In Kolkata, Durga Puja is just as much about eating as it is about pandal hopping, late-night adda, and spending time with loved ones. While the city’s Puja food trail is renowned for its wide diversity, Garden Café is encouraging patrons to try something a little new this holiday season with an all-vegetarian South Indian feast that combines well-known favorites, decadent dosas, and cozy café staples. Garden Café provides a laid-back vegetarian dining experience where the emphasis remains on fresh food, rich flavors, and the simple pleasure of eating together for those seeking a change from the typical Puja fare.

On offer are dishes like Masala Dosa, Podi Dosa, Rava Masala Dosa, Plain Dosa, Cheese Mushroom Garlic Dosa, Benne Plain Dosa, Benne Masala Dosa, Benne Podi Plain Dosa, Benne Podi Masala Dosa, Benne Garlic Roast Dosa, Steamed Idli, Thatte Idli, Finger-Fried Idli, Dahi Idli Fries, Vada served with sambar and chutneys, handmade Kulfi, and South Indian filter coffee.

Garden Café is a simple addition to the celebratory itinerary because Puja brings families and friends together for lengthy meals and impromptu food stops. It’s a spot to meet friends over a plate of dosa and a cup of filter coffee, sit in for a leisurely lunch with family, or stop by after a morning of pandal hopping.

This Puja, Garden Café’s presentation is more about incorporating a different flavor—one that is proudly vegetarian, uniquely South Indian, and firmly based in Kolkata—than it is about adhering to a celebratory culinary tradition.

Priyanka Dutta