Siliguri West Bengal, India Travel Guide
Siliguri's food recounts the story of its crossroads location. It combines Bengali culinary traditions with strong impact from Nepali and Tibetan cuisines.
This blend results in a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes, with rice serving as a staple, accompanying most meals.
Momos, thukpa, and chowmein are widely available and popular due to geographical proximity.
Expect the prevalence of various fish curries (macher jhol) and vegetable preparations (sabzi).
A unique adaptation of Chinese dishes to local spice preferences, distinct from authentic Chinese cuisine.
A timeless Bengali fish curry, typically prepared with rohu or catla fish.
Known for its flavorful gravy, a staple in Bengali cuisine.
Steamed or crispy dumplings with vegetable, chicken, or pork fillings.
Served with a spicy chutney, a popular street food.
A Tibetan noodle soup, often with vegetables and/or meat.
A warm, comforting dish popular during winter.
Typically 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM. Often consists of lighter fare like Puri Sabji, paratha, or toast.
Lunch: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM (rice with dal, sabzi, fish/meat). Dinner: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM (another substantial meal).
Fine dining options are limited compared to larger cities. Upscale hotels like Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri offer such experiences.
Numerous options for Indian (North and South), Bengali, Nepali, Tibetan, and Chinese cuisines.
Bidhan Market and Hong Kong Market feature countless food stalls offering inexpensive and authentic street food.
India is very vegetarian-friendly; many dishes naturally vegetarian. Look for "pure veg" restaurants. Vegan options require inquiry about dairy and ghee usage.
Many wonders of naturely vegetarian meals, "pure veg" restaurants widespread.
Awareness of gluten-free and other allergens is growing but not universal. Clearly communicate dietary needs, using translation apps if necessary.
Stick to simpler, naturally gluten-free dishes like rice, dal, vegetable curries.
Cha (tea), Lassi, Fresh fruit juices, Daab (Tender Coconut Water).
Local brands of beer and spirits available in licensed bars and liquor stores.
Singara (Samosa), Aloo Chop/Beguni.
Rosogolla, Mishti Doi, Sandesh.
Websites like HappyCow can locate vegetarian and vegan options. Online restaurant guides are also valuable.
Local food blogs and restaurant review sites also provide information.
Clearly communicate dietary restrictions.
Stating your needs in Hindi or Bengali can be specifically useful.
Enjoy dining at a tea resort near Siliguri, blending local flavors with the serene ambiance of a tea estate.
Hong Kong Market, beyond its electronics, serves as a good spot for trying local street food. Bidhan Market also offers diverse street food options.
Spongy sweet cheese balls immersed in syrup.
Sweetened yogurt, a Bengali favorite.
Bengali sweet made from fresh cheese (chhana).
Fried bread presented with a flavorful potato curry, a common breakfast or snack item.
Light and satisfying.
A popular flatbread, often stuffed with various fillings like potato (aloo paratha) or cauliflower (gobhi paratha).
Versatile and filling.
Also called the "Champagne of Teas," a delicate and perfumed black tea grown in the Darjeeling hills.
A strong, malty tea, ideal for milk and sugar. Produced in the Dooars region, known for its robust flavor.
Sample fresh tea from numerous local stalls and cafes across Siliguri. A ubiquitous and social beverage.
From spicy street food to traditional thalis, the city has a flavor for every palate. Be adventurous and savor the local specialties.
