Sylhet's cuisine is distinctive within Bangladesh — milder, more sour, and with a particular love of fish (especially the river fish boal and chital) and the small fermented limes called satkora. The expatriate connection to London means that "Indian" restaurants in Britain owe much of their character to Sylheti cooks.
Panshi Restaurant — A legendary local eatery on Jallarpar Road, famous for its boal fish curry, chicken roast, and a wide variety of bhortas (mashed vegetable dips). Always packed at lunchtime; arrive early or expect to wait. Cheap and excellent.
Pansi Restaurant (separate establishment) — Another classic on the same street with similar food and similar queues; locals argue endlessly about which is better.
Woondaal and Buffet Park — Modern restaurants near Zindabazar with Chinese, Thai, and continental menus aimed at the city's middle class. Cleaner and air-conditioned, less authentic.
Tea — The Nilkantha Tea Cabin in Srimangal (the famous seven-colour tea) is worth a day trip in itself.