Ahana Dutt opens Kolkata Social showcasing Bengali cuisine

Ahana Dutt, a talented chef from India, is opening a new restaurant in Sydney called Kolkata Social on March 26. Dutt wants to introduce people to Bengali cuisine, which is often overlooked in Indian restaurants. She aims to go beyond popular dishes like butter chicken. Dutt previously worked at a restaurant called Raja, where she received awards for her cooking. She has a strong background, having worked in high-end kitchens like Firedoor. At Kolkata Social, much of the menu features recipes from her family's recipes, connecting her past with her new venture. The restaurant is located in Newtown and has a unique all-female kitchen team, with only one man in the kitchen. Dutt enjoys mentoring her staff and sharing Bengali dishes, just like her mother did with her. One of the special dishes is smoked baramundi curry, using fish popular in Kolkata. Kolkata Social will offer different types of flatbreads, replacing the usual naan with radhabollobhi, which has a lentil filling. Dutt also plans to experiment with fried eggplant dishes and desserts that feature family recipes. This new eatery is part of a social enterprise called Plate it Forward, founded by Shaun Christie-David. The group aims to help people facing employment barriers. Dutt has been training staff for this organization and contributing to its mission of supporting women in the hospitality industry.