You think backwaters, beaches, house boats and Kerala Ayurvedic spa; we say appam, puttu, Karimeen Pollicahthu, seafood, biryani and the divine Sadya! Salivating already?
Well then get ready for a joy ride down the gourmet’s lane of this southern delight!
Their rich cuisine moulded over the ages through a delectable blend of Malabari, French, Brit and Arabian influences has given rise to the most unique and lip smacking coastal flavours.
Welcome to God’s Own Country, Kerala!
Eating Out in Kerala
The restaurant culture here is fairly modern and has only recently thrived in. The older generation is sceptical about the idea of restaurants; in fact they find it rather confusing and sad. “Why would one go out and eat when delicious food can be prepared at home?”
Consequently, restaurants mostly to cater the visitors and they are often attached to hotels. Also, mostly the good independent restaurants are concentrated in the major cities or tourist hubs like; Trivandrum, Kochi, Kovalam and Calicut.
Kerala Food Paradises
Almost all Mallu dishes are prepared in coconut and various spices giving a sharp pungency in the flavour that is further heightened with a hint of tamarind. The use of coconut gives richness to the dishes and also absorbs the tongue teasing hot flavours.
Being a coastal state, sea food is also found in abundance, which is cooked in various different styles. So, let’s find out where you ought to head for the local favourites in Kerala:
1. Shala Restaurant
Literally, Ma ke haath ka khaana! The very USP of this place is home cooked food by the local housewives. So, you can expect delicious home cooked food in a lovely set up. It’s a small place and it shouldn’t come as a surprise if you see a long queue waiting outside to get a table here.
Speciality: Malabar prawn curry, kingfish steak, and the vegetarian special (which changes daily)
Location: Peter Celli Street, Fort Kochi, Kochi
Ratings / Reviews on Zomato
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2. Rahmathullah Hotel
Don’t go by the looks of this little place because if you want to have the best biryani in Kerala you’ll have to bear with it! Kayee’s Rahmathullah Hotel has been serving since 1948 and everyday people from all across line up here to have a taste of their delectable biryani.
Speciality: Biryani, Fridays you get fish Biryani and on Tuesdays, prawn. On all the other days chicken and mutton is available.
Location: Aanavaadal, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, Kochi
Ratings: 5 star
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
3. Kethal’s Chicken
Forget KFC, its KCF or Kethal’s Chicken Fry that you must try! Operating since 1949, this is an amazing place that’s been serving Kerala’s favourite fried chicken.
Speciality: Chapppathi and chicken fry with lime juice sprinkled on it
Location: Rahmaniya Lane, Chalai Bazar,Trivandrum
Ratings: 4 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
4. Rapsy Restaurant
While on a backpack trip with a tight budget, Rapsy Restaurant is your answer to delicious food at cheap rates. Prices for Rapsy’s famous paratha or biryani starts at just Rs. 50!
Speciality: Spanish omelette, Israeli shakshuka (eggs with tomatoes and spices) and Mexican salsa.
Location: Main Bazaar, Munnar
Ratings: 4 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
5. Grand Pavilion
The Grand Pavilion is one of the oldest and most popular eatery in Kochi. If you can get past the crowd and find yourself a table in here, you are in for a gourmet’s delight.
Speciality: Syrian food, the Karimeen Pollichathu (fried pear spot fish), Seafood, Biriyani, and authentic Keralan dishes
Location: Ernakulam, Kochi
Ratings: 5 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
Suggested Read: 10 Romantic Beaches In Kerala You Must Visit For A Soulful Vacay!
6. Menorah
The nearby beach adorned with the huge Chinese fishing nets ensures a steady supply of fresh fishes and other sea food at Menorah. No wonder they serve the best sea food in town!
Speciality: Jewish food and sea food
Location: Koder House, Fort Cochin, Kochi
Ratings: 3.5 stars
Ratings / Reviews on Zomato
7. Hotel Annapoorna
All the vegans out there may rejoice! Hotel Annapoorna is a pure veg restaurant serving the best Mallu breakfast and other traditional food.
Speciality: Puttu, Masala Dosa, Idli (all veggie favourites, just name it)
Location: Perumbavoor, Kerala
Ratings: 4.5 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
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8. Dal Roti
Are you missing your tandoori chicken, roti and dal makhni? Well, if you want a break from the coconutty, spicy and tangy local flavours of Kerala, step in to Dal Roti.
Speciality: North Indian food, Kathi rolls
Location: Fort Kochi, Kochi
Ratings: 4 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
Cafes, Shacks and a Continental Breakfast
Oh, don’t you worry; you won’t be deprived of a fine Continental meal here in Kerala. The fact that it’s a diverse state with a variety of international influences can be clearly seen in their food.
Let’s look at some of the best places for continental food in Kerala:
9. Beatles Restaurant
Just like the name, the place is equally amazing. Overlooking the breathtaking Lighthouse beach, this restaurant invites a huge number of tourists who come here for laid back time out. The tiger prawns served here are to die for!
Speciality: Burgers, Seafood and continental breakfast
Location: Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
Ratings: 4 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
Suggested Read: 10 Romantic Beaches In Kerala You Must Visit For A Soulful Vacay!
10. Indian Coffee House
A flamboyant, spirally red brick tower, in the central station road of Trivandrum attracts flocks from all corners of the town. It’s the oldest and the biggest chain of restaurant in all of Kerala- The Indian Coffee House. A refreshing cup of filter coffee with a side of dosa or idli is just the way to begin the day in Trivandrum!
Speciality: Coffee and snacks
Location: Central Station Road, Trivandrum
Ratings: 4 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
11. Kashi Art Café
Food or no food, Kashi Art Café is a must visit in Kochi. The casual vibe and the artsy setting of the place has turned it into an attraction in itself. However, the food here is also terrific!
Speciality: Western breakfast and coffee
Location: Fort Kochi, Kochi
Ratings: 4.5 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
12. Le Sante Café
Come here to hog on the best burgers in the town! Located in the heart of Kozhikkode town, Le Sante Café is awesome for hangout and a quick bite.
Speciality: Burgers, Waffles, ice-creams and desserts
Location: NIT Mukkam Road, Kozhikode
Ratings: 4.5 stars
Ratings / Reviews on Facebook
13. German Bakery (Waves)
The most popular hangout in town, the German Bakery has the best breakfast menu. You can spend hours on the on an airy, sunburnt-orange balcony sipping coffee and nibbling on their delectable food.
Speciality: Curries, seafood, tofu and pizzas
Location: Lighthouse Beach, Kovalam
Ratings: 3.5 stars
Ratings / Reviews on TripAdvisor
So, the next time or even when it’s your first time in Kerala, make sure to fill your tummy with the amazing delicacies of this beautiful place. You will not be disappointed!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kerala Food Paradise
What is the famous food of Kerala?
The famous as well as staple food in the Indian state of Kerala is considered to be that which contains ingredients like coconut, tapioca, rice, cloves, black pepper, ginger, and cinnamon. Various types of seafood is also considered to be the famous food in Kerala like mussels, prawns, crabs, fish, and more.
What is the famous sweet in Kerala?
Pazham Pori is considered to be one of the best sweets in Kerala. This sweet can be seen in various Malyali homes and is often taken during the tea-time.
What is Kerala halwa made of?
Kerala halwa is also counted amongst the best sweets in Kerala. The traditional sweet dish of South India is prepared using jaggery, rice flour, and ghee. Even though the recipe is quite simple but the time taken for preparation is considerably long.
Why is Kerala special?
Kerala is officially considered as one of the ten paradises of the world as per National Geographic Traveler. One of the main reasons behind it is ecotourism as well as awe-striking backwaters. Apart from the views, the traditions and food culture of Kerala is worth witnessing or experiencing.
What can I buy in Kerala?
Some of the best things that you can buy while exploring the markets of Kerala are – aromatic oil, jewelry, handicrafts, coconut products, banana chips, Aranmula Kannadi, Kathakali masks, sarees, etc. Shopping in Kerala can be quite fun if you get your hands on these things!
Which fruit is famous in Kerala?
The most famous fruit in the Indian state of Kerala is known to be the Jackfruit. Apart from that, bananas and small sweet bananas are considered to be quite famous.
How many airports are there in Kerala?
There are 4 international airports in Kerala and it is the first state in India to have 4 international airports. These airports can be found in the cities of Kozhikode, Kannur, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kochi.
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