Calcutta Diaries: China Town - Old and New

Beijing, Arguabl the most famous of the restaurants in ChinaTown

I repeat what I have said before, that, this is an effort to describe the cult places in the city as seen by my own eyes over the last 10 years.At times I have tried to pick up things from history, but, I genuinely believe there are ample books and the internet which can provide more information regarding the history of this city.So,while,the question on how the Chinese arrived in India is something that is best left to history, the write up below explores the present situation of ChinaTown and the livelihood of the people and its famous restaurants and also touches upon the old ChinaTown.

@Old ChinaTown

The hub of Indian Chinese Cuisine in the city, that will give any fancy authentic Chinese restaurant a run for its money. Yes, China Town or Tangra, as it is known, is famous for its Indianised Chinese recipes that taste better than their authentic counterparts. For the first timer - more than the restaurants, more of the rememberance will be of the sand paved roads, shanties, incessant traffic jam, single laned streets, young children loitering across the streets  and a sea of dust enveloping the place.But once you get a taste of that perfect chicken drumstick along with a sip of chilled beer thats easily forgotten.

@ Old ChinaTown

Chinese Cemetery

The streets of ChinaTown are dotted with restaurants on either sides.The first and the best one on the block is Beijing.Hot Wok and Big Boss are a close second and third.There are numerous other restaurants but its a personal recommendation to stick to either of these Big 3.Along with the food, the restaurants also serve drinks by the bottle - which is a rarity in Calcutta. Normally restaurants will sell 30 ml or 60 ml measured pegs but in addition to that you can buy the bottle here. The bottle comes cheap and makes it convenient to share with co-diners.

Gateway to China!

The starters at Beijing are a favourite and go great with drinks.The Dry Chilli Chicken, Chicken Drums ofHeaven are efficiently prepared and tasty. Also the chilli-garlic fried recipes are a must try. The Meifoon - rice noodles - are a must try. Especially the egg-chicken hakka meifoon is delicious.The sitting arrangement is cozy yet roomy and service is prompt. From a convenience perspective Beijing also offers Valet parking considered to be a novelty in the city.

Both Hot Wok and Big Boss offer great food and ambience. Hot Wok has a separate section for smokers. Considering the present restriction on smoking this adds to the convenience factor.The food at both the joints are equally great with the favour just tilting with Big Boss.

Thus completes this week of my sojourn in the city!