Viaggio Gustoso: South Kolkata's New Authentic Italian Cafe

If you are trying to find authentic Italian flavours in South Calcutta, head to Viaggio Gustoso, tucked away on the bustling Sadananda Road near Kalighat. More than just another Italian restaurant with a fancy name, this cosy neighbourhood eatery promises a delicious voyage through Italy, and its name reflects that. ‘Viaggio’ means voyage, while ‘Gustoso’ translates to tasty, setting the tone for a culinary journey worth taking.

Spread across 400sqft, with seating for 28 guests, Viaggio Gustoso brings the charm of an Italian neighbourhood cafe to the heart of South Calcutta. The intimate space is dressed in minimal decor, with vintage Italian paintings and photographs adorning its whitewashed walls. The understated interiors lend the restaurant a warm, inviting feel, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal with friends or a quiet catch-up over comforting Italian fare.

The menu follows the same uncomplicated philosophy as the space. Short, simple and centred around Italian classics, it offers a selection of pizzas from an in-house wood-fired oven, pastas, ravioli, freshly baked focaccia breads, sandwiches, classic desserts and beverages. Rather than overwhelming diners with an elaborate spread, the menu keeps things focused on familiar favourites that celebrate the comforting appeal of Italian cuisine.

From a casual lunch to an evening spent indulging in carbs and conversation, Viaggio Gustoso offers a little slice of Italy without the fuss of a grand dining destination. Its cosy setting, understated charm and straightforward menu make it a welcome addition to Calcutta’s food scene.

Whitewashed walls adorned with vintage Italian photographs, portraits and paintings, a large window that lets in plenty of natural light, and warm lighting that adds to the cosy charm of the space.

The old-style corniced ceiling adds to the vintage charm of the space, giving it the feel of a quaint neighbourhood Italian diner, complete with charming arched doors.

Pollo al Pesto Bianca has a fresh basil pesto base topped with fresh bocconcini, grilled chicken, parmesan and drizzled with balsamic vinegar. All pizzas at Viaggio Gustoso are served with a side of marinara sauce, so that no crust goes to waste.

Pollo Arrosto al Rosmarino is a herb-roasted half chicken smeared with garlic, rosemary and served with a side of seasoned potatoes.

Panzanella Toscana con Bocconcini are toasted focaccia breads made from scratch, sandwiched with fresh tomatoes, onion, basil and bocconcini cheese.

A classic, creamy Carbonara made with eggs, parmesan, cured pork and seasoned with black pepper.

Capricciosa con Prosciutto has a tomato base with prosciutto, artichoke, olives, mushrooms and mozzarella.

“Our vision was to bring authentic Italian food to Calcutta without making it an expensive affair. We want people to enjoy the flavours of Italy at pocket-friendly prices, whether they are dropping in for a quick bite or spending a leisurely evening with friends and family. Beyond the food, we also wanted to create an atmosphere that captures the charm of a traditional Italian neighbourhood diner. From the interiors and décor to the menu, every detail has been thoughtfully chosen to offer an authentic Italian experience. We want our guests to feel as though they have travelled to a little corner of Italy, right here in South Calcutta,” said Satyaki Ghosh (in picture) and Sayantan Paul, co-founders of Viaggio Gustoso.