Chaat is a beloved food for Desis worldwide, and Bollywood stars are no exception. Back in 2022, during an episode of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’, Amitabh Bachchan hosted his ‘Uunchai’ co-stars Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, and Neena Gupta. The conversation took a delightful turn away from the film and focused instead on their favorite foods from the filming process.
Delhi’s Bengali Market emerged as a consensus favorite, with Anupam Kher specifically praising Nathu’s Sweets and Bengali Sweets, which are located across from each other. Amitabh Bachchan, with his deep knowledge from his college days, revealed that he preferred a savory treat and would venture to the lanes behind these well-known sweet shops for chaat and paani puri. Boman Irani also shared that whenever there was a food scene during ‘Uunchai’s’ shoot, Big B would always sample the food first.
Bengali Market, located near Mandi House in the heart of Delhi, is a small yet cherished shopping destination centered around a busy roundabout on Todarmal Road. This historic spot, despite its modest size, has built a lasting reputation for its exceptional sweets and street food.
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Two iconic eateries, Bengali Sweet House and Nathu’s Sweets, are at the heart of this market, drawing crowds with their offerings of North Indian delicacies. From hearty dishes like rajma chawal and chole bhature to crunchy golgappas and rich sweets, both places offer something for every taste. Nathu’s even has a small bakery, tempting customers with freshly baked pastries and puffs.
Bengali Market’s refined yet vibrant atmosphere extends beyond food. Flower vendors line the streets, adding color to the surroundings, while fruit sellers and specialty food shops round out the market’s offerings, making it both a local treasure and a welcoming space for visitors. However, due to its popularity, especially during peak hours, be prepared for a wait to snag a table. But as Delhi residents will attest, the wait is always worth it for a taste of Bengali Market’s celebrated cuisine.
While it is frequented primarily by locals, Bengali Market’s excellent street food has earned its place among the city’s best and even caught Bollywood’s attention.
