London is a melting pot of diverse cultures, each contributing to the city’s vibrant culinary scene. For those seeking an authentic taste of Bangladesh in the heart of London, Whitechapel is the go-to destination. This historic area is renowned for its rich Bengali heritage and offers a plethora of eateries that serve up traditional Bengali breakfast delights. In this blog post, we embark on a flavourful journey to Whitechapel to explore the authentic Bengali breakfast options that tantalise taste buds and transport diners to the streets of Bengal.
The Bengali Breakfast Culture
In Bangladesh, breakfast is an essential meal that sets the tone for the day. Rich in flavours and textures, Bengali breakfast dishes are a delightful fusion of tradition and innovation, offering a glimpse into the region’s culinary heritage.
The Iconic Puri and Cholar Dal or Bengali Omelette
One of the most beloved Bengali breakfasts is Puri and Cholar Dal. Puri, a deep-fried bread, is soft and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. It pairs perfectly with Cholar Dal, a mildly sweet and aromatic lentil dish made with Bengal gram and coconut. This combination creates a harmonious balance of flavours that is sure to leave diners craving for more. The Bengali omelette is like a cross between a fried egg and an omelette with spices to spice it up.
Luchi and Alur Torkari or Ghoru Mangsho
Similar to Puri, Luchi is a deep-fried bread that perfectly complements Alur Torkari, a delectable potato curry. The potatoes are simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, creating a savory and comforting dish that showcases the essence of Bengali cuisine. For meat lovers, there is Ghoro Mangsho is a thick beef curry that has a thick spicy gravy and is accompanied perfectly with paratha (or luchi or puri) for breakfast. This will definitely wake you up.
Chingri Bhaja and Panta Bhat
For seafood enthusiasts, Chingri Bhaja, or fried prawns, is a must-try Bengali breakfast delicacy. The prawns are marinated with spices and then fried to perfection, resulting in a crunchy and flavourful treat. Panta Bhat, or fermented rice, is a refreshing accompaniment, offering a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the prawns. It is a very unique dish that is made up of left over rice from the night before and water.
Mishti: The Sweet Indulgence
No Bengali breakfast is complete without a touch of sweetness. Mishti, a variety of Bengali sweets, offers an indulgent ending to the meal. From Rasgulla, a spongy cheese ball soaked in sugar syrup, to Sandesh, a delightful sweet made from paneer, Mishti adds a heartwarming touch to the breakfast experience. Read more about Bengali sweets here.
Exploring Whitechapel’s Bengali Breakfast Scene
Whitechapel is a treasure trove of authentic Bengali eateries, each offering its unique take on traditional dishes. From well-established restaurants to hidden gems, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich flavours of Bangladesh right here in the heart of London. From them are two spots right next to one another that we noticed serve breakfast. We visited Ponchokhana and even though their breakfast menu didn’t have all of the above options, there was still decent choices to choose from. We got paratha, beef curry and Bengali omelette. In all honesty, the taste was a bit underwhelming. Nothing like the restaurants in Madina for example. Just lacked in flavour.
Getting there
Nearest station: Whitechapel
Nearest mosque: East London Mosque
Parking: Most if not all the roads behind the East London Mosque are free evenings and weekends, but there is literally a competition for parking spaces. So, be prepared to drive around in circles and wait till you find something to pounce on.
