The culinary landscape of Kolkata has a new wave of dessert sophistication sweeping through the city. So, where are you to go to find the perfect blends of global patisserie artistry with local flair? Of course, at Scarlet!
At the forefront of this movement stands Scarlet, a contemporary café and patisserie. This beautiful cafe in Kolkata is filled with innovation, elegance, and unforgettable taste. Whether you’re a pastry purist or an adventurous foodie, Scarlet’s curated collection of desserts is redefining indulgence.
Here’s a closer look at five of their most sought-after creations and what makes them stand out — both in craftsmanship and flavor.
1. Pistachio Kunafa Tin
A modern twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dessert, Scarlet’s Pistachio Kunafa Tin is a visual and sensory delight. The base is a golden, crispy nest of shredded kataifi pastry — carefully buttered and baked to perfection. Layered within is a rich, creamy pistachio filling infused with rosewater, lending an aromatic depth that feels both luxurious and comforting.
Finished with a gentle drizzle of sugar syrup and crushed roasted pistachios, the presentation is minimalist yet decadent. Served warm in a stylish tin, it offers textural contrast with every bite — crunchy exterior, creamy interior — and a flavor balance that’s hard to rival.
Why Scarlet excels: Their precision in baking the kunafa ensures it holds structure without drying out, while the pistachio blend is delicately spiced and smooth, reflecting expert technique and flavor harmony.
2. Pecan Nut Crème Brûlée Brioche
Melding French patisserie with American warmth, the Pecan Nut Crème Brûlée Brioche is a dessert that celebrates complexity. The base is a slow-fermented, butter-rich brioche, airy on the inside and caramelized on the outside. It’s then filled with a silken crème brûlée custard that oozes gently when sliced, revealing its luscious core.
Candied pecans are generously embedded on top, adding crunch and nutty depth. Just before serving, the surface is torched tableside to create the signature brûléed crust, which shatters delicately under a spoon.
Why Scarlet excels: The fusion of a classic custard with a yeast-leavened dough is notoriously difficult to execute, but Scarlet achieves perfect balance — moist brioche, crackling top, and just the right sweetness. Their use of premium dairy and nuts further elevates the experience.
3. Rich Chocolate Teacakes
Sometimes, less is more — and Scarlet’s Rich Chocolate Teacakes embody this ethos flawlessly. Small in stature but grand in flavor, these teacakes are crafted with 70% dark couverture chocolate, giving them a dense, moist crumb and deep cocoa character.
Glazed with a glossy ganache and dusted with micro-gold flakes, each piece looks like a jewel. They’re often served alongside a spiced ganache or berry compote on the side, offering diners the choice to pair or enjoy them solo.
Why Scarlet excels: Their sourcing of chocolate and mastery over tempering and baking creates a texture that melts on the tongue without being overly sweet. The presentation is refined, ideal for both personal indulgence and gifting.
4. Black Forest Cake
A reinterpretation of the classic German dessert, Scarlet’s Black Forest Cake retains the nostalgic flavors while offering a refined, deconstructed presentation. Alternating layers of rich chocolate sponge, Chantilly cream, and cherry compote are assembled with precision, each layer evenly moistened with kirsch syrup for authenticity.
Unlike traditional versions, Scarlet opts for dark cherry gel, Valrhona chocolate shards, and whipped mascarpone cream for depth and richness. The plating is artistic — often served as a dome or semi-circular slice with cherry pearls and edible florals.
Why Scarlet excels: The balance of bitter-sweet chocolate and tangy cherry is notoriously hard to maintain. Scarlet’s version is less saccharine and more flavor-forward, appealing to those who crave complexity in a classic dessert.
5. Double Chocolate Brioche
A nod to indulgent breakfast pastries, the Double Chocolate Brioche at Scarlet is the ultimate comfort dessert. Made from a slow-ferment enriched dough, the brioche is layered with dark chocolate chunks and cocoa paste, then braided and baked until golden and puffed.
Once cooled slightly, it’s brushed with a chocolate glaze and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt and chocolate pearls. Served warm with a side of vanilla bean crème anglaise, it’s the kind of pastry that can stand alone or pair with your coffee ritual.
Why Scarlet excels: Achieving a soft, pull-apart interior while maintaining chocolate integrity requires exact timing and quality ingredients. Scarlet’s commitment to process ensures this brioche is both comforting and elevated.
Why Scarlet Leads the Pack
What sets Scarlet apart is more than just aesthetic presentation or premium ingredients — it’s their philosophy of precision meets passion. Their kitchen operates like a modern atelier, where chefs blend international techniques with local insights. Ingredients are sourced responsibly, flavor profiles are tested repeatedly, and every plate is a composition of art and science.
Scarlet also understands the evolving palate of Kolkata’s dessert lovers — offering creations that are as Instagrammable as they are delicious. With ambient interiors, a thoughtful menu, and attention to detail at every stage, Scarlet is not just a café; it’s a celebration of patisserie excellence.
So the next time you’re craving a pastry that tells a story — of culture, craftsmanship, and creativity — make your way to Scarlet. Your sweet tooth will thank you.
