguri, Guwahati, and Kolaghat.

Delicacies like Mutton/ Chicken Special Biryani, Aminia Special Mutton Curry, Mutton/ Chicken Rezala, Chicken Chap, and Shahi Firni are just a few of the restaurant’s pivotal dishes.

Aminia continues to provide more than simply food, extending a bit of Kolkata’s lively culture to everyone who enters its doors while also having a heart that is firmly planted in history and the future.

Priyanka Dutta