Sidewalk Feasts: Mohammadpur’s Street Food Delights
In every corner of the city, each street boasts its own special culinary tale. Whether you stroll through the winding lanes of Old Dhaka, soak in the bustling atmosphere of Taltola or Banani 11, or venture to Uttara, each locale has its distinct flavors waiting to be savored. Every food experience surpasses the last. It offers not only delicious warmth but also a vibrant ambiance that promises a memorable culinary adventure.
Mohammadpur is like stepping into another realm, one where quaint standalone houses from the 1960s are hidden among green trees and shrubbery that have resisted development. Beautiful mosques and churches radiate tranquillity, while old school structures provide liveliness to the streets. You’ll see tall trees producing relaxing shadows as you walk around the pathways. Large parks come alive with the happy laughter of youngsters racing on their bicycles or celebrating a winning goal in a football game. Teenagers strike a selfie pose while proudly exhibiting their cricket bats. Pet owners enjoy leisurely stroll across the neighborhoods with their animal companion.
Despite the chaotic traffic in the narrow lanes and bylanes, with cars honking, rickshaw bells clanging, and pedestrians navigating in all directions, evenings in roads like Salimullah, Taj Mahal, and Town Hall witness a different kind of bustling activity. The sidewalks of Mohammadpur come alive with a tantalizing array of street food, turning every footpath into a culinary spectacle.
The air is filled with tantalizing scents—kebabs sizzling on the grill, the aroma of freshly brewed tea, and the steam rising from momos. It seems like everyone is either enjoying their meal right on the street or grabbing some takeaway.
The street food scene here is incredibly diverse; it’s not limited to just jhalmuri and fuchka (although the regular fuchka here comes with a range of flavored tamarind sauces). You’ll find a wide range of options, including soups, kebabs, kulfi, dosa, chaats, and raj kachoris. Whether it’s a weekday or the weekend, the streets of Salimullah, Tajmahal, and Town Hall are bustling with activity. From egg paratha rolls to royal Mughlai dishes, and haleems with an extra kick of garam masala, you name it, and you’ll find it right there on the sidewalks.
In Mohammadpur, the streets come alive with a vibrant food scene. You’ll spot women parking their scooties and enjoying a hot cup of tea or a refreshing bowl of soup while engaging in lively conversations about everything under the sun. Friends often grab takeaways to savor their food in front of the television, young professionals, older couples, and families all come together to relish the diverse street food offerings that Mohammadpur has in store.
One hidden gem you must try is a bowl of piping hot corn soup, featuring tender bone-in chicken pieces floating amidst papaya, carrots, and beans. It’s an unusual twist on traditional corn soup, but one spoonful will transport you to culinary bliss. A drizzle of the accompanying chili-vinegar condiment takes it to heavenly heights. Surprisingly, this delectable soup can be found in a humble, tiny shop nestled on the crowded footpath of Salimullah Road in Mohammadpur.
And when you think of Mohammadpur, it’s hard not to associate it with mouthwatering kebabs and chaaps. Their succulent, tender beef sheek kebabs are arguably the best that Dhaka city has to offer. A bite into these soft, puffed-up luchi bread with a side of brain kebab or beef chaap is all you need to forget the fatigue of your day.
At the roadside stalls, you’ll find a wide variety of gourmet teas, ranging from chocolate tandoori to pistachio flavors. What makes these teas even more special are the red-hot terracotta cups that are heated on fire tandoors, adding an extra kick to your tea experience. If you’re looking for something to spice up your visit to the bustling streets, the paanwala with his colorful condiments can prepare a fiery paan that will surely add an exciting twist to your day.
What makes Mohammadpur’s street food truly special is the delightful experience of savoring your food while sitting on the sidewalk, shaded by towering trees, while the city bustles around you. Unlike many other places where you’re confined to indoor seating at restaurants, here you can easily find a cozy spot to sit or park and relish your meal. The rustic charm of the open-air tin sheds and wooden benches adds a unique thrill to your culinary adventure. You can leisurely enjoy your haleem or momo without a worry, all while gazing at the neighboring food stalls, already planning your next delicious feast.