South Calcutta’s beloved Tangra-style Chinese restaurant Kimli has entered a fresh new chapter. After 26 years of serving generations of diners, the Hindustan Park favourite has revamped both its interiors and menu, bringing a renewed energy to its old-school charm. While the space gets a contemporary touch and the menu introduces exciting new flavours, Kimli remains rooted in the generous, comforting and flavour-forward Chinese food that has made it a neighbourhood favourite.
Today, second-generation owner Payel Bose is carrying the legacy forward. The refreshed 2,000sq ft space retains Kimli’s warm, relaxed character while adding touches inspired by China. The private dining room now features new table seating and a striking sketched feature wall depicting the lively streets of China. Another seating area gets new wall frames, subtle red accents and warmer tones, making the 56-seater restaurant feel cosier and more inviting. The private dining area can accommodate up to 20 guests, making it suited to intimate dinners, family occasions and festive gatherings.
The new menu is where the refreshed Kimli really comes alive, bringing together familiar Chinese comfort food with bolder combinations and varied textures. From tangy soups and smoky meats to fiery chicken and flavour-packed rice, the additions explore spicy, savoury, aromatic and zesty notes. t2 checked out the revamped Kimli.
The walls are covered in highly detailed, sepia-toned illustrations depicting traditional Hong Kong street scenes. These murals showcase iconic double- decker trams, historic storefront signs with traditional Chinese characters, and historic cityscapes. A central sign reads “Hong Kong Dining Lounge” in bold, paired with traditional Chinese characters representing the local transit history, making it the perfect spot for Instagram-worthy pictures while enjoying Tangra-style Chinese.
Black, polished rectangular tables are paired with rows of dark high-back dining chairs trimmed in bright red accent borders, black and white tiled floor. Oriental elements add to the whole new revamped look.
For those who like their food with some heat, the Shredded Dragon Chicken packs plenty of punch. Delicately shredded chicken is tossed in a bold, spicy sauce, creating a combination of tender meat and intense, flavourful seasoning.
Tangy Prawn Pepper Soup is a comforting start with a lively kick, bringing together succulent prawns in a peppery, tangy broth.
The BBQ Lamb brings a smoky, savoury edge to the table, with tender pieces of lamb infused with rich barbecue flavours.
“Kimli has always been about food, family and memories created around the table. The evolution of our menu and revamped space reflects our vision of bringing a fresh energy to the restaurant without losing its soul,” said Payel Bose, second-generation owner of Kimli Restaurant.
Where: 56G, Hindustan Park, Gariahat, Kolkata – 700029
When: 12:30pm to 10:30pm
Pocket pinch: ₹900 plus for two
Dining and Cooking