Kolkata is a paradise for students — from steaming rolls in Park Street to college canteen icons near Jadavpur and Presidency University. The city offers rich flavours, huge portions, and crazy budget-friendly pricing. Here are the Top 10 Student-Friendly Cheap Eats in Kolkata you absolutely can’t miss.
1. Arsalan, Park Circus
No Kolkata food list is complete without Arsalan — the king of biryani. Their Chicken Biryani and Mutton Biryani are unbelievably flavourful, with long aromatic rice, tender meat, and that classic Kolkata aloo in every plate. Students from Park Street, Quest Mall area, and nearby colleges flock here for affordable biryani feasts. A single plate ranges ₹170–₹260, making it perfect for filling lunches.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XakKtny3st6b6WRx5
2. Peter Cat, Park Street
Famous for its Chelo Kebab, Peter Cat gives you a premium experience at a surprisingly student-manageable price if you select wisely. The iconic dish comes with buttery rice, kebabs, and grilled tomato — a student favourite for birthdays or treat days. Students also love their sizzlers and mocktails. Budget: ₹250–₹400 for the signature dish.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LS82cUxP8nMtZyVa7
3. Zaika, Park Street (Rolls Heaven)
One of the oldest roll joints in Kolkata, Zaika is famous for its Egg Roll, Egg-Chicken Roll, and Double Mutton Roll. Juicy fillings, flaky paratha, and perfectly spiced — no wonder students treat it like a second canteen. Prices range from ₹50–₹140 depending on the fillings. A must-visit for quick evening cravings.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FcguE1GD183yHQtHA
4. Jadavpur University 8B Bus Stand Food Stalls
A legendary student hub, the 8B stalls serve everything from momos to egg rolls, chowmein, Maggi, fried rice, cutlets, and iced tea — all extremely budget-friendly. Students absolutely love the Chicken Momo, Fish Cutlet, and Lemon Tea. Most items cost ₹20–₹80, making it one of the cheapest student food zones in the city.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iq4ao8XxsC8z3jC89
5. Sharma Tea House, College Street
Near Presidency and Calcutta University, Sharma Tea House is famous for its comforting Kachori Sabzi, Bread Toast, and Masala Kulhad Chai. Students love the budget-friendly breakfast options that taste fresh and homely. The vibe is always buzzing thanks to the college crowd. Expect to spend ₹20–₹70 for most items.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/8M8z4saKhm9sqSVw7
6. Balwant Singh’s Eating House, Bhawanipur
Open late into the night, Balwant Singh’s is iconic for its Doodh Coke, Singara, Toast Butter, and malai-laden Hot Milk. It’s one of the most relaxed and student-friendly tea joints in Kolkata. Perfect for post-study group hangs or night walks. Most items fall between ₹20–₹120.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4pZehzWB2qm9aQYU7
7. Mitra Café, Shobhabazar
Founded in 1920, Mitra Café is a Kolkata icon known for its incredibly delicious cutlets and chops. Students absolutely love their Fish Kabiraji, Mutton Chop, and Chicken Cutlets — crispy outside, juicy inside, full of flavour. Everything is budget-friendly (₹60–₹140), making it a must-visit classic.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7DwVVavnd6jDF6pv7
8. Oh! Calcutta, Elgin Road (Student Buffet Trick)
Although known as a premium restaurant, their weekday lunch thali/buffet is surprisingly affordable for students who want to try authentic Bengali cuisine. Expect Bhapa Ilish, Kosha Mangsho, Luchi, Cholar Dal, Misti Doi, and more. Perfect for birthday treats or when parents visit. Buffet ranges ₹350–₹500 on weekdays.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/X7uQ8ZBvVymgMcFa8
9. Golbari, Shyambazar
One of the oldest restaurants in the city, Golbari is iconic for its spicy, dark, slow-cooked Kosha Mangsho served with soft porotas. The dish is rich, flavourful, and a must-try for students exploring authentic Kolkata non-veg offerings. Prices are super affordable — ₹150–₹250 for a full hearty plate.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/utCgm1B3LhfVSeDv6
10. Nizam’s Restaurant, New Market
The birthplace of Kolkata rolls, Nizam’s is a culinary icon. Their Double Egg Chicken Roll and Kathi Kebab rolls are unmatched — soft paratha, smoky kebabs, onions, and tangy sauces. Students love this place for quick, filling meals at ₹60–₹160. Perfect after shopping or college lectures around the New Market area.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5AeAXSUSe3sb1Ehk9
