Dada Boudi Biryani: Kolkata’s Iconic Culinary Delight Nestled in the bustling streets of Barrackpore, Kolkata, Dada Boudi Restaurant stands as a beacon for biryani enthusiasts, both local and from afar. For over six decades, this legendary eatery has been serving up plates of aromatic, flavorful biryani that have earned a permanent spot in the hearts of food lovers across the city.
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition
Dada Boudi Restaurant’s journey began in 1961, when Ramprasad Saha, a former British police officer from Bihar, opened a modest eatery near Barrackpore railway station. Originally named Janata Hindu Hotel, the establishment catered to railway laborers and local workers, offering simple, wholesome meals at affordable prices. The restaurant’s humble origins belied the culinary empire it would become.
The turning point came in the 1980s, when Ramprasad’s grandsons, Sanjib and Rajib Saha, introduced biryani to the menu. At a time when biryani was not widely available in the area, their chicken biryani—priced at just Rs 11 per plate—quickly became a sensation, drawing crowds from across Kolkata. Today, Dada Boudi Restaurant is synonymous with quality and authenticity, maintaining the same beloved recipe for decades.
The Signature Dada Boudi Biryani Experience
What sets Dada Boudi Biryani apart is its unwavering commitment to taste and quality. Each plate is a generous serving of fragrant basmati rice, tender pieces of meat (chicken or mutton), and the signature aalu (potato), a hallmark of Kolkata-style biryani. The biryani is prepared daily in large handis (pots), ensuring that every serving is fresh and flavorful.
The recipe is a closely guarded secret, but key elements include a blend of aromatic spices like shahi jeera, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and black pepper, along with the use of buffalo milk, khoya, and a touch of rose water for that unmistakable depth of flavor. The preparation involves slow-cooking the rice and meat together, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
Menu Highlights and Prices
While biryani remains the star attraction, Dada Boudi Restaurant offers a diverse menu to cater to all tastes:
- Mutton Biryani: Rs. 330–550 (depending on portion and speciality)
- Chicken Biryani: Rs. 240–380
- Alu Biryani: Rs. 130
Tandoori Starters: Paneer Tikka, Tandoori Chicken, Fish Tikka, and more
The restaurant also offers a range of Indian and Chinese dishes, making it a versatile destination for families and groups.
Why Dada Boudi Biryani is a Must-Try
Dada Boudi Biryani is not just a dish—it’s an experience. The restaurant’s dedication to maintaining its original taste, generous portions, and affordable prices have earned it a loyal following, including celebrities like Sourav Ganguly. With multiple outlets in Barrackpore and Sodepur, Dada Boudi continues to expand, but its heart remains in the simple joy of serving authentic, delicious biryani.
For anyone visiting Kolkata, a trip to Dada Boudi Restaurant is a journey into the city’s rich culinary heritage, where every bite tells a story of tradition, passion, and flavor. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Dada Boudi Biryani is a must-try for anyone seeking the true taste of Kolkata.