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Kolkata Restaurants See Puja Shopping Boom
4 Oct
Summary
- Restaurant footfall increased by 25% over the weekend.
- Festive season shopping crowds are expected to swell.
- Restaurants are increasing staff and security for the rush.
Footfall across Kolkata's bars and restaurants saw a substantial increase over the weekend, fueled by a surge in puja shoppers and the India-Brazil match. Hotel and Restaurants' Association of Eastern India (HRAEI) president Sudesh Poddar reported a 25% jump in restaurant attendance.
This surge is expected to continue for the next three weekends, potentially seeing a 5%-10% higher attendance compared to the pre-Puja period of 2025. Poddar noted that the longer build-up to Durga Puja, improved weather, and growing shopping crowds contribute to this trend.
Establishments like Mocambo and Peter Cat are enhancing customer service by employing additional security guards and kitchen staff. Owners of popular outlets such as Oudh 1590 and Chapter 2 confirmed full houses and significant waiting crowds, indicating a strong start to the festive dining season.