City Scape: India’s Answer to Hamburger & Pizza ,Yes it’s the Kathi Kabab Roll. This lip smacking gastronomic delight is still being sold, in its original form at the more than 50 years old Nizam’s, near Hogg Market, Kolkata. The iconic outlet oozes full bodied Mughlai appeal and aroma. The process of making kababs here has remained unchanged over the years. It’s a rare sight to behold indeed. Small pieces of Mutton,Chicken,Cheese etc. after having been pan fried, are traditionally grilled over a charcoal fire, on small thin wooden sticks. Thus the name Kathi (small sticks) Kababs.The succulence is to be eaten to be believed. Many have attempted to copy the Nizam’s style of Rolls but have failed. The copy cats cannot reproduce the original Nizam’s crispy, subtle, trademark taste, despite resorting to tricks like putting a variety of sauces or even gravy.
This restaurant has earned an enviable place in the annals of history of Kolkata.Though lacking the modern looks of a glam restaurant or modern bistro, the place enfolds clients in a special old word charm and warmth. Some may find it a bit ‘dingy’ but food quality more than makes up for the lack of chic. Nizam’s is very popular with the youth, sports persons, actors, politicians and even nostalgic solid citizens of Kolkata. Of course the Boxwallah types were never fond of it.
The traditional Bengal monsoon pit patting outside, a warm glow from traditional Mughal style lamps, a Nizam’s Kathi Roll in hand is what makes life worth living! Many a budget conscious couple can be seen inside, huddled over goodies, deeply engaged in otherworldly debate. Somehow, it feels that Nizam’s patrons are striving, maybe inadvertently, to pocket a small bit of fast vanishing Kolkata city scape.
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