While the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre itself, which is a planetarium located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, does not have a food history, the area surrounding it is steeped in the rich culinary traditions of Dhaka. Dhaka is known for its diverse range of Bengali cuisines, which have been shaped by Mughal influences and feature an array of spices, herbs, rice, and lentil dishes. Traditional food in the region often includes an assortment of fish and vegetable dishes, reflecting the abundant waterways and agricultural produce of Bangladesh.
1. Bhorta (Mashed Vegetable or Fish) - Various vegetables or fish are boiled, mashed, and seasoned with mustard oil, onions, and chili. (Mostly veg, can be non-veg)
2. Hilsa Fish Curry - A fragrant curry made with hilsa fish, a popular fish in Bangladesh, typically cooked with mustard oil and spices. (Non-veg)
3. Pitha - A traditional Bengali cake, usually made from rice flour, and can come in both sweet and savory variations. (Veg)
4. Fuchka - A popular street snack consisting of hollow, crispy puris filled with tamarind water, chickpeas, and potato. (Veg)
5. Chotpoti - A spicy and tangy snack made with peas, potatoes, chopped boiled eggs, and a variety of spices, tamarind pulp, and cucumber. (Veg, can be non-veg with addition of eggs)
6. Bhuna Khichuri - A savory rice and lentil dish that's usually served with a side of vegetables or meat. (Can be veg or non-veg)
7. Naan Roti with Dal - Naan bread is often paired with dal, a lentil soup that can be found in various preparations. (Veg)
8. Dhakai Biryani - A flavorful rice dish with chicken or mutton, potatoes, and boiled eggs. The Dhaka version is often lighter in spices than its Indian counterpart. (Non-veg)
9. Misti Doi - Sweetened yogurt that's been fermented and is a popular dessert in Bengali cuisine. (Veg)
10. Alu Puri - Deep-fried bread served with a side of spicy potato curry. (Veg)
1. Bhoj Restaurant
Address: 27, Topkhana Rd, Dhaka
Famous Food: Traditional Bangladeshi platter, which features an assortment of items like bhorta, dal, and fish curry. (Veg and non-veg options)
2. Star Kabab & Restaurant
Address: 54 New Elephant Road, Dhaka
Famous Food: Their kababs and biryanis are quite famous, with the chicken biryani being a highlight. (Non-veg)
3. Nirob Hotel Restaurant
Address: 28/1/C Toyenbee Circular Road, Dhaka
Famous Food: Various bhortas and the hilsa fish curry. (Veg and non-veg options)
4. Beauty Lacchi at Beauty Boarding
Address: 31 Johnson Road, Dhaka
Famous Food: Lacchi (lassi), a creamy and refreshing yogurt-based drink. (Veg)
5. Haji Biryani
Address: 70 Kazi Alauddin Road, Dhaka
Famous Food: Their signature dish, the Haji Biryani, made with mutton. (Non-veg)
6. Al-Razzaque
Address: No. 28, Fulbaria, Dhaka
Famous Food: Pure traditional Bengali thali with various curries, bhorta, and dal. (Veg and non-veg options)
7. Café Bazar at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka
Address: 107 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka
Famous Food: Buffet spreads with an international and local Bengali mix. (Veg and non-veg options)
8. Kostori
Address: House 15/4, Road No. 4, Dhanmondi, Dhaka
Famous Food: Experimental Bengali cuisine, such as the fusion pithas. (Veg options)
9. Mughal's Dine Restaurant
Address: 12 Purana Paltan, Dhaka
Famous Food: Moghlai parathas and keema dishes. (Non-veg)
10. The Dhanshiri Restaurant
Address: 4 Rifle Square, Road 2, Dhanmondi, Dhaka
Famous Food: Traditional curries and freshwater fish dishes. (Veg and non-veg options)