Kannur, known for its rich cultural heritage, also offers a fantastic culinary scene. From traditional Kerala cuisine to international flavors, Kannur has something for every food lover. Here’s a detailed guide on the best restaurants in Kannur, making it easy for tourists and visitors to find exactly what they’re looking for.
1. MVK Restaurant
Location: Kannur, Kerala
Cuisine: Traditional Kerala, Malabar Cuisine, Seafood
Why Visit:
- MVK Restaurant is one of the most popular places in Kannur, known for its delicious and authentic Kerala food, especially Malabar Biriyani and seafood dishes. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the true taste of Kannur.
What to Try:
- Malabar Biryani: Aromatic rice cooked with marinated chicken or mutton, a local specialty.
- Fish Curry: Fresh catch from the sea cooked with local spices.
- Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish): Kerala’s signature fish, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection.
- Appam and Stew: A traditional Kerala breakfast with soft appams (rice pancakes) served with a delicious stew.
Best Time to Visit:
- Lunch and dinner hours (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM for lunch and 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM for dinner).
- Weekdays for a quieter dining experience.
Secret Tip:
- If you’re looking for a true local dining experience, opt for their traditional Kerala meal served on a banana leaf.
2. Sree Raghavendra Hotel
Location: Kannur
Cuisine: South Indian, Vegetarian
Why Visit:
- Sree Raghavendra Hotel is a highly rated vegetarian restaurant in Kannur. It’s perfect for tourists looking for traditional South Indian meals, and it offers a fantastic dining experience with quality service.
What to Try:
- Dosas and Idlis: Classic South Indian breakfast dishes, crispy dosas, and soft idlis served with sambhar and coconut chutney.
- Sambar Rice: Rice mixed with sambar and topped with a dollop of ghee.
- Vada: A crispy and savory fried donut-like snack that pairs well with chutneys.
- Chole Bhature: A North Indian dish made with deep-fried bread served with spicy chickpea curry.
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning (8:00 AM – 10:30 AM) for breakfast or afternoon (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM) for a quick, hearty meal.
Secret Tip:
- Don’t miss the Dosa; it’s one of the restaurant’s standout dishes. If you’re craving South Indian vegetarian food, this is the place to be.
3. The Royal Snail
Location: Dharmadam, Kannur
Cuisine: Continental, Seafood, Kerala Cuisine
Why Visit:
- The Royal Snail offers an exquisite fine dining experience with a great view of the sea. Known for its elegant ambiance and exceptional service, it’s ideal for a relaxed meal overlooking nature’s beauty.
What to Try:
- Grilled Fish: A perfect blend of spices and fresh fish, grilled to perfection.
- Prawns: Fresh prawns cooked in a variety of Kerala-style curries.
- Vegetarian Specialties: Traditional Kerala vegetarian dishes such as Avial and Thoran.
- Pasta and Pizza: For those looking for international cuisine with a Kerala twist.
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM) for a beautiful sunset dining experience.
Secret Tip:
- Don’t miss out on their signature seafood dishes, especially the Grilled Prawns or Fish Curry served with appams.
4. Kamaal Restaurant
Location: Near Payyambalam Beach, Kannur
Cuisine: Malabar Cuisine, Seafood, Kerala
Why Visit:
- Kamaal Restaurant is well-known for its fresh seafood and traditional Kerala dishes. Its location near the beach makes it a popular stop for those looking to enjoy a meal after a relaxing day at Payyambalam Beach.
What to Try:
- Fish Biryani: Aromatic and flavorful, made with the freshest local catch.
- Prawn Curry: Spicy and tangy prawn curry that’s packed with flavors.
- Mutton Roast: Perfectly spiced mutton cooked until tender.
- Kallummakkaya (Mussels): A favorite Kerala seafood delicacy.
Best Time to Visit:
- Evening (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM) to enjoy the beach view and fresh seafood.
Secret Tip:
- Ask the staff about the catch of the day; the seafood served is based on what is fresh and available at the time.
5. Hotel Odhens
Location: Fort Road, Kannur
Cuisine: Kerala, North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese
Why Visit:
- Hotel Odhens offers a blend of Kerala and North Indian dishes, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. The restaurant is known for its variety and quality, along with a comfortable and casual dining atmosphere.
What to Try:
- Malabar Biryani: The restaurant’s Malabar Biryani is highly recommended for its rich, flavorful taste.
- Kerala Sadya: A traditional feast with rice, sambar, pickles, and various curries, best enjoyed during festivals or special occasions.
- Kozhi Varuthathu (Fried Chicken): A local favorite, crispy and spicy, served with rice or roti.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry: A Kerala breakfast classic with steamed rice cakes and black chickpea curry.
Best Time to Visit:
- Lunch and dinner hours (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM for lunch and 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM for dinner).
Secret Tip:
- Ask for the Kerala Sadhya during festivals or special occasions, as it’s a true representation of Kerala’s food culture.
Conclusion
Kannur offers a rich and diverse food culture that caters to every taste and preference, from traditional Kerala dishes to international flavors. Whether you’re a seafood lover or someone looking to enjoy vegetarian delicacies, the top 5 restaurants in Kannur offer a variety of options that will enhance your travel experience. Enjoy local specialties, relax in beautiful settings, and dive into the vibrant food culture of Kannur!