7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler’s Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites

7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - The Indian Coffee House Kolkata Serves Tea Since 1876

The Indian Coffee House in Kolkata, initially established as Albert Hall in 1876, has a long and storied history, serving both coffee and tea for well over a century. This enduring establishment, transformed into a coffee house in the early 1940s by the Coffee Board and officially renamed in 1947, has become a beloved Kolkata landmark. Its location within the scholarly College Street neighborhood is a testament to the area's intellectual heritage. The architectural style, with its high ceilings and ample sunlight streaming through large windows, is characteristic of the era and has remained largely unchanged over the years. This venerable institution isn't just a place for refreshments; its history is intertwined with Kolkata's cultural scene, having been a gathering point for writers, poets, and artists for generations. This cultural legacy, along with its remarkable preservation of the past, has secured the Coffee House's position as a symbol of the city's cafe culture and a vital component of its heritage. While tourist visits are increasingly common, the coffee house remains a valued local spot, maintaining its connection to Kolkata's history and everyday life.

The Indian Coffee House in Kolkata, despite its name, has a rather curious history. Initially founded in 1876 as Albert Hall, a part of a network set up by Indian coffee growers, this location has always had a prominent role in the city's cultural tapestry. It wasn't until 1942 that the focus shifted towards tea, a choice intriguing given the popularity of coffee among the ruling class at the time. Perhaps it was a move born out of economic pragmatism, or an attempt to cater to evolving local tastes.

Interestingly, this place has consistently served as a melting pot for diverse minds and perspectives. It has attracted writers, intellectuals and political figures. The building itself, with its high ceilings and vast windows, showcases a classic colonial design, a remnant of an era that has shaped Kolkata's cityscape. You can observe the impact of this architectural legacy in numerous other public spaces in the city today.

While the establishment sells tea, the agricultural background of West Bengal also influences its beverage offerings, often with locally-sourced ingredients. This underscores the local flavour and tradition in a city where culinary experiences often intersect with the surrounding environment and history. A curious fact is that the prices have stayed remarkably low throughout the years, a stark contrast to the escalating costs of most contemporary urban cafes and restaurants. This affordability reflects the strong tradition of accessible dining.

They use a deliberate method to prepare the tea: slow steeping that enhances flavor. It's an approach that aligns with the science of diffusion and osmosis, optimizing the tea's flavour. The presence of traditional "chai wallahs" serving tea further deepens the place's connection to the past, offering a peek into the development of tea stalls in India. Although renovations have taken place throughout the years, the coffee house retains its inherent character. It is a fine example of how structures can adapt to changing times while maintaining their historical authenticity. Perhaps this constant renewal is the key behind the institution's continued popularity, catering to modern expectations while embracing its traditional roots.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - The Indian Coffee House Kolkata Serves Tea Since 1876
2. 7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Royal Tea House Mumbai Where Bollywood Stars Meet for Cutting Chai
3. 7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Tea Centre Churchgate A Colonial Institution With House Blend Since 1954
4. 7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Chaayos Jaipur The Pink City Original Tea House From 1920
5. 7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Flurys Tea Room in Park Street Kolkata Still Using Original 1927 Recipe
6. 7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - The Century Old Favorite Tea Centre in Fort Mumbai
7. 7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Bomti's Drawing Room Tea Service in North Kolkata Since 1890

7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Royal Tea House Mumbai Where Bollywood Stars Meet for Cutting Chai

Nestled within Mumbai's vibrant culinary landscape, the Royal Tea House has become a favored haunt for Bollywood celebrities, attracted by the city's iconic "cutting chai." This smaller, more affordable serving of tea, unique to Mumbai, represents a delightful blend of tradition and accessibility. Mumbai's tea culture isn't limited to this one spot; it's a thriving ecosystem of cafes and traditional tea stalls. Places like Koolar & Co. and Chai Pe Charcha exemplify this diverse scene, offering everything from Irani chai to masala cutting chai in settings that range from cozy to boisterous. The city's love for chai is evident in the numerous tapris, bustling with locals in the evenings, particularly those known for their spiced brews like adrak wali chai. The juxtaposition of these humble settings with the luxurious high tea experiences at establishments like the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel underscores the wide range of options available in Mumbai. The city's tea culture reflects its rich history and the interaction of traditions, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking authentic culinary explorations. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a roadside stall or the elegance of a high-end hotel, Mumbai offers a tea experience tailored to your preferences.

The Royal Tea House in Mumbai, established in the 1960s, is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional tea houses in a city constantly evolving. Its longevity underscores its deep-seated role in the social fabric of Mumbai, where it has become a favored haunt for locals and, surprisingly, Bollywood celebrities. It's fascinating how the tea house's atmosphere has resonated with filmmakers, serving as a backdrop for numerous film shoots, blurring the lines between popular culture and everyday life in the city.

The Royal Tea House's tea is a carefully crafted blend of Assam tea with local spices like ginger and cardamom. This fusion of traditional techniques with regional ingredients creates a unique taste profile, appealing to both established preferences and contemporary tastes. Some have even suggested that the tea's combination of caffeine and L-theanine may contribute to improved focus and creativity, making it a popular choice among artists and professionals who frequent the establishment.

One of the distinguishing features of the Royal Tea House is its "cutting chai" service. Tea is served in smaller glasses, promoting a culture of sharing and social interaction. This custom, ingrained in Mumbai's social landscape, transforms the act of drinking chai into a communal ritual. The tea itself is brewed with a unique method, involving a longer boiling time for the milk and tea, creating a thicker, richer brew catering to local taste preferences.

Interestingly, the Royal Tea House maintains surprisingly affordable prices despite being a hub for influential individuals. This commitment to accessibility fosters a diverse patronage, creating a unique social mix within the tea house. The architecture of the space hints at Mumbai's colonial past, with high ceilings and an open design echoing the buildings of that era. Yet, despite its old-world charm, the Royal Tea House has integrated modern ordering methods, such as tablet-based systems, reflecting a conscious balance between tradition and modernity.

This unique blend of old and new has attracted numerous Bollywood stars, who visit not just for the chai but also for the social atmosphere. The tea house cultivates a sense of community where celebrities and regular customers mingle, creating a convivial atmosphere. While this mixing of social strata has made the tea house even more renowned, some argue it might have altered the original, more authentic experience of a traditional Mumbai tea house. This raises an interesting point about how establishments with strong local roots can adapt to changing social dynamics while retaining their core identity.

7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Tea Centre Churchgate A Colonial Institution With House Blend Since 1954

The Tea Centre in Churchgate, a part of South Mumbai, has been a fixture since 1954, a testament to the colonial era's impact on the city's tea culture. Operated under the auspices of the Tea Board of India, the cafe retains a distinct vintage ambiance. Staff members often sport uniforms reminiscent of the Raj era, adding to its historical charm. Its appeal stems from its extensive tea selection, ranging from traditional brews to unique creations like Butter Apple Tea and Kulhad Chai. The offerings extend beyond tea, featuring a menu of vegetarian dishes, with a typical meal for two costing around 300 INR, making it a wallet-friendly option. It's a popular spot for various meal times, from breakfast to dinner, highlighting its versatility as a dining destination in the heart of Mumbai. Its location on Veer Nariman Road has been a popular spot for tea lovers and has generally received praise for its service and quality.

However, in recent times, it appears the establishment has encountered difficulties, currently standing closed. While reports of its closure circulate, the management has not offered any explanation for this hiatus, leaving many to wonder about the cafe's fate. Despite the uncertainty, the Tea Centre represents a significant part of Mumbai's tea culture and its history. It remains to be seen whether it will reopen and regain its position as a favorite for Mumbai locals and visitors alike. Whether it's seeking out historic cafes or simply enjoying a cup of chai, the Tea Centre stands as a reminder of India's deep and enduring relationship with this globally beloved drink.

The Tea Centre in Churchgate, Mumbai, established in 1954, embodies a colonial-era institution, with its house blend of tea serving as a constant since its opening. This blend, a carefully crafted combination of various tea leaves, showcases a dedication to quality control that spans decades, highlighting the interplay of art and science in flavor development.

The preparation methods used at the Tea Centre reflect a deep understanding of the optimal conditions for extracting flavors. They meticulously control temperature and steeping times, showcasing the application of thermodynamic and fluid dynamic principles in their tea brewing process.

Sitting at the intersection of colonial and modern Indian culture, the Tea Centre serves as a bridge for diverse communities. Tourists and locals alike are drawn to this unique establishment, a reflection of Mumbai's diverse social fabric and the interplay of different cultural influences throughout its history.

This venue continues to leverage the traditional model of the chai wallah, where experienced tea brewers bring their own finesse to the art of making a good cup of tea. This approach highlights the role of local skills in the broader landscape of India's tea culture.

Despite its long history and prominent location in a bustling city like Mumbai, the Tea Centre maintains remarkably low prices. This affordable approach stands out among contemporary cafés, suggesting a dedication to providing accessible tea experiences in a fast-paced urban environment.

The architectural style of the building housing the Tea Centre is reflective of Mumbai’s colonial past. The building's design provides insights into the urban planning aesthetic of that era, demonstrating how historical influences shape modern-day buildings and businesses.


Assam tea is a central component of the house blend, chosen not only for its bold flavor but also for its higher caffeine content. This choice is grounded in scientific research suggesting certain tea compounds could potentially boost cognitive function, a factor likely attracting many regular customers.


The atmosphere at the Tea Centre encourages a unique mix of people from all walks of life, creating a melting pot of social interaction not always seen in more modern cafés. This environment fosters unexpected encounters and facilitates connection between people in a way that many other venues struggle to accomplish.

Beyond the simple act of enjoying a cup of tea, the experience at Tea Centre embodies specific social rituals. These customs demonstrate the interesting psychological impact of shared beverages, suggesting that collective experiences might amplify pleasure and build a sense of community among patrons.


As a long-established tea house, the Tea Centre contributes to the burgeoning trend of tea tourism in India. People travel to experience authentic local tastes, delve into historical contexts, and witness the unique brewing procedures. This phenomenon showcases the evolving relationship between travel and culinary experiences.

7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Chaayos Jaipur The Pink City Original Tea House From 1920

Located in the heart of Jaipur, Chaayos has been a popular spot for tea lovers since its establishment in 1920. More than just a tea house, it's a reflection of Jaipur's lively culture and colorful atmosphere. Chaayos offers a diverse selection of chai blends and tasty snacks, providing a calming space for locals and visitors alike. While it stands apart from other well-known Jaipur tea houses like Sahu ki Chai and Gulab Ji Chai Wale, its expansion into a chain across India demonstrates a combination of traditional elements with modern accessibility. This might be seen as a deviation from the purist view of traditional chai culture by some. However, Chaayos undoubtedly remains an important symbol of Jaipur's strong tea tradition, offering visitors a chance to experience a range of flavorful choices.

Chaayos in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, stands as a testament to the enduring tradition of tea houses in India, with roots tracing back to 1920. Its establishment during a pivotal period in India's history lends it a unique historical context. The tea house’s architecture embodies classic Rajasthani design elements, including ornate balconies, providing a stark contrast to many of today’s modern cafes.

The slow brewing methods used at Chaayos underscore a focus on optimizing flavor through heat transfer and diffusion. The science of flavor extraction is a key factor in their approach, which differs from the fast-paced brewing common in some modern cafes. Their menu expands beyond tea with various snacks, like besan chaat and palak pakoras, that blend well with the teas and reflect the region's diverse culinary heritage.

Chaayos attracts a mix of locals and visitors, which has created a dynamic social environment within its walls. It's notable how the psychology of communal eating and drinking impacts these interactions, leading to the exchange of stories and traditions. Incorporating spices like ginger and cardamom, possibly rooted in Ayurveda, creates teas that are said to be beneficial for digestion and immunity. These claims have backing from some scientific studies suggesting health benefits from certain spices.

Surprisingly, Chaayos manages to maintain remarkably low prices, making the experience accessible to a broad segment of the population. This affordability is a notable characteristic that sets it apart from many contemporary urban cafes. Many aspects of the Chaayos experience are steeped in tradition, including practices like serving tea with khara masala, emphasizing the role of ritual in the tasting experience.

Chaayos’s influence has contributed to a revival of interest in old-fashioned tea houses across India, highlighting the significance of heritage businesses in preserving cultural identity within the context of today's world. It's conveniently located in Jaipur, a popular tourist destination. The increasing number of affordable flight options into Jaipur makes exploring this tea house more convenient, further boosting culinary tourism that focuses on local, authentic experiences.

7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Flurys Tea Room in Park Street Kolkata Still Using Original 1927 Recipe

Flurys Tea Room, a fixture on Kolkata's Park Street, has been serving up a taste of 1927 since its founding by Swiss couple Joseph and Frieda Flury. Originally a haven for British colonial society and wealthy Indian residents, it quickly became a cherished local institution. The secret? A dedication to authentic Swiss and European-style pastries, baked with the same recipes from its very start. Flurys has certainly grown from a humble confectionery to a multi-outlet tea room, with a presence even outside Kolkata, in Mumbai and Hyderabad. However, its heart remains on Park Street, where it has become synonymous with Kolkata's colonial past and its unique culinary traditions. The legacy of Flurys is undeniable, acknowledged with a heritage plaque from the Intach Calcutta chapter. For many Kolkata residents, it remains a key part of their memories, often associated with special occasions and shared moments. The tea room changed hands in 1965 but retains a strong sense of continuity, its timeless appeal making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists, currently ranked as the top bakery in Kolkata. Despite the passage of time and trends, Flurys has preserved its identity, giving a unique experience that evokes a refined, bygone era for its patrons.

Flurys Tea Room, nestled on Park Street in Kolkata, has maintained a consistent presence since its inception in 1927 by the Swiss couple, Joseph and Frieda Flury. Its enduring popularity stems from its unwavering dedication to its original recipes, a testament to culinary precision and the impact of consistent preparation techniques on taste. This commitment to the 1927 formula, coupled with its strategic location, quickly made Flurys a favorite among both British colonial elites and affluent Indians, solidifying its status as a cultural cornerstone.


Flurys has steadily evolved from a humble confectionery into a well-regarded tea room with branches across Kolkata, as well as locations in Mumbai and Hyderabad. It stands as a physical testament to Kolkata's colonial past and culinary heritage, an attribute recognized by the Intach Calcutta chapter with the bestowal of a heritage plaque. This establishment has become a significant part of local memory, often associated with significant milestones in Calcuttans' lives.

The legacy of Flurys took an interesting turn in 1965 when Jit Paul, owner of the Park Hotel across the street, acquired the tea room from Joseph Flury under what must have been a particularly compelling circumstance. Despite this ownership shift, the tea room's essence, including the use of its original recipes, hasn't wavered. The emphasis on traditional ingredients, primarily local tea leaves from Assam and Darjeeling, underscores the importance of regionality in tea cultivation and the direct impact of the environment on the resulting flavor profile. Flurys tea preparation also adheres to a traditional slow infusion method, maximizing flavor through a process of diffusion, a scientific method that has long been observed in food sciences.

Flurys' architecture embodies a blend of colonial influence and local design aesthetics, evident in its high ceilings and vintage furnishings. It's not just the aesthetics, however; these features might also have interesting effects on the overall guest experience. The room's acoustics and the flow of movement could also be affected by the layout, which undoubtedly has evolved over the years. Despite its historical and cultural significance, the tea room has remained remarkably affordable, a choice that is increasingly uncommon in a global cafe scene that favors premium-priced options. This strategy raises interesting questions about the relationship between perceived value and pricing in the hospitality industry, a factor often shaped by social and economic trends.

The tea room fosters a sense of community, serving as a meeting place for locals and travelers alike. This social aspect can't be underestimated in an urban context, as community engagement impacts well-being, and contributes to social cohesion. The menu offers a range of teas, both traditional and those purported to have health benefits, drawing on Ayurveda, a medical tradition that emphasizes herbal remedies and spices. Current research does indicate that some tea compounds could be beneficial for overall health. Flurys also demonstrates a strong grasp of food science, especially in terms of pairing its selection of teas with Bengali snacks. This pairing highlights the science of flavor, where different flavor compounds can either complement or clash with each other.


Ultimately, Flurys has become representative of a trend in travel: culinary tourism. It provides a glimpse into a city's history, its culture, and its unique take on an otherwise ordinary beverage. Easier access to flights to Kolkata has further helped cement the position of Flurys as an important stop for anyone wanting to experience something distinctly Indian and a place that retains authenticity.

7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - The Century Old Favorite Tea Centre in Fort Mumbai

Tucked away in Fort, Mumbai, the Century Old Favorite Tea Centre is a beloved haven for chai lovers. It embodies the city's enduring passion for this comforting beverage, serving up traditional brews in a setting that echoes Mumbai's rich history. The tea centre's appeal lies in its commitment to time-honored preparation techniques and the affordable prices it maintains, making it a fixture in the daily lives of many Mumbaikars. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, attracting a diverse crowd of locals and visitors who come together to enjoy a cup of chai and engage in lively conversations. Despite its charm, the tea centre faces the constant challenge of preserving its authenticity in a rapidly changing city. For those looking to delve into Mumbai's culinary heritage, a visit to this establishment isn't just about the tea itself, but experiencing a vital piece of the city's cultural mosaic. It's a reminder that in the heart of a bustling metropolis, simple pleasures like a perfectly brewed cup of chai can transport you to a slower, more nostalgic era.

The Tea Centre, nestled within Mumbai's Fort district, has been a fixture since 1954, showcasing the enduring influence of the colonial era on the city's tea culture. Established under the Tea Board of India, the cafe maintains a distinct vintage aura, with staff often donning uniforms reminiscent of the British Raj. Its allure lies in its expansive tea selection, encompassing traditional brews and unique blends like Butter Apple Tea and Kulhad Chai. Alongside its tea offerings, the cafe provides a menu of vegetarian dishes, making it a wallet-friendly option for a meal, costing roughly 300 INR for two. It attracts patrons throughout the day, from breakfast to dinner, cementing its status as a versatile dining destination in the heart of Mumbai.


This establishment's house blend, a carefully curated mixture of tea leaves, primarily Assam, is a central element of its appeal. The emphasis on Assam tea isn't just about flavor; it's also about its higher caffeine content, aligning with some studies suggesting a link between certain tea compounds and enhanced cognitive functions, making it possibly a favored choice among those who need a boost. The process of brewing this blend involves an intriguing interplay of thermodynamics and fluid dynamics, with a strict control of temperature and steeping time to extract the best possible flavor profiles. It showcases a deeper understanding of the chemistry of tea, which you'd expect from a company associated with the Tea Board.


The very architecture of the building, with its high ceilings and wide-open spaces, is reminiscent of a bygone era, offering a glimpse into urban planning ideals during the British era. The effect of this structure on the overall experience isn't limited to aesthetics. The layout likely influences sound propagation and the movement of people within the space. It's fascinating how architecture impacts the experience of enjoying a cup of tea.


The cafe provides a blend of both old and new, reflecting a dynamic Mumbai where traditional practices and modern convenience coexist. The service adopts a similar strategy, using traditional tea preparation methods combined with the accessibility of a menu that offers diverse pairings, complementing the different tea flavors through culinary science principles of flavor combination. You can observe this at the interplay of the teas with the vegetarian dishes in their menu.

While it’s certainly part of Mumbai's social fabric, the tea centre is surprisingly affordable, a rare find amidst Mumbai's increasing urban sprawl and premium-priced cafes. This affordability makes the experience accessible to a broader spectrum of the community and also hints at how the Tea Board might be interested in making a certain type of beverage accessible to people across socio-economic strata. It offers a glimpse into the social dynamics that tea can foster. The environment promotes interactions between people, potentially serving as a social lubricant within the bustling city. This sense of community, where diverse groups meet over a cup of tea, adds to the character and charm of The Tea Centre.

Though the current status of the Tea Centre is uncertain, its history as a haven for locals and a showcase of India's tea heritage remains. It highlights Mumbai's rich past, reflecting both a colonial legacy and a more local, indigenous approach to an iconic drink. It's a venue where the interaction between urban life and India's heritage come together in a steaming cup of chai, making it an interesting stop for anyone looking for something authentic.

7 Hidden Chai Destinations in India A Traveler's Guide to Century-Old Tea Houses and Local Favorites - Bomti's Drawing Room Tea Service in North Kolkata Since 1890

Bomti's Drawing Room Tea Service, nestled in North Kolkata, has been a haven for tea lovers since 1890, offering a glimpse into the city's rich culinary past. Surajit "Bomti" Iyengar, a prominent figure within Kolkata's intellectual circles, established this charming tea house, which retains a distinct colonial elegance. The tea service is tucked away on the third floor of a building with a weathered colonial facade, almost hidden from the hustle and bustle of the city. Inside, you'll discover a cozy space where time seems to slow down.

Bomti's serves a range of authentic Bengali cuisine, and the accompanying tea selections are a perfect complement to the meals. This establishment serves as a reminder of Kolkata's long and complex relationship with tea and the city's culinary heritage. The setting itself transports you to a different era, making it a unique and delightful experience for both local patrons and curious visitors. The prices are affordable, inviting you to sample a truly authentic taste of Kolkata in a setting brimming with history and charm. If you are traveling to Kolkata, you shouldn't miss Bomti's.

Bomti's Drawing Room, nestled in North Kolkata, has been serving up a taste of history since 1890. It's a fascinating glimpse into Kolkata's evolving tea culture and how social gatherings have changed over the past century. The building itself embodies the architectural styles of 19th-century Kolkata, with a weathered colonial facade hinting at the era when the city was a British stronghold. It's interesting to observe how the building's design, with its maze of offices, shapes the atmosphere and the social interactions within its walls.

The owner, Surajit "Bomti" Iyengar, is a significant figure in Kolkata's intellectual circles, which may partly explain the tea house's role as a gathering point for the city's creative and scholarly community. Bomti's predominantly features local tea varieties sourced from Assam and Darjeeling. This focus on regionally-cultivated teas highlights the impact of local agricultural practices and specific environmental conditions on the resulting flavor profiles. The brewing methods are quite traditional, emphasizing a slow-steeping approach that optimizes flavor extraction. This is where basic thermodynamics comes into play, underscoring the importance of heat transfer in the preparation of an enjoyable cup of tea.

Surprisingly, despite its long history and cultural significance, Bomti's retains quite affordable prices, unlike many of today's upscale cafes. This raises questions about the economic context of the tea house and its role in providing a space that's accessible across a wider range of income levels. Bomti's isn't just about the tea, it also offers a range of Bengali snacks that are thoughtfully paired with the various teas. This careful curation of the menu likely stems from a solid understanding of flavor combinations and how certain tastes complement each other. The tea house acts as a social meeting point, welcoming both locals and visitors, offering a microcosm of the diverse social fabric of Kolkata. Observing these social interactions is quite interesting, because they demonstrate how communal meals and drinks can influence people's social bonds and connections.


As an informal gathering spot for various generations and backgrounds, Bomti's has become a cultural crossroads, a location where people from different walks of life can interact and exchange stories. This has contributed to a sense of cultural exchange and a tangible connection to the city's unique heritage. Bomti's isn't just a place to have tea; it has played host to various community events and gatherings over the decades, underscoring its place as a hub for cultural traditions and stories. In the world of growing tea tourism, Bomti's is an enticing option for those seeking an authentic cultural experience. With increasing flight options to Kolkata, it's becoming easier for people to visit this century-old gem, which has been silently preserving a significant part of Kolkata's heritage and culinary culture.