Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

The sharp zing of onions as you slice them fine, the clang of pans and pots, the distinct aroma of Bengali spices as they hit the hot oil. These are flavours we grow up with.

Every Bangladeshi kitchen is a mix of fragrances and tastes. The smell of fresh tomatoes being sliced and cooked with cuts of rui, hilsa simmering in a broth of mustard paste or the variety of 'bhortas' we so pride ourselves in -- green bananas, potatoes, tomatoes: we can turn any vegetable into a 'bhorta' with just the simple tweaking of sliced onions, mustard oil and roasted chillies.

The Bengali palate of course is not limited to the simple curries and 'bhortas'. Years of influence from various cultures has resulted in the creation of something uniquely Bengali even if these are Mughal dishes we cook.

The food scene in Dhaka is on fast-forward mode with almost all cuisines from the world around being available just a car ride away. With that in mind the Bengali craving for the homely meals of one's childhood still remains and this has led to many restaurants still catering to the quintessentially Bengali taste.

This week, Star Lifestyle lists some of the eateries where you can find the best of Bengali cuisine.

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

Hotel Kosturi

This is 'the' place to be if you want to have authentic Bengali meals. Famous among office goers, this place is quite the institution for Bengali cuisine lovers. They sell bhaat (steamed Rice), lentils, vegetable dishes, fish curries and stews and a whole assortment of 'bhortas' (mashed vegetables seasoned with mustard oil, salt and red chilli flakes and they are especially famed for their 'koi mach' curry. Address: 8, Purana Paltan, Bijoynagar. #956 9942.

Dhanshiri Restora

This restaurant has quite a few branches and one can grab a quick and filling lunch amidst much hustle and bustle characteristic of this place. A great place for breakfast with 'chicken korma', vegetables, lentils and fresh 'naan' and they also provide superb lunch and dinner. Their fish dishes are a joy to the soul especially the 'hilsha-do-peaja' and prawn curry.

Address: House# 9/D, Road# 45,  Plot#32, A (Ground floor) Gulshan # 2. 988 2125, 985 0323.

Gharoa Restaurant

Most people who have been to this place will attest to the fact that it sells some of the best 'khichuri' you will ever taste. Khichuri is a quintessential Bangladeshi rendition and modification of pulao where meat, lentils and spices are added to rice.  Located near Modhumita Cinema Hall, this place will surely give you delights worth your money. Address: 4, Motijheel Commercial Area, Motijheel. 0171 541 3059.

Korai Gosht

Good Local cuisine and a family atmosphere make this place worth a visit. They also serve excellent 'khichuri', rice with lentils and beef with a side of mango pickle. They also have lunch buffets and an assortment of 'bhortas' which are lip-smackingly delicious. And if it is 'biriyanis' you crave then this place has amazing 'handi biriyani', which comes in a copper pot. The restaurant is located at Dhanmondi 3/A, Shatmosjid Road. #862 5135, 0172 664 4165.

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed

Hotel Nirob

The name does not need any introduction to Dhakaiites. Growing from a small restaurant selling plain white rice and curries, today Nirob is a brand all its own. Fish curry in red hot broths, 'bhortas' make up the classic Bengali fare. Located at 113/2, Nazimuddin Road. Add it to your to-do list.

Star Kabab

Craving kebabs? Star Kabab is where you can satiate that craving. Many branches of this now famous restaurant operate throughout the city. The smell of charred meat drugs your senses as you enter this eatery. Location: Dhanmondi 2, Opposite Popular Diagnostics. #967 6847.

The list for excellent Bengali fare is endless. So if it is 'deshi khabar' you crave this summer you know where to head to. Other places to try include are Al Razzaque, Haji Biriyani, etc. Bon Appetit! 

By Abida Rahman Chowdhury

Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed