Food is woven into the very fabric of Kolkata’s identity. For Bengalis, eating is not just sustenance—it’s celebration. From bustling family feasts to vibrant street-side snacking, the City of Joy lives up to its name with every bite.
Kolkata’s streets are a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from sizzling chowmein and chilli chicken to crisp dosas with fragrant sambar, hot momos, meaty cutlets, and rich, aromatic biryani. But few dishes capture the essence of the city quite like the legendary kathi roll.
Now, this local favourite has earned international recognition. The latest global rankings by TasteAtlas—a respected travel and food guide—have placed Kolkata’s kathi roll at No. 6 on their list of the world’s best wraps. The list features 38 wraps from around the globe, led by Greece’s gyros and Korea’s sangchu ssam.
Whether served from a heritage restaurant or a humble roadside stall, the kathi roll remains one of Kolkata’s most iconic and universally loved creations—and now, it’s officially among the best in the world. Here’s a closer look at the story behind this legendary wrap—its origins, evolution, and why it continues to hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of Kolkatans.
A British Quirk, A Bengali Innovation
The kathi roll’s journey began in the 1930s at Nizam’s Restaurant, a well-known establishment in Kolkata’s lively New Market area. The eatery was celebrated for its tender kebabs, cooked over glowing coal flames on hefty iron skewers. Its patrons included British officers and Bengali elites, all of whom enjoyed the rich flavours but often found eating the kebabs with bare hands or alongside oily parathas inconvenient. In a clever culinary workaround, the cooks at Nizam’s decided to wrap the kebabs in a flaky, pan-fried paratha—creating a mess-free, convenient, handheld snack that needed no utensils.
The wrapped kebabs quickly became a favourite. By the 1960s, the roll had become synonymous with Nizam’s. As demand grew, the original heavy iron skewers were replaced with lighter bamboo sticks, known locally as kathi, which gave the roll its name. What began as a practical fix evolved into a cultural icon—portable, accessible, and a symbol of Kolkata’s dynamic street food scene.
What’s In A Name?
The name kathi comes from the Bengali word for stick—a reference to the bamboo skewers that replaced the heavier iron rods traditionally used to cook kebabs. As the method of preparation evolved, the name stuck, giving rise to what is now known as the kathi roll.
While it started with grilled meat, the dish has since embraced a wide variety of fillings, including spiced chicken, egg, paneer, and even vegetarian options—making it one of the most versatile and widely loved snacks across India.
A Street Food Staple
As time passed, the kathi roll grew and adapted, mirroring the vibrant mix of cultures that define Kolkata’s unique character. Though the original featured beef, it wasn’t long before mutton and chicken versions captured the public’s imagination. Vegetarian alternatives like paneer and egg soon followed, alongside creative twists that pushed the boundaries of the classic roll. Variations such as double-egg chicken, egg-and-potato, and even chowmein-filled rolls emerged.
Over the decades, the kathi roll has become much more than a quick bite—it’s an essential part of everyday life in Kolkata. Whether it’s a quick lunch, a post-work snack, or late-night comfort food, the roll is a reliable go-to for locals. Typically served with a dash of sliced onions, a squeeze of lime, fiery green chillies, ketchup, and a hint of green chilli sauce, the kathi roll is both satisfying and packed with bold, balanced flavours. Its portability and customisability only add to its appeal.
That a roll created nearly a century ago to appease colonial sensibilities has not only endured but flourished, speaks to its timeless appeal and culinary brilliance.
Where to Find the Best Kathi Rolls in Kolkata
Almost every Kolkatan has their own personal favourite spot for kathi rolls—one they swear by and return to time and again. While kathi rolls can be found on menus in several restaurants across the city, the truly unforgettable versions are discovered at bustling street stalls and small eateries, where the flavours are punchier and the experience more authentic.
For those eager to savour an authentic kathi roll, Kolkata offers a rich array of options—from legendary eateries to beloved street stalls, each bringing its own unique flavour to this iconic dish.
Nizam’s: The Original Home of the Kathi Roll
No visit to Kolkata is complete without stopping by Nizam’s Restaurant, the very place where the kathi roll was born in the 1930s. Known for its authentic taste and uncompromising quality, Nizam’s remains a must-visit for enthusiasts seeking the original experience.
Address: 23 & 24, Hogg Street, near Axis Bank ATM, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700087
Kusum Rolls: Park Street’s Iconic Favourite
Since 1971, Kusum Rolls on Park Street has been serving a wide variety of kathi rolls, gaining a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. Its extensive menu and consistently delicious offerings make it another iconic stop for roll lovers.
Address: 21, Park Street, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016
Badshah: New Market’s Kathi Roll and Beer Haven
Badshah, a popular bar and restaurant in Kolkata’s New Market area, is famous for its Mughlai cuisine and especially its mutton and chicken kathi rolls. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious roll paired with a cold beer.
Address: New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700087
Campari: A Gariahat Gem
Located in Ballygunge, Campari is known for its diverse selection of rolls, including chicken, egg, mutton, and fish varieties. Their fish tandoori roll, in particular, is a standout, delighting those seeking something a little different.
Address: 155B, Rash Behari Avenue, Dover Terrace, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029
Other Notable Spots
- Zeeshan: Famous for its flavoursome rolls, with a popular outlet near Deshapriya Park.
- Arsalan Restaurant & Caterer: Especially the Park Circus outlet, loved for its quality and consistency.
- Parama Roll Corner: A local favourite in Gariahat, recommended for its excellent rolls that capture the true spirit of Kolkata’s street food.
- UP Bihar Restaurant: One of many places around New Market offering their own beloved versions, each with a unique twist.
Read more: A Step Closer To Understanding Himachal Pradesh’s Rich And Diverse Cuisine
Also read: Manek Chowk: Ahmedabad’s Historic Market Turned Street Food Paradise
