Tiretti Bazaar (Old Chinatown)

Tiretti Bazaar, often called Kolkata's Old Chinatown, is a historic neighbourhood in the centre of the city with a distinct Chinese character. It grew up around a market founded in the late 18th century by Edoardo Tiretta, a Venetian who bought land from the East India Company. Over time Edoardo became Edward and the name Tiretta turned into Tiretti.

The area began to take on its Chinese identity around the middle of the 19th century. Sailors working the trade route between India and China stopped in Calcutta, and many stayed on rather than sailing home, settling in and around the bazaar.

The neighbourhood is best known for its breakfast. Early in the morning the narrow lanes fill with stalls selling dumplings, noodles and other traditional Chinese and Indian-Chinese food, drawing locals and visitors alike.