1. Appam with Ishtu:
Begin your culinary journey in Kochi with the classic Appam and Ishtu. These lacy, fermented rice pancakes are paired with a creamy and mildly spiced coconut milk-based stew, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Best Places:
- Kayees Rahmathulla Cafe: Broadway, Kochi.
- Pai Brothers Fast Food: MG Road, Kochi.
- Dhe Puttu: Vyttila, Kochi.
Price: ₹50 to ₹150 ($0.70 to $2.10).
2. Kerala Sadya:
Indulge in the elaborate feast of Kerala Sadya, a traditional vegetarian spread. With an array of dishes like aviyal, sambar, thoran, and payasam served on a banana leaf, this culinary experience captures the essence of Kerala’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Best Places:
- Grand Hotel: MG Road, Kochi.
- Saravana Bhavan: Marine Drive, Kochi.
- Bharath Tourist Home: Ernakulam, Kochi.
Price: ₹100 to ₹300 ($1.40 to $4.20).
3. Karimeen Pollichathu:
Savor the unique flavors of Karimeen Pollichathu, a must-try seafood delight in Kochi. Pearl spot fish is marinated in a rich blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfection, creating a symphony of taste.
Best Places:
- Fort House Restaurant: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
- Oceanos Restaurant: Marine Drive, Kochi.
- The Rice Boat: Willingdon Island, Kochi.
Price: ₹200 to ₹500 ($2.80 to $7).
4. Thalassery Biryani:
Indulge in the aromatic and flavorful Thalassery Biryani, a specialty of the Malabar region. Fragrant rice, succulent meat, and a perfect blend of spices make this biryani a true culinary masterpiece.
Best Places:
- Paradise Biryani: Panampilly Nagar, Kochi.
- The Dum Biryani: Kadavanthra, Kochi.
- Cassava Restaurant: Edappally, Kochi.
Price: ₹150 to ₹400 ($2.10 to $5.60).
5. Erachi Varutharacha Curry:
Delight in the rich and spicy flavors of Erachi Varutharacha Curry, a traditional Kerala-style meat curry. The dish features succulent pieces of meat cooked in a thick, roasted coconut-based gravy, offering a hearty and aromatic experience.
Best Places:
- Fusion Bay: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
- The History Restaurant: Mattancherry, Kochi.
- Kettuvallam: Willingdon Island, Kochi.
Price: ₹150 to ₹400 ($2.10 to $5.60).
6. Puttu and Kadala Curry:
Explore the wholesome combination of Puttu and Kadala Curry, a popular breakfast choice in Kochi. Steamed cylinders of ground rice (puttu) are paired with a flavorful black chickpea curry, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Best Places:
- Indian Coffee House: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
- Kerala Cafe: MG Road, Kochi.
- Vasco Da Gama Square: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
Price: ₹50 to ₹150 ($0.70 to $2.10).
7. Malabar Parotta with Curry:
Savor the flaky and layered Malabar Parotta with Curry, a beloved combination in Kochi. The soft, unleavened bread is paired with a spicy and aromatic curry, creating a match made in culinary heaven.
Best Places:
- Paragon Restaurant: MG Road, Kochi.
- Kayees Biryani: Panampilly Nagar, Kochi.
- Fort House Restaurant: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
Price: ₹80 to ₹200 ($1.10 to $2.80).
8. Kappa and Meen Curry:
Delight in the unique pairing of Kappa (tapioca) and Meen Curry (fish curry), a traditional Kerala delicacy. The starchy goodness of tapioca complements the tangy and spicy fish curry, offering a delightful contrast of flavors.
Best Places:
- Grand Pavilion: Marine Drive, Kochi.
- Oceanos Restaurant: Marine Drive, Kochi.
- Malabar Diaries: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
Price: ₹80 to ₹200 ($1.10 to $2.80).
9. Chemmeen Moilee:
Experience the subtle and coconut-infused flavors of Chemmeen Moilee, a delectable prawn curry. The prawns are cooked in a coconut milk-based sauce, creating a mild and aromatic dish that showcases Kochi’s coastal culinary excellence.
Best Places:
- Dal Roti: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
- Malabar Diaries: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
- The Rice Boat: Willingdon Island, Kochi.
Price: ₹200 to ₹500 ($2.80 to $7).
10. Pazham Pori:
Conclude your gastronomic adventure with the sweet and crispy Pazham Pori. These banana fritters are a popular snack in Kochi, offering a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Best Places:
- Indian Coffee House: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
- Vasco Da Gama Square: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
- Dal Roti: Fort Kochi, Kochi.
Price: ₹20 to ₹50 ($0.30 to $0.70).