A Food Lover’s Guide to the Best Restaurants in Kerala!
Kerala is not just famous for its perfect beaches, fresh tea gardens, and peaceful nature.. It is also a food heaven. Kerala is also known as the Spice Capital of India, serves a mouthwatering mixture of seafood, curries, appams, and crispy snacks that are all made with a lot of coconut and spices. So what is the best way to experience the variety of food? Enter in a cozy famous restaurant or in a cafe, these can be simple BEACHSIDE cottages/huts or big dining halls with a ROYAL feel!!
This is your detailed guide to Kerala’s top eateries that are full of culture, flavor, and you definitely have unforgettable memories here!
1. Paragon Restaurant, Kozhikode
If Kerala had a food crown Paragon would be one of its shining stars because this restaurant is one of the best restaurants in kerala. This restaurant Started in 1939 and they have been serving delicious Malabar food for more than 80 years. It is loved by locals, tourists, & even celebrities who come here for the genuine taste of Kerala. Paragon is known for its quality, traditional recipes, & friendly service this makes every meal special.
Must-try dishes
- Malabar Chicken Biryani – fragrant, lightly spiced, and coated with flavors.
- Fish Mango Curry – tangy, coconut based gravy with the latest catch.
- Erachi Pathiri – soft layered bread stuffed with spiced meat.
Vibe – It’ a lively dining hall busy with locals, travelers, & food enthusiasts.
2. Grand Pavilion, Kochi
This is one of the kochi’s most well liked restaurant. Grand Pavilion is inside the recognizable Grand Hotel and is famed for blending traditional Kerala cuisine with modern presentation. Every dish is a visualy & culinary delighted here & where traditional flavors are combined with a elegance. The restaurant offers a taste of Kerala’s seaside charm in every bite & is known for its fresh seafood & genuine spices. Grand Pavilion promises a memorable dining experience with a touch of luxury either you’re a local foodie or a visitor.
Must-try dishes
- Karimeen Pollichathu – Pearl spot fish marinated with spices, wrapped in banana leaves & grilled to perfection.
- Syrian Beef Fry – Spicy, fiery & best enjoyed with Kerala parotta.
- Prawns Ularthiyathu – Stir fried prawns tossed in a hot spice mix.
Vibe – Elegant yet warm, perfect for family dinners or business lunches.
3. Dal Roti, Fort Kochi
Kerala is well known for its regional food but Dal Roti offers Fort Kochi a tasty alternative with strong North Indian flavors. Offering a taste of North India in the center of Kerala. The restaurant is famous for its freshly made breads, flavorful rolls, and curries. Anyone searching for casual meals, comfort food or a comfortable setting to chill out with loved ones will love this place. The food is prepared with care to capture genuine northern flavors and the menu is simple but satisfying.
Must-try dishes
- Rumali Roti with Butter Chicken – soft, thin bread paired with creamy chicken curry.
- Rolls stuffed with kebabs & tangy chutney – perfect for a quick and flavorful bite.
- Chole Bhature – classic comfort food
Vibe – Quirky & colorful interiors with a homely, relaxed feel.
4. Fusion Bay, Fort Kochi
For the seafood lovers looking for something different Fusion Bay is a must visit in Fort Kochi. The restaurant combines Kerala’s fresh coastal flavors with creative international twists making each dish exciting & memorable. From vintage preparations to innovative seafood dishes Fusion Bay offers a menu that excites & delights the palate. It’s also known for its friendly service & relaxing ambiance, making it ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.
Must-try dishes
- Squid Pepper Fry – spicy, perfectly cooked squid with a peppery kick.
- Seafood Pasta with Kerala spices – a fusion of Italian & Kerala flavors.
- Coconut Prawn Curry with Appam – creamy, flavorful, & authentically Kerala.
Vibe – Cozy, candle lit, & perfect for romantic evenings.
5. Saravana Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram
If your looking for tasty & healthy vegetarian meals in Kerala you can choose Saravana Bhavan one of the most famous restaurants in kerala. This restaurant is popular by both locals and tourists seeking out vegetarian cuisine because of its genuine flavors, reliability, & speedy service. The menu has a large selection of traditional South Indian dishes that are always satisfying even if you’re looking for a breakfast or a light evening snack. Their famous filter coffee is the perfect way to cap off your meal.
Must-try dishes
- Masala Dosa with coconut chutney & sambar – crispy, flavorful, & filling.
- Mini Tiffin – A delightful combo of dosa, idli, vada, & pongal.
- Filter Coffee – strong, aromatic, & a true South Indian classic.
Vibe – Simple, clean, & always buzzing with happy diners.
6. Kashi Art Cafe, Fort Kochi
Kashi Art cafe is not just a cafe it’s a creative space where art & food come together. This cafe is located in the heart of Fort Kochi this charming spot is perfect for a slow breakfast, a relaxing coffee break, or simply soaking in the artistic vibes. The walls are decorated with local artwork this gives the cafe a unique and exciting atmosphere. The cafe is favorite among travelers who love cozy corners, fresh flavors, & a touch of culture with their meals.
Must-try dishes
- Banana Pancakes with honey – sweet, soft, & comforting.
- Fresh juice blends – refreshing & healthy.
- Chicken sandwiches with a Kerala-style twist – light & flavorful.
Vibe: Artistic, laid-back, and completely Instagram-worthy.
7. Villa Maya, Thiruvananthapuram
Step into the charm of the past at Villa Maya this is a beautiful restaurant set in an 18th century Dutch manor. This award winning dining spot combines descent elegance with gourmet Kerala cuisine and this ctreats an experience that feels truly royal. From the architecture and to the ambiance everything here shows luxury & tradition. The menu features authentic dishes prepared with the finest ingredients and makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
Must-try dishes
- Alleppey Fish Curry – tangy & flavorful with raw mango & coconut milk.
- Kozhi Varutharachathu – a rich chicken curry cooked with roasted coconut.
- Tender Coconut Pudding – a delicate, refreshing dessert.
Vibe – Romantic, traditional and absolutely luxurious.
8. Rahmath Hotel, Kozhikode
Rahmath Hotel is a very much famous spot in Kozhikode that proves great food doesn’t need fancy decor. This small no frills restaurant has a loyal fan base for one reason its mouthwatering biryani. Every plate is filled with authentic Malabar flavors that makes it a must visit for anyone who loves traditional Kerala biryani. Despite its simple setup the taste & aroma keep people coming back for more even if it means waiting in line.
Must-try dishes
- Kozhikode Chicken Biryani – sweet, flavorful, & perfectly cooked.
- Mutton Curry with Pathiri – A Malabar combination
- Sweet Lime Soda – A perfect refreshing drink with your meal.
Vibe: Busy, aromatic, & absolutely worth the wait!
9. Ginger House, Kochi
This house is inside an antique shop in Jew Town. Ginger House offers a dining experience like no other. This is set by the waterfront and it’s unique spot is perfect for those who love slow dining, beautiful views, & a touch of art with their meal. The ambiance is calm & fascinating with the antique pieces adding character to the space. It is an ideal place to relax enjoy authentic Kerala flavors, and take in the beauty of the backwaters.
Must-try dishes
- Ginger Ice Cream – an unexpected but delightful treat.
- Kerala-style Prawn Curry – rich, spicy, and bursting with coastal flavors.
- Pepper Chicken Roast – perfectly spiced and full of aroma.
Vibe – Artistic, calm, and offering a stunning view of the backwaters.
10. Indian Coffee House – The Old-World Charm
This is an iconic aspect of Kerala’s culinary culture. Indian Coffee House is more than just a cafe. This cooperative run establishments have an antique charm that transports you back in time. It is a favorite for quick bites & lengthy conversations because of its flavorful yet simple dishes & reasonable prices. It is a must visit for people who enjoy old vibes because of the staff’s traditional uniforms & some of the establishment’s of old spiral staircases which contribute to its nostalgic feel.
Must-try dishes
- Egg Roast with Kerala Parotta – a perfect merge of spice & softness.
- Vegetable Cutlet with Beetroot Stuffing – crispy outside, flavorful inside.
- Coffee served the old-school way – strong, aromatic, & satisfying.
Vibe – Nostalgic, simple, & easy on the pocket.
Tips for Dining in Kerala
- A Place for seafood lovers – Always request the day’s pick up which is typically the freshest & tastiest.
- Coconut rules – You can find coconut in nearly everything from chutneys to the curries.
- Spice alert – Don’t be anxious to ask for gentle versions of Kerala cuisine because it can be quite spicy.
- Experience Sadhya – Try the luxurious vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf if you go during Onam or other special occasions.
Conclusion
Kerala’s restaurants are more than just eateries, they’re gateways to centuries old traditions, spice routes, and a culture that loves to feed its guests like family. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a colonial café, savoring biryani in a bustling Kozhikode joint, or enjoying fresh seafood by the beach, every meal in Kerala tells a story.
So, next time you’re in God’s Own Country, come hungry – and leave with a heart (and belly) full of memories.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which is the number one restaurant in Kerala, India?
A:
Paragon Restaurant in Kozhikode is often called the number one restaurant in Kerala. It is famous for its Malabar biryani and authentic Kerala food, attracting locals, tourists, and even celebrities.
Q: What are the top 20 restaurants in Kerala?
A:
Here’s a list of some of the best restaurants in Kerala:
- Paragon Restaurant, Kozhikode
- Grand Pavilion, Kochi
- Villa Maya, Thiruvananthapuram
- Rahmath Hotel, Kozhikode
- Kashi Art Café, Fort Kochi
- Ginger House, Kochi
- Dal Roti, Fort Kochi
- Fusion Bay, Fort Kochi
- Saravana Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram
- Indian Coffee House (across Kerala)
- Fort House Restaurant, Kochi
- Thaff Restaurant, Alappuzha
- Cassia, Munnar
- Hotel Ariya Nivaas, Trivandrum
- Le Meridien (5-star dining in Kochi)
- The Rice Boat, Kochi
- Sky Grill Lounge Bar & Restaurant, Kochi
- The Oriental Kitchen (Japanese restaurant in Kerala)
- Café Catamaran, Varkala
- The Lighthouse Restaurant, Kovalam
Q: Who is the richest restaurant in Kerala, India?
A:
The most luxurious and expensive restaurants in Kerala are found in 5-star hotels like Villa Maya in Thiruvananthapuram and The Rice Boat in Kochi. These restaurants offer fine dining, royal interiors, and premium dishes.
Q: Which is the number one food in Kerala?
A:
The most famous food in Kerala is Kerala Sadya, a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. Other popular dishes include Malabar Biryani, Appam with Stew, Karimeen Pollichathu, and Kerala Parotta with Beef Fry.
Q: Who is the most expensive restaurant in Kerala?
A:
Villa Maya in Thiruvananthapuram is considered the most expensive restaurant in Kerala because of its royal dining experience heritage ambiance, & gourmet Kerala dishes.
Q: What is the highes rated restaurant in Kerala, India?
A:
Paragon Restaurant in Kozhikode and Villa Maya in Thiruvananthapuram often rank as the highest-rated restaurants in Kerala on food review platforms.
Q: What is the only 7star restaurant in Kerala?
A:
There is no official 7 star restaurant in Kerala as 7star ratings are generally unofficial worldwide. But still luxury dining options like Villa Maya & top 5 star restaurants in Kochi & Trivandrum give a similar premium experience.
Q: What is the oldest restaurant in Kerala, India?
A:
Indian Coffee House which started decades ago is one of the oldest restaurant chains in Kerala and is known for its nostalgic charm & simple pocket friendly menu.