Kochi, a vibrant city in Kerala, offers a rich tapestry of street food that reflects its diverse cultural heritage. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 street food destinations in Kochi, providing detailed information to guide new tourists and city visitors:
- Kaloor Stadium Food Stalls
- Location: Near Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium, Kaloor
- Description: A bustling hub for street food enthusiasts, especially during evenings. The area is lined with various stalls offering a plethora of local delicacies.
- Must-Try: Chicken popcorn from Bake Tree, Italian cheese chicken cutlet from Luv Cutlet, and momos from the Momo Stall.
- Timings: Evening hours, typically from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Average Cost: ₹50–₹150 per item.
- Highlights: Diverse food options in close proximity, making it a convenient spot for sampling multiple dishes.
- Sabu Chettan’s Thattukada
- Location: Opposite Al Taza, Kaloor
- Description: A popular thattukada (street-side eatery) known for its authentic Kerala flavors.
- Must-Try: Traditional Kerala dishes like porotta with beef curry and kappa (tapioca) with fish curry.
- Timings: Evening hours, typically from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
- Average Cost: ₹100–₹200 per person.
- Highlights: Authentic local flavors at affordable prices.
- Kayees Rahmathulla Hotel
- Location: Gujarati Road, Mattancherry
- Description: Established in 1948, this iconic eatery is renowned for its flavorful biryani.
- Must-Try: Mutton Biryani, affectionately known as “Kayikka’s Biryani.”
- Timings: 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Average Cost: ₹150–₹250 per person.
- Highlights: A historic establishment offering a taste of Kochi’s culinary heritage.
- Bharath Coffee House
- Location: Shanmugham Road, Broadway, Ernakulam
- Description: One of Kochi’s oldest restaurants, serving traditional Kerala snacks and meals since 1956.
- Must-Try: Dosas, cutlets, and traditional filter coffee.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Average Cost: ₹100–₹200 per person.
- Highlights: Nostalgic ambiance with a menu that has stood the test of time.
- Puttu Kada
- Location: Near Kaloor Bus Stand
- Description: A humble eatery specializing in ‘puttu,’ a traditional steamed rice cake.
- Must-Try: Puttu served with kadala (black chickpea) curry or banana and sugar.
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM; 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Average Cost: ₹50–₹100 per person.
- Highlights: Authentic breakfast and evening snack option popular among locals.
- Sree Muruga Cafe
- Location: Fort Kochi
- Description: A quaint cafe known for its traditional Kerala snacks and tea.
- Must-Try: Pazham pori (banana fritters) and parippu vada (lentil fritters).
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Average Cost: ₹50–₹100 per person.
- Highlights: Perfect spot for a quick snack during a Fort Kochi exploration.
- Thattu Kada at Marine Drive
- Location: Marine Drive Walkway
- Description: Evening street food stalls offering a variety of local snacks with a view of the backwaters.
- Must-Try: Dosa varieties, egg roast, and spicy chicken fry.
- Timings: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
- Average Cost: ₹50–₹150 per item.
- Highlights: Scenic views combined with delectable street food offerings.
- Tawabul Fry & Grill
- Location: Gandhi Nagar, Kochi
- Description: Known for its grilled and fried delicacies, this spot is a haven for meat lovers.
- Must-Try: Malai Tikka, Tandoori Chicken, and Peri Peri Chicken.
- Timings: 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM.
- Average Cost: ₹350 per person.
- Highlights: Extensive menu with various grill options and kathi rolls.
- Swamy’s Sweets & Snacks
- Location: Tripunithura, Kochi
- Description: A renowned spot for traditional Indian sweets and savory snacks.
- Must-Try: Mithai (Indian sweets) and various street food items.
- Timings: Opens at 9:00 AM.
- Average Cost: ₹300 for two people.
- Highlights: Authentic flavors with a wide range of options.
- Sandwich Walas
- Location: Kochi
- Description: Specializes in a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and salads, making it a favorite among the youth.
- Must-Try: Assorted sandwiches and burgers.
- Timings: Opens at 11:00 AM.
- Average Cost: ₹250 for two people.
- Highlights: Fresh ingredients with a focus on quick service.
