Thrissur, known for its cultural heritage, is also home to a diverse culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Kerala delicacies to international cuisines. Here’s a detailed guide on the top 10 restaurants in Thrissur, perfect for tourists and visitors to explore the city’s vibrant food culture. This guide includes the cost per person, ambiance, and what to expect at each place.
1. The River Retreat (Multi-Cuisine)
- Overview:
Located near the river, The River Retreat offers a variety of cuisines, including Kerala, Indian, Chinese, and Continental. It’s a beautiful, serene setting perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal. - What to Try:
- Kerala Style Fish Curry: Fresh fish cooked in a tangy coconut-based curry.
- Grilled Chicken: Marinated and grilled to perfection.
- Tandoori Kebabs: Tender chicken and lamb kebabs.
- Ambience:
A peaceful, riverside restaurant offering scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for family dinners or romantic evenings. - Cost per Person:
₹500–₹1,200 (depending on choice of meal). - Best for:
Families, couples, and those seeking a relaxing atmosphere. - Location:
Near Kallettumkara Bridge, Thrissur.
2. Sree Radhakrishna Prasada (Vegetarian)
- Overview:
Sree Radhakrishna Prasada is a well-known spot for traditional Kerala vegetarian fare, especially famous for its Kerala Sadya (feast). This is an ideal choice for those looking to experience an authentic vegetarian Kerala meal. - What to Try:
- Kerala Sadya: A traditional feast served on a banana leaf, including rice, sambar, avial, thoran, and payasam.
- Appam and Stew: Soft appams served with a coconut-based stew.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: Steamed rice cake with black chickpeas curry.
- Ambience:
A simple, no-frills setting with a traditional feel. It’s a great place for casual family dining. - Cost per Person:
₹250–₹500 for a Sadya meal (depending on the size of the meal). - Best for:
Vegetarians and those looking for a traditional Kerala meal. - Location:
Near Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur.
3. Kalyan Restaurant (Traditional Kerala Cuisine)
- Overview:
Kalyan Restaurant specializes in authentic Kerala cuisine, offering everything from fish curry to traditional Kerala snacks. It’s one of the oldest and most beloved restaurants in Thrissur. - What to Try:
- Kerala Parotta with Beef Curry: Flaky parotta served with spicy beef curry.
- Fish Biryani: A flavorful biryani made with fresh, local fish.
- Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish cooked in a banana leaf with spices.
- Ambience:
Casual dining with a traditional Kerala ambiance, often crowded due to its popularity. - Cost per Person:
₹300–₹600 for a full meal. - Best for:
Those seeking traditional Kerala meals with great local flavors. - Location:
Near Swaraj Round, Thrissur.
4. Shivaraj Restaurant (Multi-Cuisine)
- Overview:
Shivaraj Restaurant offers a wide range of cuisines, including North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese. It is known for its consistency in quality and offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. - What to Try:
- Butter Chicken: Creamy chicken cooked with a rich tomato gravy.
- Kothu Parotta: A Kerala specialty made with parotta, vegetables, and meat.
- Fish Fry: Spicy fried fish, a local favorite.
- Ambience:
A bustling, casual restaurant popular with families and groups. It’s a spacious place with quick service. - Cost per Person:
₹400–₹800 depending on the dishes chosen. - Best for:
Those looking for variety in their meal options and good food at reasonable prices. - Location:
Near Sakthan Thampuran Palace, Thrissur.
5. The Bistro (Multi-Cuisine)
- Overview:
The Bistro is a fine dining restaurant offering a mix of Continental and Indian cuisine. It’s known for its stylish ambiance and high-quality food. - What to Try:
- Pasta Carbonara: A creamy pasta dish made with bacon and parmesan.
- Tandoori Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated with yogurt and spices.
- Vegetarian Lasagna: A flavorful lasagna made with layers of vegetables.
- Ambience:
A chic, modern setting with comfortable seating. Ideal for a special dinner or an elegant lunch. - Cost per Person:
₹600–₹1,200 depending on the meal and drinks. - Best for:
Those seeking a premium dining experience with a mix of international and Indian flavors. - Location:
Near Swaraj Round, Thrissur.
6. Prakruthi Restaurant (Vegetarian)
- Overview:
Prakruthi specializes in vegetarian Kerala cuisine, focusing on fresh, organic ingredients and healthy preparations. It’s known for its eco-friendly approach and healthy meals. - What to Try:
- Vegetarian Thali: A traditional Kerala meal with rice, sambar, moru curry, payasam, and more.
- Appam and Vegetable Stew: A light, fluffy appam with a creamy vegetable stew.
- Kappa and Meen Curry: Tapioca served with spicy fish curry.
- Ambience:
A rustic, simple setting with a focus on organic living. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful, ideal for health-conscious visitors. - Cost per Person:
₹300–₹600 for a thali meal. - Best for:
Vegetarians and those looking for healthy, organic meals. - Location:
Round North, Thrissur.
7. Hotel Gokulam Park (Multi-Cuisine)
- Overview:
Hotel Gokulam Park offers a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. The hotel’s restaurant is known for its excellent service and food quality. - What to Try:
- Vegetable Biryani: A flavorful rice dish with vegetables.
- Chinese Noodles: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and sauce.
- Paneer Butter Masala: Cottage cheese cooked in a rich tomato gravy.
- Ambience:
A relaxed and stylish restaurant offering a comfortable dining experience. - Cost per Person:
₹600–₹1,000 for a full meal. - Best for:
Those looking for a variety of options in a comfortable setting. - Location:
Near Thrissur Railway Station.
8. The BBQ Nation
- Overview:
BBQ Nation is a popular restaurant chain known for its grilled meats and buffet-style offerings. The restaurant provides an all-you-can-eat experience, with a range of options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. - What to Try:
- Grilled Chicken: Marinated and grilled to perfection.
- Tandoori Prawns: Prawns grilled with aromatic spices.
- Buffet Selection: Enjoy a variety of salads, main courses, and desserts.
- Ambience:
A casual and lively dining experience, suitable for groups and families. - Cost per Person:
₹700–₹1,200 for a buffet. - Best for:
Groups, families, and non-vegetarians who enjoy an all-you-can-eat experience. - Location:
Near Swaraj Round, Thrissur.
9. Sangeetha Restaurant (Vegetarian)
- Overview:
Sangeetha is a renowned vegetarian restaurant chain offering South Indian delicacies. It is known for its high-quality food and prompt service. - What to Try:
- Dosas: Crisp, thin pancakes served with a variety of chutneys.
- Idlis and Vadas: Steamed rice cakes and savory lentil doughnuts.
- Vegetable Biryani: Aromatic rice with vegetables and spices.
- Ambience:
Clean, simple, and family-friendly. Ideal for quick and satisfying meals. - Cost per Person:
₹200–₹400 for a meal. - Best for:
Vegetarians and those looking for traditional South Indian cuisine. - Location:
Near Swaraj Round, Thrissur.
10. Hotel Surabhi (Vegetarian)
- Overview:
Hotel Surabhi offers traditional Kerala vegetarian food at affordable prices. It’s a popular place for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy home-style meals. - What to Try:
- Kerala Sadya: A full-course traditional Kerala feast.
- Idiyappam and Egg Curry: Steamed rice noodles served with egg curry.
- Banana Chips: A Kerala snack made from fried banana slices.
- Ambience:
Simple and family-friendly, with a traditional Kerala touch. - Cost per Person:
₹200–₹400 for a meal. - Best for:
Budget travelers looking for an authentic Kerala vegetarian meal. - Location:
Near Kerala Kalamandalam, Thrissur.
Conclusion
These 10 restaurants in Thrissur offer a variety of culinary experiences, ranging from traditional Kerala dishes to international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple Kerala Sadya, grilled meat, or a buffet, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Enjoy your gastronomic journey in Thrissur!