Kochi is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of authentic Kerala cuisine, seafood specialties, luxury dining, and street food. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal or a fine dining experience, this guide will help you find the best restaurants in Kochi.
1. Dhe Puttu
Best for Authentic Kerala Breakfast & Puttu Varieties
Why Visit?
Owned by famous Malayalam actor Dileep, Dhe Puttu is a specialty restaurant dedicated to Puttu, Kerala’s famous steamed rice cake.
What to Eat?
- Kadala Curry with Puttu (Black Chickpea Curry)
- Chemmeen Puttu (Prawn-Stuffed Puttu)
- Meen Puttu (Fish Puttu)
- Nutella Puttu (Sweet Version)
Location: Edappally, Near Lulu Mall
Timings: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cost for Two: ₹500 – ₹700
Nearest Metro: Edappally Metro Station
Pro Tip: Try their specialty seafood puttu – a unique dish only available in Kochi!
2. Paragon Restaurant
Best for Malabar Biryani & Seafood
Why Visit?
One of Kerala’s most famous biryani and seafood restaurants, Paragon is a must-visit for authentic Malabar cuisine.
What to Eat?
- Malabar Chicken Biryani
- Prawn Mango Curry
- Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish in Banana Leaf)
- Thalassery Mutton Curry
Location: Lulu Mall, Edappally
Timings: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Cost for Two: ₹800 – ₹1200
Nearest Metro: Edappally Metro Station
Pro Tip: Go early during weekends – it’s always crowded!
3. The Rice Boat (Taj Malabar Resort & Spa)
Best for Luxury Dining & Seafood with a Backwater View
Why Visit?
Located inside the Taj Malabar Resort, The Rice Boat is Kochi’s most luxurious seafood restaurant with a stunning backwater view.
What to Eat?
- Lobster Thermidor
- Tiger Prawns with Butter Garlic Sauce
- King Fish Fry Kerala Style
- Seafood Thali
Location: Willingdon Island
Timings: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cost for Two: ₹2500 – ₹4000
Nearest Ferry: Willingdon Island Ferry Terminal
Pro Tip: Reserve a table in advance for the best backwater sunset view!
4. Grand Pavilion
Best for Traditional Kerala Sadhya & Syrian Christian Cuisine
Why Visit?
A legendary restaurant in Kochi famous for Kerala Sadhya (Traditional Veg Feast) and Syrian Christian cuisine.
What to Eat?
- Kerala Sadhya (On Banana Leaf) – Lunch Only
- Duck Roast
- Beef Fry & Porotta
- Nadan Kozhi Curry (Traditional Chicken Curry)
Location: MG Road, Ernakulam
Timings: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Cost for Two: ₹600 – ₹900
Nearest Metro: MG Road Metro Station
Pro Tip: Visit during Onam Festival for the best Sadhya experience!
5. Fusion Bay
Best for Fusion Kerala Cuisine
Why Visit?
A hidden gem in Fort Kochi that offers a modern twist on Kerala flavors with continental fusion dishes.
What to Eat?
- Fish Moilee (Coconut Milk Fish Curry)
- Crab Masala
- Spicy Mussels Fry
- Jackfruit & Coconut Payasam
Location: Fort Kochi
Timings: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cost for Two: ₹700 – ₹1000
Nearest Bus Stop: Fort Kochi Bus Stop
Pro Tip: Try their homemade pickles – they’re a local favorite!
Other Notable Mentions
6. Kashi Art Café – Best for Breakfast & Coffee
- Location: Fort Kochi
- Cost for Two: ₹500 – ₹800
- Pro Tip: Try their French Toast & Cold Coffee!
7. Ginger House Restaurant – Best for Waterfront Dining & Seafood
- Location: Jew Town, Mattancherry
- Cost for Two: ₹800 – ₹1200
- Pro Tip: Try their Seafood Platter with a harbor view!
8. Oceanos Restaurant – Best for Portuguese & Kerala Fusion Cuisine
- Location: Fort Kochi
- Cost for Two: ₹700 – ₹1000
- Pro Tip: Try their special Prawn & Mango Curry!
9. Kayees Biryani – Best for Mutton Biryani
- Location: Mattancherry
- Cost for Two: ₹500 – ₹800
- Pro Tip: Visit before 2 PM – their Biryani sells out fast!
10. Pandhal Café – Best for Quick Bites & South Indian Meals
- Location: MG Road, Ernakulam
- Cost for Two: ₹400 – ₹700
- Pro Tip: Perfect spot for a light evening snack & filter coffee.
Final Foodie Tips for Tourists
- Try Kerala’s Traditional Breakfast – Appam with Stew or Puttu with Kadala Curry.
- Spice Level Warning – Kerala food can be very spicy! Ask for mild spice if needed.
- Cash & UPI Payments – Most restaurants accept digital payments, but some small eateries prefer cash.
- Weekend Reservations – Top places like Paragon & Rice Boat get fully booked on weekends.