Food In Kurseong

Food History of Kurseong, West Bengal, India

Kurseong, a serene hill station in West Bengal, is not only known for its picturesque landscapes and tea gardens but also its rich culinary culture. The food history of Kurseong is greatly influenced by the diverse ethnic communities that reside here, including the Gorkhas, Lepchas, Bhutias, and Bengalis. The convergence of these various cultures has given rise to a unique gastronomic map that includes a variety of flavors and dishes. Kurseong's food is characteristically flavored with local spices and ingredients, with a notable use of fermented products and rice as staples. Being in close proximity to Darjeeling, Kurseong also shares many cultural and culinary similarities with its neighbor.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Kurseong

1. Momos (Veg/Non-Veg) - These are Himalayan dumplings stuffed with vegetables, and while non-veg variants exist, the veg options are equally popular among locals and visitors. The steamed momos served with spicy tomato chutney are a must-try.
2. Thukpa (Veg/Non-Veg) - A soothing noodle soup with mixed vegetables, the vegetarian version of Thukpa is a warm comfort food especially appreciated during the cool climate of Kurseong.
3. Aloo Dum (Veg) - A spicy and tangy dish made with potatoes, this is a staple in local household meals and is commonly found in eateries as well.
4. Sel Roti (Veg) - A traditional homemade, ring-shaped rice bread/doughnut, Sel Roti is often enjoyed with tea and is a festive snack during local celebrations.
5. Gundruk (Veg) - Prepared from fermented green leafy vegetables, Gundruk is a sour dish served as a side dish and is known for its health benefits.
6. Vegetable Churpee (Veg) - A dish made out of local cheese and vegetables, offering a subtle yet distinct flavor unique to the region.
7. Sael Roti (Veg) - Made from fermented rice batter, this deep-fried delicacy is a form of bread that is commonly enjoyed during breakfast.
8. Niguru with Churpi (Veg) - A traditional dish, Niguru is made with fiddlehead ferns and Churpee, the local cheese gives it a distinctive taste.
9. Samay Baji (Veg) - An indigenous Newar platter, it typically includes beaten rice, along with assortments of other vegetarian items like pickles and boiled vegetables.
10. Kalimpong Cheese (Veg) - Though not a dish per se, the famous Kalimpong cheese is a dairy product tourists take back as a souvenir and is used in making various local vegetarian dishes.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kurseong

Below are some of the top restaurants in Kurseong where visitors can try out the local cuisine:

• Café Refuel
  Address: Hill Cart Road, Kurseong
  Famous for its wide variety of teas and vegetarian-friendly cuisine. The café offers a cozy ambiance to enjoy the hills' serenity with a hot cuppa.
• Coaster's Coffee
  Address: 27, Hill Cart Road, Kurseong
  Renowned for its warm beverages and light snacks. It provides a cozy nook for vegetarian and vegan visitors alike.
• Margaret's Deck Tea Lounge by Goodricke
  Address: NH 55, Kurseong
  A tea lounge offering gourmet meals and a variety of teas. The location is famed for its serene views and vegetarian-friendly options.
• Kurseong Tourist Lodge
  Address: Kurseong
  This tourist lodge has a restaurant that serves delectable, locally inspired vegetarian dishes, along with a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.
• Sonama Arghya
  Address: Dowhill Rd, Kurseong
  Known for its traditional cuisine, it provides an authentic experience of vegetarian delights and regional cuisine.

Before visiting any restaurant, it is recommended that tourists check the most current opening times and whether advance booking is required, as hours and services can fluctuate, especially due to seasonal changes or events.