Tucked away in a forgotten alley of Kolkata lies ‘Raj’s Spanish Cafe’, a haven for artists and culinary enthusiasts alike. Owned by Rajendra Kumar Pal, the heart and soul of the cafe belong to Sagnik Ghosh, who has embraced its spirit. Located at 7, Sudder St, Fire Brigade Head Quarter, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016. The cafe offers the wall for creativity to flourish. Wherever you come up with ideas and creativity, you can write them on the wall. Books can be taken to read. Signature dishes like Soufflé Di Cioccolato and wood-fired oven pizzas grace the menu, inspired by recipes shared by worldly visitors. ‘Raj’s Spanish Cafe’ is more than just a dining establishment; it’s a cultural oasis where love, art, and flavour converge.
As twilight descends upon Kolkata, the anticipation for the reopening of Raj’s Spanish Cafe fills the air with excitement and warmth. Tucked away in the heart of the city, this beloved establishment owes its charm and success to the indomitable spirit of Sagnik Ghosh, the heart and soul of the cafe.
Sagnik Ghosh’s unwavering dedication and passion for creating exceptional culinary experiences form the cornerstone of Raj’s Spanish Cafe’s enduring appeal. With a deep understanding of the profound impact food can have on fostering connections and joy, Sagnik shares the inspiration behind the cafe’s daily reopening, rooted in the profound joy and attachment of its loyal patrons, even amidst challenging times such as the COVID-19 shutdown.
Central to the cafe’s acclaim is its legendary Choco Lava cake with Vanilla, a masterpiece that has garnered widespread acclaim and adoration. Sagnik attributes its success not only to its exquisite taste but also to the personal stories and experiences shared by patrons, reflecting the cafe’s commitment to quality and uniqueness.
With a decade-long journey marked by unwavering commitment and passion, Sagnik reminisces about memorable incidents, from the vibrant energy of his first day at the cafe to the cherished tradition of preparing ‘Paella’ with Rafael, a beloved 90-year-old Spanish man whose visits evoke anticipation and delight among locals and foreigners alike.
As August approaches, excitement mounts for the exclusive preparation of Paella at Raj’s Spanish Cafe, a tradition that embodies the spirit of community and cultural exchange. Last year’s celebration of Rafael’s 90th birthday stands as a testament to the enduring bonds forged within the cafe’s vibrant community.
Having personally indulged in the Soufflé Di Cioccolato, the cafe’s quintessential dessert, I must confess it’s magic. Since yesterday KFC choco lava cake was my favourite but after trying this, from today it’s my favourite. It takes around 52 minutes to bake it. And they always serve it fresh. The sight of molten chocolate cascading from the cake, intermingling with creamy vanilla, is pure mouthwatering enchantment. Such is its allure that resistance proves futile; a return visit becomes inevitable.
With its commitment to culinary excellence and cultural immersion, Raj’s Spanish Cafe continues to captivate hearts and palates alike, serving as a testament to the power of good food and community spirit.
By: Ankitaa Bal
From Kolkata
Reporting for ‘True to Life”