If you’re visiting Thiruvananthapuram, make sure to indulge in its rich culinary scene, from authentic Kerala dishes to international flavors. This guide provides detailed information about the best restaurants, their locations, special dishes, price range, and timings, ensuring you don’t need to look elsewhere.
1. Villa Maya
- Best For: Traditional Kerala Cuisine in a Heritage Setting
- Location: Airport Road, Enjakkal, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Meen Pollichathu (Banana Leaf-Wrapped Fish), Prawn Moilee, Appam with Stew, Elaneer Payasam
- Price Range: ₹800 – ₹1500 per person
- Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Why Visit? Set in a restored 18th-century Dutch manor, Villa Maya offers a royal dining experience with traditional Kerala and international fusion dishes.
2. Zam Zam Restaurant
- Best For: Arabian & North Indian Cuisine
- Location: Near Palayam, Opposite AKG Centre, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Chicken Shawarma, Tandoori Chicken, Biriyani, Falooda
- Price Range: ₹300 – ₹600 per person
- Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Why Visit? A local favorite known for its juicy grilled dishes, biriyanis, and quick service at affordable prices.
3. Mother’s Veg Plaza
- Best For: Authentic Kerala Vegetarian Sadya
- Location: Bakery Junction, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Kerala Sadya (Banana Leaf Meal), Avial, Puttu & Kadala Curry
- Price Range: ₹200 – ₹400 per person
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Why Visit? If you want to taste a traditional Kerala feast, this is the best vegetarian restaurant in the city.
4. Paragon Restaurant
- Best For: Malabar & Seafood Delicacies
- Location: Lulu Mall, Akkulam, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Malabar Chicken Biriyani, Crab Roast, Kozhi Nirachathu (Stuffed Chicken)
- Price Range: ₹500 – ₹1000 per person
- Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Why Visit? A legendary brand from Kerala, Paragon is a must-visit for seafood lovers and Malabar cuisine enthusiasts.
5. Curry Chatty
- Best For: Kerala & Continental Fusion
- Location: Kuravankonam, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Syrian Beef Fry, Squid Roast, Biryani, Butter Garlic Prawns
- Price Range: ₹500 – ₹900 per person
- Timings: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Why Visit? A cozy and rustic ambiance makes it a perfect spot for dinner with Kerala-style seafood.
6. The Supreme Upper Crust
- Best For: Continental & Italian Dishes
- Location: Vellayambalam, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: BBQ Chicken Pizza, Grilled Steak, Pasta Alfredo
- Price Range: ₹500 – ₹1000 per person
- Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Why Visit? A popular hangout spot offering international flavors with top-notch ambiance.
7. Buraq’s Laadhiidh
- Best For: Mughlai & North Indian Cuisine
- Location: Near Technopark, Kazhakootam, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Mutton Rogan Josh, Butter Chicken, Lucknowi Biryani
- Price Range: ₹400 – ₹800 per person
- Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Why Visit? A paradise for meat lovers, serving rich Mughlai and North Indian dishes.
8. Aryaas Park
- Best For: South Indian Breakfast
- Location: Opposite Railway Station, Thampanoor
- Specialties: Ghee Roast Dosa, Rava Idli, Pongal, Filter Coffee
- Price Range: ₹150 – ₹300 per person
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Why Visit? The best place for a quick, delicious South Indian breakfast.
9. Thakkaaram
- Best For: Kerala Street Food with a Modern Twist
- Location: Kowdiar, Thiruvananthapuram
- Specialties: Kappa Biryani, Beef Fry, Pothichoru (Meals wrapped in Banana Leaves)
- Price Range: ₹300 – ₹700 per person
- Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Why Visit? A trendy restaurant offering authentic street food flavors in a contemporary setting.
10. Indian Coffee House (Classic Experience)
- Best For: Budget-Friendly Local Dining
- Location: Near Railway Station, Thampanoor
- Specialties: Masala Dosa, Omelette, Coffee
- Price Range: ₹100 – ₹300 per person
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Why Visit? A heritage café known for its old-school ambiance and affordable South Indian meals.
Final Recommendations Based on Interest
| Interest | Best Restaurant Choice |
|---|---|
| Authentic Kerala Cuisine | Villa Maya, Mother’s Veg Plaza, Paragon |
| Best Kerala Sadya (Banana Leaf Meal) | Mother’s Veg Plaza |
| Best Seafood | Paragon, Curry Chatty, Villa Maya |
| Budget-Friendly & Quick Bites | Aryaas Park, Indian Coffee House |
| Best Biryani in Thiruvananthapuram | Paragon, Zam Zam, Buraq’s Laadhiidh |
| Mughlai & North Indian Cuisine | Buraq’s Laadhiidh, Zam Zam |
| Italian & Continental Delicacies | The Supreme Upper Crust |
| Best Breakfast Spot | Aryaas Park, Indian Coffee House |
| Modern Kerala Street Food | Thakkaaram |
Travel Tips for Food Lovers Visiting Thiruvananthapuram
- Try Kerala Meals at Villa Maya, Paragon, or Mother’s Veg Plaza for an authentic experience.
- Seafood lovers should head to Kovalam Beach for fresh fish and prawns at beachside cafés.
- For budget travelers, Indian Coffee House & Aryaas Park are the best options.
- Vegetarians have great choices at Mother’s Veg Plaza & Aryaas Park.
- Check restaurant timings, especially for places that close early after lunch.
This guide ensures any new visitor to Thiruvananthapuram doesn’t need to search elsewhere for the best dining experiences.