The Food of Old Dhaka, 16 unique flavors that will make you instantly hungry.

An aromatic and mouthwatering heaven

In Old Dhaka, food means a lot more than just eating to stay full. It’s a way to honor history, show what the community is like, and feel linked to the past. The special food traditions of this lively area in Dhaka are still being taught from parents to kids, keeping the old ways of cooking and flavors that made it special alive.

Whether you’re wandering through the busy streets or enjoying a traditional meal, the food of old dhaka’s own Heritage and culture will take you on a delightful journey that satisfies your taste buds and warms your heart, leaving a strong memory of the amazing food experiences this place has.

The narrow pathways and busy roads are filled with small food stands and carts, each offering a delightful variety of tasty snacks and treats. From the mouthwatering smell of biryani drifting in the air to perfectly cooked sizzling kebabs, the street food in Old Dhaka is a burst of delicious flavors and rich textures.

besides delicious food puran dhaka is also famous for it’s colourful and vibrant festival such as “shakraine”. If you are exploring old dhaka you should definitely visit Shakrain Festival.

Biriyani

Biryani holds a special place in Puran Dhaka’s cuisine, considered as a royal dish. The captivating aroma of traditional biryani is so inviting that you’ll be tempted to try it. The combination of tender meat and a mix of aromatic flavors is what makes it stand out.

What sets apart this well-loved food of Puran Dhaka is how it’s cooked. This also distinguishes each biryani eatery and builds its reputation. The famous Kacchi biryani is known for its mouthwatering taste, particularly the meat’s tenderness. Typically, goat meat is used for Kacchi biryani.

Kolkata Kacchi A notable spot,Ghor on Abdul Hasnat Road, Satrawja, offers exceptional Kacchi biryani. Their specialty lies in the use of basmati rice and the tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth.

Haji’r Biriyani on Kazi Allaudin Road, Nazira Bazar, is historically renowned for its culinary expertise. Unlike Kacchi biryani, Haji biryani uses small cubed beef. The meat is combined with pre-steamed rice and slow-cooked to perfection.

Haji Nanna Biriyani at Becharam Dewri is also popular for its delicate dishes. Their Kacchi biryani is bursting with flavors and generous in quantity. Unlike Kolkata Kacchi Ghor, they use pulao rice, blending it with various spices and meat for a delightful taste.

Junu Polao Ghor in Narinda, while not a Kacchi biryani place, is worth mentioning. Their pulao boasts an authentic taste that must be experienced to be understood. And the aroma is so rich that it engulfs you from the first moment.

Other well-known places for Kacchi biryani include Royal Restaurant in Lalbagh, Hotel Al-Rajjak in Bongshal, and Hanif Biryani in Nazira Bazar (known for both beef and Kacchi biryani).

Cafe Corner, Puran dhaka

Cafe Corner stands just across from Beauty Boarding, about 100 meters away. It was established in 1962 by Radharaman Ghosh and Haripada Ghosh. After a while, they moved to Kolkata and passed the cafe to Solaiman Mallick before leaving, as mentioned by former manager Aboney Sengupta. The cafe is still running and has a loyal customer base. Despite its small size, it can seat around 20-25 people and doesn’t have air conditioning.

Cafe Corner is renowned for its mutton crumb chop and prawn cutlet, as well as their special milk tea. The mutton crumb chop is beyond amazing – it’s essentially tiny mutton ribs coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. The spiciness is just right, making it a must-try dish. The prawn cutlet features battered and crumb-fried prawns, and though good, it doesn’t quite match up to the mutton dish’s excellence. The tea is served in classic white cups and saucers, adding a touch of nostalgia to the experience.

Kebab

Among the delightful offerings of Puran Dhaka, Middle Eastern cuisine stands out as one of the finest. This iconic food from Puran Dhaka holds a significant place, reflecting the heritage of Old Dhaka. While numerous kebab joints can be found throughout Puran Dhaka, if you’re looking for the ultimate experience, Bismillah Kabab Ghar on Kazi Alauddin Road, Nazira Bazar, is a must-visit. Their chicken chap, beef boti kebab, and beef chap are exceptionally delicious.

Gandaria is home to Rahmania Kabab, another well-known spot for savoring kebabs that locals love.

In Thatari Bazar, Bot Tolar Kabab enjoys popularity for its variety of kebabs, much appreciated by the community.

Lalbagh is where you’ll find Mira Mian’s chicken fry and beef shik, a local kebab place celebrated for its mouthwatering chicken fry and satisfying beef shik kebabs. Each succulent bite of their beef shik kebab is sure to gratify your taste buds.

Snacks

Bakarkhani, also called bakar khani roti, is a thick and spiced flatbread that originated in present-day Bangladesh during the Mughal era. Starting from Old Dhaka, this bread has given rise to various regional versions across the Indian subcontinent. In Old Dhaka, it’s a popular breakfast treat and the most favored one. Beyond Dhaka, Bakarkhani is typically made during certain Muslim religious festivals and has now gained popularity as a sweet bread throughout the region.

Bakarkhani has a texture somewhat resembling biscuits and a firm outer layer. The main ingredients include flour, semolina, sugar, saffron-soaked molasses, poppy or nigella seeds, salt, and ghee (clarified butter).

But some people will find Bakharkhani a bit too dry for their taste. if its too dry for you than you can try it with Malai-Cha( made with thick cow’s milk) dip the Bakharkhani in Cha and have a bite. trust me it’s gonna taste havenly.

also For an exceptional snacking experience, head to Lakshmi Bazar where you can try the Luchi vaji at Chawrangi restaurant and Mashur Sweetmeat. These places are highly popular among locals and could easily become your favorites as well. The luchi, served with tasty sides like dal and vegetables, is truly impressive.

Additionally, don’t miss out on the unique and well-known special taki mach’er (Taki fish) puri at Hotel Khan on Tipu Sultan Road. This snack is distinct for its bold flavor and is famous for its distinctive taste.

Drinks

In Old Dhaka, you’ll discover some of the most rejuvenating and flavorful beverages. Among the many options, Beauty Lassi on Johnson Road stands out, renowned for its creamy and delectable lassi. This special drink from Puran Dhaka not only quenches your thirst but also leaves you yearning for more. They also offer faluda and lebur sharbat. On a similar note, the Jafran badamer sharbat from Royal restaurant at Lalbagh is both delicious and a local favorite.

For another refreshing choice, you can enjoy a cool glass of lassi at Nurani sharbat in Chakbazar.

Chowk Bazar during Ramadan

During the holy month of Ramadan, Chak Bazar in Dhaka, Bangladesh, becomes a vibrant hub for food enthusiasts and the faithful alike. Chak Bazar is renowned for its bustling food scene, especially during this sacred month. Muslims observe fasting from dawn until sunset during Ramadan, and when the time comes to break their fast, the streets of Chak Bazar come alive with a wide array of delectable dishes.

Iftar Delicacies:

1. Dates and Water: The fast is traditionally broken with the eating of dates and sipping water, following the Sunnah (teachings) of the Prophet Muhammad.

2. Fruit Chaat: Various fruit chaats combining fruits like mangoes, bananas, apples, and more are enjoyed for their refreshing flavors and nutritional benefits.

3. Piaju: Piaju, which are lentil fritters, are a popular and crispy appetizer often served during iftar.

4. Chola Puri: A hearty dish of spicy chickpeas (chola) served with puris (fried bread) is a staple in Chak Bazar’s iftar offerings.

5. Fuchka/Puchka/Pani Puri: These bite-sized crispy shells filled with spicy tamarind water, chickpeas, and potatoes offer a burst of flavors.

6. Pakoras: A variety of deep-fried fritters made from items like potatoes, eggplants, and spinach are served alongside chutneys.

7. Haleem: A rich and hearty stew made from wheat, lentils, and meat, haleem is a nourishing option for those seeking a more substantial meal.

8. Jilapi: Jilapi, a sweet and syrupy spiral-shaped dessert, is a favorite among those with a sweet tooth.

9. Sherbet and Drinks: A variety of refreshing sherbets made from ingredients like rose, lemon, and fruits are available to quench thirst after a day of fasting.

10. Seekh Kabab: These are minced meat skewers seasoned with spices and herbs, then grilled or roasted to perfection. Seekh kababs are flavorful and have a slightly smoky taste.

11. Shami Kabab: Made from ground meat (usually beef or chicken), lentils, and spices, shami kababs are soft and melt-in-the-mouth. They’re often shallow-fried or pan-fried.

12. Chapli Kabab: Originating from Pakistani cuisine, chapli kababs are flattened minced meat patties mixed with spices, herbs, and sometimes chickpea flour. They are shallow-fried until crispy.

12. Boti Kabab: Boti kababs are marinated chunks of meat (usually beef or mutton) that are skewered and grilled or roasted. They’re known for their tender texture and rich flavors.

14. Chicken Tikka: Chicken tikka consists of boneless chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked on skewers.

Dinner (Sehri) Options:

Before the pre-dawn meal of sehri, people often partake in heartier options to sustain them throughout the day of fasting. This meal is usually consumed before the Fajr (dawn) prayer.

1. Khashi leg roast : it involves marinating the leg of the castrated goat with a mixture of spices, herbs, and often yogurt or other marinades to enhance its flavor and tenderness. The marinated leg is then typically slow-cooked, either by roasting in an oven or grilling over an open flame. This slow cooking method allows the meat to become tender and infused with the flavors of the marinade.
2. Khichuri: A comforting dish made from rice, lentils, and often meat, khichuri provides sustenance and warmth for the upcoming fasting day.
3. Paratha: Flaky and fried bread, such as parathas, are enjoyed with sides like eggs, vegetables, or meat.
4. Chai (Tea): Tea is a common accompaniment to the sehri meal, providing a source of warmth and caffeine.

Chawk Bazar during Ramadan offers a unique experience of camaraderie and community, as people from various walks of life come together to break their fast and share meals. The variety of traditional dishes and the vibrant atmosphere make it a special culinary destination during this sacred month.

Desserts

Traditional treats are an essential part of Puran Dhaka’s culinary scene. At places like Doyal Sweets on Abdul Hasnat Road, you can savor wonderful sweet treats that carry a milky richness sure to please your palate. Another option, Mazher Sweets at Siddik Bazar, tempts you with a diverse selection of sweetmeats.

For those longing for the crispy joy of Zilapi, head to Green Sweets at Thatari Bazar, where you can relish its delightful crunchiness.

The Food of old dhaka’s honorable mention:

Nirob Hotel at Nazimuddin Road:
This restaurant, located on Nazimuddin Road, is famous for its special dishes called ‘bhorta,’ which are mashed items bursting with flavors. They offer an impressive selection of 20 bhorta items for both lunch and dinner. If you’re looking to truly experience the diverse tastes of Dhaka, Nirob Hotel is a must-visit.

Haji Nanna’s Morog Pulao:
While not exactly a biriyani, Haji Nanna’s morog pulao is a dish that stands out for its mouthwatering taste. The distinct flavors make it a culinary delight worth mentioning. Don’t miss the chance to savor this flavorful pulao alongside their famous biriyani.

Shamser Ali’r Vhuna Khichuri at Bongshal:
Even though this place isn’t primarily known for biriyanis or pulaos, the taste of their Vhuna Khichuri, found in the Bongshal area, is so heavenly that it’s a must-try. If you’re seeking to treat yourself to the rich and delicious flavors of Dhaka’s popular cuisine, a visit to Shamser Ali’r Vhuna Khichuri is highly recommended.

In essence, these eateries offer unique and flavorful dishes that capture the essence of Dhaka’s culinary scene. Whether it’s the variety of bhorta at Nirob Hotel, the special morog pulao at Haji Nanna’s, or the irresistible Vhuna Khichuri at Shamser Ali’r, each place promises a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Check out other restraurants also famous in OLD DHAKA.

Conclusion:

The food traditions in this lively area of old dhaka are still being shared from one generation to the next, keeping the special tastes and customs that made it unique alive and well. In essence, these eateries offer unique and flavorful dishes that capture the essence of Dhaka’s culinary scene. Whether it’s the variety of bhorta at Nirob Hotel, the special morog pulao at Haji Nanna’s, or the irresistible Vhuna Khichuri at Shamser Ali’r, each place promises a delightful experience for your taste buds. if exploring dhaka and it’s food amazes you, there are other places in Bangladesh is also worthy of your attention. Here is A-Z guideline for exploring and Visiting Bangladesh if you are interested.