Must-Try Foods In Cooch Behar (West Bengal) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India

The cuisine of Cooch Behar, like many areas of West Bengal, is influenced by both Bengali and Koch Rajbongshi culture. This region was a princely state before it merged with the Indian Union and thus enjoys a rich tradition of royal feasts and a variety of unique dishes. The everyday cuisine is predominantly Bengali, with rice and fish playing pivotal roles. However, the influence of the neighboring states and the historical Koch Rajbongshi community can also be seen, which adds a distinct flavor profile to the food of Cooch Behar, including the use of fresh vegetables, pulses, and non-cow non-veg ingredients like goat meat, chicken, and fish.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Cooch Behar

1. Bhapa Ilish (Non-Veg): This is a classic Bengali dish made with Hilsa fish that's steamed with mustard paste, curd, and spices.
2. Alu Posto (Veg): A popular vegetarian dish comprising potatoes cooked in a poppy seed paste.
3. Shukto (Veg): A traditional Bengali mixed vegetable dish with a bitter taste, usually begun as the first item during lunch.
4. Mochar Ghonto (Veg): A flavorful banana flower curry with the addition of potatoes and spices.
5. Kochuri & Aloor Dum (Veg): Fluffy, deep-fried bread called Kochuri served with a delicious spicy potato curry known as Aloor Dum.
6. Rasmalai (Veg): This is a sweet delicacy made from Indian cottage cheese soaked in saffron-flavored milk syrup.
7. Mishti Doi (Veg): A fermented sweet yogurt that is a very popular dessert in the region.
8. Pithe Puli (Veg): Traditional Bengali sweets made especially during the harvest festival of Poush Parbon. These are dumplings filled with sweet coconut or lentil fillings.
9. Sandesh (Veg): A classic Bengali sweet made from paneer or chenna and sugar.
10. Chicken Kasha (Non-Veg): A rich and spicy chicken curry that is commonly enjoyed with rice or roti.

Top Famous Restaurants in Cooch Behar

• Barjala Family Restaurant & Dhaba
  Address: B.S. Road, Near New Cooch Behar Station, Cooch Behar
  Famous Food: Fish Thali (Non-Veg)
• New Annapurna Hotel
  Address: NBSTC Bus Depot, Cooch Behar
  Famous Food: Thukpa (Veg/Non-Veg options available)
• Heaven Restaurant
  Address: Sunity Road, Cooch Behar
  Famous Food: Butter Naan with Paneer Butter Masala (Veg)
• Ambikananda Loknath Hotel and Sweet
  Address: Jail Khana More, Cooch Behar
  Famous Food: Luchi and Chholar Daal (Veg)
• Central Park Restaurant & Bar
  Address: Club Road, Near Central Park, Cooch Behar
  Famous Food: Mutton Biryani (Non-Veg)