Banerjeeolis: A Slice of Naples (and New York!) Right Here in Kolkata
If there is one thing we Bengalis take as seriously as our adda, it’s our food. Whether it's the Sunday mutton curry or a sudden craving for something continental, the petuk (foodie) inside us never sleeps.
Recently, as I was exploring the bylanes of South Kolkata—seeking something beyond the usual café hopping scenes—I stumbled upon a name that sounded curiously familiar yet delightfully foreign: Banerjeeolis.
At first glance, you might chuckle. "Banerjee" meets "Ravioli"? Is it a pun? But let me tell you, folks, this place is no joke. If you are hunting for the best pizza in Kolkata, specifically the kind that transports you straight to the cobble-stoned streets of Italy (or perhaps a bustling corner in New York), you have to hear this story.
Here is my experience at Banerjeeolis Kolkata, a place that is redefining the pizza game in our City of Joy.
The Story: From Durgapur to the Heart of Kolkata
Before I dive into the cheesy details, let’s talk about the roots. Banerjeeolis didn’t just pop up overnight. It started as a passion project in Durgapur (yes, the Steel City!), where it became legendary for serving the "Largest Pizza in West Bengal."
The brain behind this is Chef Sagar Banerjee, a man who took his love for Italian cuisine so seriously that he trained in Florida, USA, and decided to bring that authentic, no-nonsense flavour back home.
He didn't want to serve the typical "Indianized" pizza. You know the ones—drowning in masala and paneer tikka (no offence to paneer lovers!). Sagar wanted to serve Banerjeeolis authentic Italian pizza—crisp, fresh, and massive. After conquering Durgapur, they finally opened their doors in Kalighat/Gariahat, bringing that same "Pizza with a Purpose" to us in Kolkata.
Sahil’s Note: It’s rare to see a brand expand from a district town to Kolkata, usually, it’s the other way around. That alone told me the food had to be solid.
The Ambience: Where Italy Meets Bengali Warmth
Walking into Banerjeeolis Kolkata, the first thing that hits you is the aroma—freshly baked dough and oregano, not the synthetic smell of fast-food chains.
The decor is a lovely mix of rustic Italian vibes and cosy Calcutta charm. Think brick walls, warm lighting, and corners perfect for a long adda with friends. Unlike many cramped cafes in South Kolkata, there’s a sense of space here.
Why is this place so important? Because it breaks the mould. It’s not trying to be a snobbish fine-dining Italian restaurant where you can’t pronounce the menu. It’s accessible, friendly, and yet, arguably serves the most authentic fare in the city. It’s perfect for families, college gangs, and even solo explorers like me.
The Menu: What to Eat at Banerjeeolis
Now, the main event. What makes Banerjeeolis a contender for the best pizza in Kolkata?
1. The 18-Inch Beast (The Largest Pizza in Town)
You read that right. They serve a whopping 18-inch pizza. In a city where 12-inch is considered "Large," this thing is a monster. It’s New York-style—huge slices that you have to fold to eat. It’s perfect for a group.
2. Authentic, Not "Indianized"
Their motto is strict: No Tikka, No Peri-Peri. They use imported cheeses, homemade sauces, and locally milled flour.
Recommendation: Try the Pork Pepperoni. Finding good pork pepperoni in Kolkata is a struggle, but Banerjeeolis nails it. Crisp, salty, and generous.
For Vegans: Their Margherita is pure art. It’s all about the sauce and the crust.
3. Beyond Pizza: The Sides
Do not leave without trying the Garlic Knots. They are buttery, garlicky little clouds of dough that will make you forget your diet.
Dessert: Their Tiramisu is arguably one of the best in the city. Creamy, not too sweet, with the perfect hit of coffee.
How to Reach Banerjeeolis Kolkata
For my fellow explorers, finding this gem is easy.
Location: The Kolkata outlet is situated in the Kalighat / Gariahat area. It’s tucked away enough to be peaceful but central enough to reach easily.
Landmark: Near the Southern Avenue / Lake Market area.
Google Maps: Just search for "Banerjeeolis Pizzeria Kalighat".
Is it Worth the Hype?
Look, I’ve eaten at fancy 5-star Italian restaurants and street-side stalls. Banerjeeolis sits in that sweet spot. It feels like a homegrown success story that prioritises food over gimmicks.
If you are tired of mayonnaise-laden pizzas and want to taste what a real Neapolitan or NY slice feels like, this is your spot. It’s a place where you go to eat, laugh, and eat some more.
Rating:
Food: 4.8/5
Ambience: 4.5/5
Pocket Pinch: ₹800 - ₹1200 for two (Totally worth it for the portion sizes).
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Banerjeeolis in 2026
The Size: The 18-inch pizza is an experience in itself.
The Authenticity: Genuine Italian flavours without the "Desi" twist.
The Vibe: Great music, sometimes live, and a chilled-out atmosphere.
The Pork Options: A rare find for meat lovers in Kolkata’s pizza scene.
The Story: Supporting a local Bengali entrepreneur who chased a dream to Florida and back.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Evenings (Post 6 PM) for the best vibe.
Crowd: Can get busy on weekends, so go early if you’re a big group.
Delivery: They are available on Swiggy/Zomato, but trust me, eat it fresh at the outlet.
Have you visited Banerjeeolis yet? Drop a comment below and let me know if you could finish the 18-inch pizza alone! (If you did, you are a legend).
Stay tuned to Kolkata Tales for more hidden gems. - Sahil
