The restaurants below have been classed in four different pricing categories and are listed alphabetically:
$$$$ (over Rs1,000)
$$$ (Rs750 to Rs1,000)
$$ (Rs500 to Rs750)
$ (under Rs500)
These prices are for a three-course meal for one, including tax but not drinks. Tipping is optional.

Dum Pukht
Experience the traditional rich cuisine of royal India at this superb fine-dining restaurant. Food here is covered with a pastry layer as it cooks, allowing the flavours to steam to delicious perfection. A fantastic variety, including some of the best meat curries and seafood specialities you'll ever taste. Open evenings only.

ITC Sonar, 1 JBS Halden Avenue
Tel: (033) 2345 4545.
Website: www.itcwelcomgroup.in
Price: $$$$

Kewpies
With a loyal following, Kewpies is known as 'Purveyors of authentic Bengali food' for good reason. Down a narrow alleyway and dining in the owner's house, it may be small and rustic but that's half the charm. Tuck into a thali (several dishes served on one plate, refilled limitlessly); the boss can help you decipher the choices on the menu. Heartily recommended. Closed Monday.

2 Elgin Lane, off Heysham Road, behind Netaji Bhavan
Tel: (033) 2475 9880.
Price: $

Mainland China
Sterling Chinese food, some of the most authentic in Kolkata. The dim sum is sublime and good to share as a starter, with a tempting selection of steamed and fried dumplings. There are crisp fried dishes as well as those cooked in a heavy sauce; favourites include the Peking Duck, jumbo prawns, and drunken chicken in Shaoxiang wine. The service is courteous and the interior stylish.

Uniworth House, 3A Gurusaday Road
Tel: (033) 2283 7964.
Website: www.mainlandchinaindia.com/contact_kolkata.html
Price: $$-$$$

Oh! Calcutta
Ignore the slightly sterile atmosphere of the shopping mall; this place is recommended for Bengali food, with some good north Indian and continental choices too. Dishes use unusual subtle flavours like banana flowers, and innovative combinations of ingredients. Great service, contemporary feel.

10/3 Elgin Road, 4/F Forum Shopping Mall
Tel: (033) 2283 7161.
Price: $$-$$$

Peter Cat
A Park Street (and indeed Kolkata) institution, the food here (an assortment of Indian dishes, as well as some continental offerings) is top class and hot value for money. Start by picking an aperitif or two along with some spicy north Indian kebabs. Very popular at weekends, the interior is atmospheric, and the food fresh and tasty.

18 Park Street
Tel: (033) 2229 8841 or 2217 2942.
Price: $