A journey through the culinary scene of the city

On the banks of the mighty Padma River lies Rajshahi, where a lazy charm wraps around the city. No one seems too busy to sip tea slowly and share gossip. Flavours feel richer here, and every street corner tells a story. Known as the unofficial capital of North Bengal, Rajshahi integrates history, academia, and culinary traditions that keep drawing travellers back.

The city was once called Barendrabhumi in ancient times. The land holds deep historical roots. Its legacy lives on through iconic educational institutions like Rajshahi College and Rajshahi University, which have played significant roles not only in shaping higher education in Bangladesh but also in influencing the nation's political history.

But beyond heritage, Rajshahi has earned a special place in the hearts of food lovers. Here, culinary experiences are as much a part of the journey as visiting historic landmarks.

Iconic Kala Bhuna experience

In recent years, Kala Bhuna has gained a special place in the menu of Rajshahi food diary, a rich, dark, and aromatic beef curry that has become legendary in food circles. During my three visits to Rajshahi, one ritual has remained constant: heading straight to Nohata and City Hut, two bustling spots where the aroma of sizzling beef greets you long before you reach the door.

People from surrounding villages come to the town to buy essential goods on the weekly market days, so these eateries become packed. There are many popular eateries where one name stands out, 'Hanif Mama.'

Hanif Mama is a brand long before social media turned him into a viral man. Mama has been serving his signature Kala Bhuna for years. He has a simple setup with big utensils where beef and rice are cooked from early morning and served warm and fresh.

It costs 200-250 taka per person to have a good meal.

Student life and midnight meals at Katakhali

For university students, Katakhali is the ultimate escape from dormitory food. Here, two names dominate the scene, Ekota and Ibrahim Hotel. They are popular for their quality Kala Bhuna. Kala Bhuna ranges between 100-150 Taka, with an option of roti or rice.

One cannot confine Katakhali to food; it's bigger than that. You can feel a different atmosphere here. Students gather over plates of beef curry as evening falls. The air is filled with their laughter, debates, and late-night stories that feel quintessentially Rajshahi.

Talaimari

If you think Kala Bhuna is the only star of Rajshahi, then let me tell you the city has another gem hidden in the alleys of the town, which is Beef bot.

The delicacy of the dish comes from its slow-cooking process. Evenings here are lively with locals.

What makes Talaimari special is not just the food, but the place that provides safety and vibrancy. Even late at night, the streets feel welcoming, with men and women strolling under glowing streetlights, savouring the freedom of a city that loves to stay awake.

Street food adventures at CNB

Rajshahi's culinary magic doesn't end with heavy meals; its street food is a category of its own. CNB, one of the city's busiest food hubs, is where you'll find the famous 30 Taka shik burger, proof that great taste doesn't need a high price tag. Nearby, Rana Mishti Ghor tempts food lovers with an unusual treat, crispy puris dipped in roshogolla syrup. Sweet, savoury, and just 30 Taka. It's the kind of quirky combination that street food dreams are made of.

The legacy of Biren Restaurant
When it comes to snacks, no name carries more love and nostalgia than Biren Restaurant at Alokar Mor. Operating since 1975, this small establishment has turned the humble singara into an art form. Sold at only 8 Taka per piece, these crisp pastries are filled with spiced potatoes, and if you're lucky, a piece of mutton liver, a unique but delightful surprise.

Mutton chops are found at 70 Taka, and chicken chops cost 30 Taka.

Tapan Sarkar, the second-generation owner of the shop, proudly carries forward his father Biren's legacy. He hopes future generations will continue to keep the tradition alive. Locals and visitors enjoy the chops, but most importantly, their hospitality as well. Hospitality defines this iconic shop.

Sweetmeats of the city

Rajshahi can offer you the most delicious sweets. The city is celebrated for its sweetmeats, widely regarded as some of the finest in Bangladesh.

The secret lies in the high-quality milk of North Bengal, which is renowned for its richness and creaminess.

There are numerous sweetshops in the city, among them, Rajshahi Mistanna Bhandar stands out with a legacy of over 138 years.
Along with Beliful, it offers an irresistible range of desserts such as roshmalai, malai chop, kalo jaam, and chana sweets, each made with time-honoured and perfect techniques. These sweets are part of Rajshahi's traditional identity.

Rustic and authentic Kalai Ruti

No culinary journey through Rajshahi would be complete without Kalai Ruti. It is a traditional flatbread made from black gram flour. It was once known as a homemade dish. However, Kalai Ruti has become a popular street food. It tastes slightly nutty with a rustic texture, and pairs beautifully with spicy curries. Kalai Ruti represents the essence of rural Bengal.

More than a foodie's paradise

Beyond culinary, Rajshahi is a city of history and charm. University of Rajshahi and Rajshahi College are not just educational landmarks; they have witnessed the country's political and cultural evolutions as well. The city of Padma seems slower than Dhaka. One can call beauty in calmness. Yet it is full of life, where travellers can explore historical sites by day and dive into a world of culinary wonders at night.

Rajshahi deserves your next tripss

Many of us visit the haors of Sylhet or the hills of Chattogram. Still, we don't know how many times a year, as they are regarded as the 'tourist destination.' However, Rajshahi is not just a destination; it's an experience. From Hanif Mama's iconic Kala Bhuna to Biren Restaurant's timeless hospitality, the sweetmeats and Kalai Ruti, it is a city that feeds both body and soul. Whether you come to explore its rich past, wander through ailes tasting food hubs, or sip tea under the hot sky, Rajshahi promises one thing: you will leave with stories to tell, flavours to remember, and a longing to return.

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