From my experience of spending a few months in Kolkata, it is safe to say every galli or street has their own favourite phuchkawalla. Seen as no one less than a star, they are eagerly awaited every evening by people, irrespective of age. The famously known Dilip da at Vivekananda Park, off Southern Avenue, serves phuchkas different from other variants of the same snack. The filling is made of lightly mashed boiled potatoes with black snkg, snkg, tamarind pulp, spices and chili powder while the water is the light and tart Tetul Jol or Tamarind Water prepared by mixing tamarind, spices and snkg.
7. Chakraberia, Kolkata
Meet Upinder, owner of a phuchka stall near Triangular Park in Chakraberia, which specialises in serving special Jain pani puris. Running the business for the last 40 years, he caters to the demand of the Jain community residing nearby. Instead of potatoes, the masala is prepared with mashed bananas, providing a unique flavor. He also prepares aloo phuchka for his non-Jain customers. The other ingredients of this landmark dish are mineral water, shredded chilies and boiled grams.
8. Vardaan Market, Kolkata
Easily the staple snack of Kolkata, phuchka is widely consumed by customers of all age groups just outside Vardaan Market. Often described as heavenly, the filling is prepared with freshly ground spices. The aroma of jeera, methi, dhania and ajwain is enough to give you a foodgasm. The minty-tamarind chutney is definitely the best in competition.