Here’s a hand-picked list of the best bars in town:

Shaw’s Bar or Chhota Bristol at Esplanade

It’s one of the oldest bars in town. But wait, that’s not their specialty. This is a men’s only bar. If you go between 6-6:15 PM, the service will be stopped. And the reason ? Inside this fully operational pub, an evening puja will be going on. Surprising, yes, but who cares as long as the AC and beer both are chilled.  This bar also boasts of a huge list of snacks ranging from mutton liver fry to fish finger and cheese cubes, all delivered by outside vendors.

Someplace Else at The Park Hotel

If you want music with your booze, Kolkata has got Someplace Else, tucked inside The Park Kolkata. For over two decades, this pub has been giving Kolkata it’s steady dose of quality live music performances. Some of the most prominent faces in the music industry started their career from here. Another reason to go is their lovely draught beer and sausage fry.

Broadway at G. C Avenue

Somebody once said, if you want to know any city, visit its local pubs. And it can be safely said that Broadway at Ganesh Chandra Avenue, represents Kolkata. The décor, the high ceiling with long hanging fans, wooden chairs and laid back ambience – time seems to take a rest here. And considering Kolkata’s love for fish, from mourola to seasonal hilsa, the variety of fish they serve here, with moderately priced booze, is amazing.

The Grid at Topsia

If there is a new-born star in Kolkata pub scenario, it is this place. It boasts of one of the finest microbreweries in town, an extremely talented brew-master and one of the best kitchen team to complement it all. From fruity Caldera to some strong Amber Ale, the sheer variety is something you must experience. The food ranges from some mind-blowing pizza to hard-to-beat global food. And, don’t miss the chef’s special dessert selection here.