There are restaurants that serve memories. Bangalir Swade Ahlade falls firmly in the latter category. With its unapologetic focus on authentic Bengali cuisine, this hidden gem has quickly become a sanctuary for those craving the bold, comforting, and nostalgic flavors of Bengal. First Impressions: A Taste of Bengal Before the First Bite Located in a quiet neighborhood just beyond the city’s hustle in Puri, Bangalir Swade Ahlade is instantly welcoming. The exterior, modest and traditional, gives way to a space that feels more like a lovingly preserved drawing room from a North Kolkata home than a commercial eatery. Inside, the ambience is steeped in Bengali charm: cane and wooden furniture, soft yellow lighting and vintage black-&-white and colourful photos of Kolkata’s golden era. Soft strains of Rabindra Sangeet or Hemanta Mukherjee fill the air, making the experience sensory even before food reaches the table. Service: Warm, Informative, and Unhurried The service mirrors the spirit of Bengali hospitality — unpretentious, warm, and attentive without being intrusive. The staff here don’t just serve food; they tell stories. When we asked about the difference between Shorshe Bata and Posto Bata, our server offered a mini-lesson on mustard's pungency versus poppy seeds’ creaminess — something you’d expect from a food historian, not a waiter. There’s no rush to turn tables. Guests are encouraged to eat slowly, talk, and let the meal unfold — just like in a Bengali household. The Food: Rooted in Tradition, Cooked with Heart The menu at Bangalir Swade Ahlade reads like a love letter to Bengali cuisine — not just Kolkata-style restaurant fare, but home-cooked delicacies from both ghoti and bangal traditions. We began with: Main Course: Shorshe Ilish: The hilsa was fresh and cooked just right — soft, buttery, and swimming in a mustard gravy that hit all the right notes: pungent, tangy, and slightly bitter. This was a masterclass in how simplicity can be sublime. Kosha Mangsho: This rich, slow-cooked mutton curry was deep in flavor, with perfectly tender pieces coated in a dark, spicy gravy. It paired wonderfully with hot luchis — soft yet crisp puffed breads. Chingri Malai Curry: Jumbo prawns in a coconut milk-based gravy, mildly spiced and smooth. The balance of flavors was spot-on — sweet, creamy, and faintly nutty. Bhetki Paturi: Bhetki fish marinated in mustard paste, wrapped in banana leaf, and steamed. The leaf imparted a smoky aroma that took the dish to another level. These were served with fragrant gobindobhog bhaat, steaming white rice, and crisp begun bhaja (fried eggplant slices), reminding us of countless Sunday lunches at home. Sides & Extras: Alu Posto and Kochupatta Diye Chingri Bhapa were beautifully cooked — light, subtle, and comforting. Shukto, the traditional bitter-sweet Bengali mixed veg starter, was delicately balanced and full of umami. Desserts: Mishti Doi: House-made, chilled, and creamy with a caramelized top — just sweet enough. Nolen Gurer Ice Cream: Seasonal and irresistible. The jaggery flavor was deep and fragrant — a modern touch that didn’t betray the soul of the cuisine. Price: Meals are very reasonably priced for the quality and authenticity. Expect to spend about ₹800–₹1,000 per person for a full spread, including starters, main course, desert and beverages. Prices are slightly higher but well justifed by portion size and preparation. Final Verdict: Bangalir Swade Ahlade is not just a restaurant — it’s a cultural experience. It’s where food meets memory, where flavors transport you to lazy afternoons in your bari (ancestral home), and where the menu reads like pages from a Bengali cookbook passed down generations. Whether you’re a homesick Bengali or someone curious about Bengal’s rich culinary tradition, this place delivers with honesty, heart, and a whole lot of flavor. Must-Try Dishes: Shorshe Ilish, Kosha Mangsho, Kochupatta Diye Chingri Bhapa, Nolen Gurer Ice Cream Perfect For: Family meals, nostalgic Bengalis, cultural foodies, and first-timers seeking authentic...
Read moreTitle: Extremely Disappointing Experience at Bangalir Swade Alhade Restaurant
I recently dined at Bangalir Swade Alhade restaurant, and I must say, it was an incredibly disappointing experience from start to finish.
The problems began with the food. Not only did the dishes not match our orders, but the quality of the food was subpar. We had high expectations for authentic and delicious Bengali cuisine, but what we received was far from it. The taste was bland, and the presentation left much to be desired.
To make matters worse, the service was shockingly poor. Our orders were mixed up, and it took an unreasonable amount of time for the correct dishes to arrive. The staff seemed disorganized and unresponsive to our concerns, which only added to our frustration.
However, the most concerning aspect of our visit was the rude behavior exhibited by the restaurant staff. They showed a complete lack of professionalism and courtesy towards customers. It's unacceptable to be treated with disrespect and disdain when dining out.
I would strongly advise against dining at Bangalir Swade Alhade restaurant based on my unfortunate experience. The combination of bad food, terrible service, and rude behavior made this a dining experience I would rather forget. Save yourself the disappointment and look for better dining options...
Read moreI went to this restaurant on 26 / 12/2021 for dinner.i had a worst experience here.1. I ordered for D.D RICE, VEG DAL , JHURI ALOO BHAJA, AND BHATKI PATHURI. When I oreded I asked how many pieces of BHATKI will be there then the waiter said 2 piece sir. Now when our order came we saw veg dal is missing .so iasked for that they said veg dal is finished . Meansafter received my order and when we asked for our missing item that time they are informing. 2. When we opened the BHATKI PATHURI we saw it only on piece that also a small broken 4 piece ( weight approx 40-50gm that look like fish fry fillet). When we complain they trying to bluff us by giving many reason. As I have a food business so I fought when they saw this customer has knowledge about food they started abusing me. Their waiter also said ( boka choda) which me and my wife and all customer heard that . And during billing they added extra item in our bill. Also there are two customer was sitting beside me one customer have same issue like me item missing and other customers received rice with a big black hair in it .when they complain about it .maneger and other staff saying it's natural it might come please try to abide this...
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