An uncharacteristically sharp winter in the City of Joy is serving up a steaming hot business opportunity for its vibrant cafe scene. As Kolkata endures its coldest winter in 13 years, coffee shops and eateries are witnessing a remarkable surge, with patrons seeking warmth, caffeine, and the quintessential long adda.
Frosty Weather, Sizzling Business
The mercury's dip has directly translated into packed tables and longer customer stays. Cafe owners report a significant boost, with business increasing by 20 to 25 percent compared to usual seasons. The demand for hot brews and comfort food has skyrocketed, creating a quiet bonanza for the hospitality sector.
"This has been my best winter in five years," revealed Nikhil Chawla, associated with Poach Kitchen and Marbella's. He noted that people are even queuing up for outdoor seating, drawn by the crisp air. "Our live terrace barbecue has been a hit. We extended our weekend operations until 2 am to accommodate the crowd," Chawla added.
Winter's Winning Menu: Sips and Bites
The city's palate has distinctly shifted towards warming, indulgent items. Seasonal champions leading the sales charts include:
- Kesar chai and aromatic Kahwa
- Rich, decadent hot chocolate with torched marshmallows
- Robust cappuccinos, Vietnamese coffee, and mochas
On the food front, comfort is king. Amit Sharma, partner at Kaldi Bean, highlights dishes like Mushroom on toast, Grilled pork sausages, and the Hot honey chicken pizza as top picks. The Kosha mansho burger and Champaran mutton are also emerging as heavy favorites for the season. Sizzlers and breakfast platters complete the picture of perfect winter fare.
The Return of the Leisurely Adda
Beyond the menu, the real change is in the atmosphere. The chilly respite from Kolkata's typical humidity has encouraged people to reclaim the art of the unhurried adda. Cafe spaces are buzzing with conversation and camaraderie.
"There’s a special nip in the air that people are celebrating," observed Nishant Sinha, founder of Roastery Coffee House. This sentiment is echoed across the city. Abhishek Dutt of Soul Atrium mentioned that customers are lingering much longer over conversations. "This weather has brought a cosy, unhurried energy to the space, and it’s lovely to see people linger and simply enjoy the chill," he said.
Grant Walsh from 8th Day Café & Bakery pointed out that the demand for outdoor seating, especially in spots like the Vivekananda Park patio, has been phenomenal, keeping cafes full throughout the day. The combination of winter sun and cool air has proven to be an irresistible draw for Kolkatans looking to socialize.
As the city wraps itself in warmth, its cafes are thriving, proving that sometimes, the best business strategy is written in the chill of the winter wind.
