Kolkata Nightlife

The saying goes that Kolkata had restaurants before the rest of Indian heard of “eating out,” and “the city of Joy” continues to nourish a superlative culinary tradition. And while the jazz clubs of the colonial British Raj-era are now mostly gone, modern-day Kolkata is re-establishing a distinctive nightlife scene.

• 1) Big Ben

  Another of Kolkata's favorite English pubs is Big Ben in the Kenilworth Hotel. The barman is rumored to be the best in town and on most nights a live band entertains guests on the dance floor. An Intimate space, Big Ben only holds 110 comfortably; but it's the best place for western tourists to throw back a few afte ...

• 2) Kwality

  Locals also enjoy Kwality in the upscale, colonial-influenced Esplanade neighborhood.

• 3) Oh Calcutta!

  To dine on some of the best Bengali food you'll ever have the pleasure of tasting, head over to Oh Calcutta! in the Forum shopping mall. Located on the fourth floor, Oh Calcutta! is popular amongst affluent residents, yuppies and ex-pats.

• 4) Some Place Else

  Located in the Park Hotel is an attractive, welcoming club called Some Place Else. The bar's theme is English pub, and the wrought iron, polished wood and British memorabilia evoke the desired effect. Fans of old school pop and rock should find some time for Some Place Else.

• 5) Tantra

  Inside The Park Hotel is Kolkata's trendiest club, aptly named Tantra. With over 5,000 sq feet of space spread across two floors, the scene-y Tantra has a massive dance floor, two bars and a sleek VIP area called “The Santra Room.” If you have friends in Kolkata, try to secure a spot on Tantra's Bodhi Ba ...