Dacres Lane Kolkata Revisited|Kolkata Street Food at Dacres Lane kolkata|জেমস হিকী সরণী| ডেকার্স লেন

Historic Origins: Named after Philip Milner Dacres, a British Collector of Calcutta in the late 18th century, the lane stretches from Waterloo Street (north) to Esplanade Row East (south) .

Urban Legacy: Once host to Moore’s Assembly Rooms—venue for important social gatherings like the farewell banquet of Governor-General Lord Minto—the lane has witnessed more than just meals .

Cultural Evolution: Originally a hangout spot for sailors and colonial workers, today it survives as a vibrant food destination—often dubbed the "Mecca of street food" or Tiffin Gali .

Though officially renamed in 1982, it’s still affectionately known as Dacres Lane by locals and visitors alike .
What Makes It Worth Visiting?

Historic, yet timeless: More than two centuries of history, colonial echoes, and surviving eateries that defy modernization .

Affordable nostalgia: A haven for office workers, students, and food lovers seeking hot, wholesome, inexpensive meals in a compact, communal setting .

Enduring charm: Despite its cramped and gritty surroundings, the lane continues to attract crowds for delicious fares that are rooted in tradition .
What to Eat & Where

Some standout stalls and dishes include:

Chitto Babur Dokan (Chitto Da’s)

Established: Circa 1947 by Shrish Ranjan Roy; still run by descendants .

Signature: Chicken or mutton stew with buttered toast—often called “continental”—along with fish kabiraji, dimer devil, ghugni, and more .


Apanjan & Suruchee

Apanjan: Known for Mughlai rolls, cutlets, fish fry, and other hearty treats .

Suruchee: Part of the Chitto Da’s group; popular for fish fry, mutton/chicken rezala, and Indo-Chinese items like chilli chicken and chicken biryani .


Other Foodtertainment

Khichuri & Telebhaja: Hearty khichuri with fried vegetables, perfect monsoon fare (~₹30) .

Tea, Lassi & Juices: Tea (as low as ₹7–₹10 at Shyam Babur Tea Stall), fruit lassis (~₹25), and mango juice with cashew and cherries near the entrance .

Chinese-style bites: Chowmein, chilly chicken, pulao–chicken kasha combos available from street-side vendors .

Dessert delights: Gajar ka halwa, rabri, jalebi, pantua, and more near Chitto Da’s stall .

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