Kannur is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history, and its street food scene is just as lively. From spicy snacks to fresh seafood, Kannur offers an array of delicious street food that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 street food destinations in Kannur, perfect for tourists looking to experience the local flavors without having to look elsewhere for information.
1. Fort Road Market
Location: Fort Road, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹50 – ₹200
Why Visit:
- Fort Road Market is a bustling place known for its street food stalls offering a variety of snacks. Whether you’re craving samosas, vada, or freshly made fruit juices, this market has it all.
What to Try:
- Samosas (fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes)
- Kochi-style Vada (crispy lentil fritters)
- Chaats (spicy, tangy street food mix)
- Fruit juices (fresh and refreshing)
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM) when the stalls are in full swing.
Secret Tip:
- Don’t miss the fresh fruit juices that are served in a variety of flavors, perfect for the warm weather.
2. Muzhappilangad Beach Road
Location: Muzhappilangad Beach, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹100 – ₹300
Why Visit:
- Known for the longest drive-in beach in India, Muzhappilangad Beach is not only scenic but also offers a fantastic selection of beachside street food. Enjoy freshly grilled seafood while watching the sunset over the Arabian Sea.
What to Try:
- Grilled Fish (often served fresh from the sea)
- Shawarma (spiced meat wrapped in pita)
- Corn on the cob (grilled and salted)
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM) to enjoy the sunset and the beach food vibe.
Secret Tip:
- Grab a grilled fish and enjoy it while walking along the beach. It’s a serene experience with fresh, local flavors.
3. Thalassery Main Road
Location: Thalassery, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹50 – ₹150
Why Visit:
- Thalassery Main Road is famous for its street food stalls that offer traditional Malabar cuisine. It’s an excellent spot for tourists who want to try Malabar biryani and other local snacks.
What to Try:
- Thalassery Biryani (flavorful rice dish with chicken or mutton)
- Kallummakkaya (mussels)
- Fried Chicken (crispy and spicy)
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM)
Secret Tip:
- Try the Thalassery Biryani paired with fried chicken for the ultimate local street food experience.
4. Payyambalam Beach
Location: Payyambalam Beach, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹50 – ₹200
Why Visit:
- A favorite among locals and tourists alike, Payyambalam Beach offers a variety of beachside snacks that will satisfy your cravings. With a view of the serene beach, it’s the perfect spot for street food lovers.
What to Try:
- Chana Chaat (spicy chickpea mix)
- Chili Bajji (fried chili fritters)
- Ice Creams (served in cones or as kulfi)
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) for the best food and sunset view.
Secret Tip:
- Pair the Chana Chaat with a cold ice cream to beat the heat after enjoying the beach.
5. Kannur Beach Road
Location: Near Kannur Beach
Cost per Person: ₹50 – ₹200
Why Visit:
- The stretch along Kannur Beach Road is lined with small food carts offering fresh seafood and local delicacies. It’s an ideal stop for those who want to enjoy a casual meal by the sea.
What to Try:
- Fish Cutlet (spiced fish patty)
- Prawn Fry (crispy prawns with a blend of spices)
- Banana Chips (crispy fried banana slices)
Best Time to Visit:
- Late afternoon to evening (4:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
Secret Tip:
- Enjoy the Fish Cutlet with a fresh coconut drink, a perfect snack after a beach day.
6. Kannur Town Market
Location: Kannur Town
Cost per Person: ₹30 – ₹100
Why Visit:
- The Kannur Town Market is where you’ll find a variety of local street food stalls. From sweets to spicy snacks, this place offers an authentic local experience for street food lovers.
What to Try:
- Pani Puri (crispy puris filled with spicy tamarind water)
- Bonda (fried snack filled with spiced potatoes)
- Sweets like Kesari (semolina dessert)
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning or early evening (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Secret Tip:
- Don’t miss the Pani Puri, which is a popular street food favorite in Kannur.
7. Ezhimala Beach
Location: Ezhimala, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹100 – ₹250
Why Visit:
- A relatively quieter spot compared to other beaches, Ezhimala Beach offers fresh seafood served by the beach. Enjoy grilled fish and local snacks while taking in the serene view.
What to Try:
- Grilled Fish
- Fish Fry
- Fresh Coconut Water
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning or evening (6:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
Secret Tip:
- The grilled fish served here is fresh and delicious, so make sure you try it while enjoying the calm surroundings.
8. Thavakkara Market
Location: Thavakkara, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹50 – ₹150
Why Visit:
- This vibrant local market is a great spot to grab a quick bite while shopping for local produce. The stalls here offer traditional Kerala snacks and local sweets.
What to Try:
- Samosas
- Dosa with Chutney
- Vada
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning (7:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for breakfast.
Secret Tip:
- Enjoy Dosa with chutney from one of the stalls for a great Kerala breakfast.
9. Kuthuparamba Market
Location: Kuthuparamba, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹50 – ₹100
Why Visit:
- Kuthuparamba Market offers a mix of both savory and sweet snacks. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something a bit more substantial, this market has something for everyone.
What to Try:
- Vegetable Pakora
- Fried Fish
- Pineapple Pieces
Best Time to Visit:
- Early evening (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Secret Tip:
- Try the fried fish with a tangy tamarind chutney for the perfect local snack.
10. Kavvayi Beach Road
Location: Kavvayi Beach, Kannur
Cost per Person: ₹100 – ₹200
Why Visit:
- A serene location near the beach, Kavvayi Beach offers a tranquil setting for enjoying a variety of local snacks. The area is known for fresh seafood and quick bites.
What to Try:
- Fish Curry with rice
- Kappa and Meen Curry (tapioca with fish curry)
- Fried Crab
Best Time to Visit:
- Late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Secret Tip:
- Make sure to try the Kappa and Meen Curry as it’s a signature Kerala dish that pairs beautifully with the beach vibe.
Conclusion
Kannur’s street food scene is diverse, offering a wide range of dishes, from spicy snacks to fresh seafood. Whether you’re wandering around the markets, relaxing by the beach, or just exploring the town, there are endless street food options to enjoy. Be sure to visit these top 10 street food destinations to experience the true flavors of Kannur.