We all have that one favorite sweet or dessert that brightens our mood just by thinking about it. For me, that sweet love story began with Rasmalai, a love that deepened during my unforgettable trip to Kolkata—a journey that led me to discover even more delightful treats.

The First Taste of Heaven: My Rasmalai Journey Begins

My affair with Rasmalai started when I was in the 5th grade, at Gupta Bhavan on Pallavaram GST Road. At that time, I didn’t care about its origins or how it was made; I only knew that it was pure amirtham (heavenly). The delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the rich, creamy flavor made Rasmalai the most delicious dessert in the world to me. However, this love took a new turn two years ago.

A Sweet Discovery in Kolkata: Bhikharam Chandmal

During my trip to Kolkata two years ago, we dedicated our last day to shopping. My brother and I wanted to bring something special back home, especially for our mom, who couldn’t join us due to her spinal surgery. We stayed at a modest mansion near the Howrah railway station—a place that, unfortunately, came with the persistent scent of the nearby fish market.

With no particular destination in mind, my brother and I started walking aimlessly, letting our feet guide us. After about a 10-minute walk, we stumbled upon Bhikharam Chandmal—a name I will never forget. My love for Rasmalai evolved that day as I was introduced to the world of Bengali sweets.

The Ultimate Bengali Sweet Experience

Bhikharam Chandmal. I will never forget that name. Never. My love for Rasmalai took an evolution. Now, I am a pure Bengali sweet fan. That shop is something that I have never seen in Tamil Nadu. I was starving and tired when we reached there. My brother, went through a lot because of me that day. I literally tried all the variety of Cham Cham, Pasta, Rasagulla and more. You name it, they have it… everything. From sweets, chaat items to ice creams. That place is Heaven. If you ever plan on going to Kolkata. Please go there. I really want you guys to try it. So, Cham cham is a tasty and softer version of Rasmalai. The shop offered a variety of flavors, including chocolate, malai, and mango—each one better than the last. You can easily find that place it’s mostly crowded with tourists more than locals.

Bringing Kolkata Home: The Search for Cham Cham in Chennai

After that trip, I had this longingness for almost a year. I searched for Bengali sweet shops searching for cham cham in and around Chennai. Finally, I destined to find Shree Mithai. It’s on the way to Besant Nagar Beach and Chetpet. You should definitely go there.

Shree Mithai offers everything a sweet lover could want, from various Bengali sweets to chaat, pizza rolls, and unique fusion foods. It’s the kind of place where you fall in love with every bite, and you’ll find yourself returning again and again for those irresistible flavors.

Must-Visit Sweet Spots: Locations You Can’t Miss

Whether you’re in Kolkata or Chennai, these sweet shops are not to be missed:

• Bhikharam Chandmal, Kolkata: Located near Howrah railway station, this shop is a favorite among tourists. Indulge in a variety of Bengali sweets, including Cham Cham in chocolate, malai, and mango flavors.
• Shree Mithai, Chennai: Found in Nungambakkam and Chetpet, Shree Mithai is a one-stop shop for all your sweet cravings, offering everything from Bengali delicacies to chaat and fusion foods.

(Note: I apologize for not having pictures of the Kolkata sweet shop—I was too busy enjoying the sweets!)

Share Your Sweet Experiences

Have you discovered any Bengali sweet shops that you think are better than these? Let me know in the comments! I’m always on the lookout for new places to satisfy my sweet tooth.

Below I have shared Bhikharam Chandmal(Kolkata) and Shree Mithai location(Chennai).