When you land in the lively, historic coastal city of Kochi in Kerala, you’ll quickly realise one thing: the food here is not just nourishment — it’s culture, heritage, and experience all on your plate. From the layered textures of breads to creamy coconut-rich curries and street-food snacks, the cuisine is vibrant, soulful, and thoroughly local.

As you explore this city — whether for studies, business, or leisure — make sure your taste buds go on a little journey too. Below are 10 must-try dishes you’ll find around Kochi.

1. Puttu & Kadala Curry

Start your day the Kerala way with this breakfast staple. Puttu is steamed rice flour layered with coconut shavings, and the curry of kadala (black chickpeas) is spiced and rich. It’s simple, satisfying, and hugely local.
Tip: Try it at a local console-style eatery early in the morning to soak in the real flavour of Kochi mornings.

2. Appam & Stew

Soft, lacy-edged rice pancakes (appam) paired with a creamy coconut-milk stew make for a quintessential Kerala breakfast or brunch. The stew may be vegetable, chicken, or mutton-based — rich and aromatic.
Why try it: It reflects the Syrian Christian influence in Kerala cuisine and offers a gentle introduction to local flavours.

3. Malabar Parotta & Beef Curry

For lovers of bold flavour, this combo is unmissable. The flaky, layered parotta bread is perfect for scooping up a deeply spiced beef curry (or beef fry) — a popular local favourite in Kochi.
Note: Non-vegetarian dish; if you prefer vegetarian, there are equally tasty options listed below.

4. Meen Pollichathu (Banana-leaf Wrapped Fish)

Drawing from Kochi’s coastal heritage, this dish wraps a spiced fish in banana leaf and grills or sautés it, locking in smoke and flavour. The result: a texture and aroma that says “Kerala coast.”
Pro tip: Ask for a local sea fish variant, and pair it with steamed rice or puttu for authenticity.

5. Kappa & Meen Curry (Tapioca & Fish Curry)

Kappa (boiled tapioca) served with a tangy and spicy fish curry is another hearty local meal. It’s comforting, rooted in home-style cooking, and well-loved by locals.
Why it stands out: The combo highlights local staples (tapioca) and seafood culture simultaneously.

6. Thattu Dosa

Thattu dosa is a local favourite — crisp, thin, often served folded with chutneys or even meat/egg fillings. Perfect for a snack while strolling through Kochi’s markets.
Tip: Try it at a “thattu-kada” (street stall) for the authentic experience.

7. Sadya (Traditional Vegetarian Feast)

A grand vegetarian meal served on a banana leaf, featuring rice and a spread of dishes like avial, olan, kootukari, pickles, payasam, and more. It’s not just food — it's a celebration on a leaf.
When to try: Visit during festivals or check with a restaurant offering Sadya; it’s an experience, not just a meal.

8. Pazham Pori & Tea (Banana Fritters)

For a snack break: thinly sliced ripe bananas coated in batter and deep-fried to golden crispiness. Pair it with a steaming cup of chai and you’ve got a true Kerala tea-time moment.
Where: Look for small roadside stalls or bakeries in Kochi’s neighbourhoods.

9. Ada Pradhaman (Sweet Payasam)

This rich dessert, made of rice-ada, jaggery, coconut milk, ghee, and often nuts, brings the meal to a sweet finish. Found at home, at festivals, and in restaurants alike.
Tip: Share this after a hearty meal — it’s delightfully rich and flavourful.

10. Idiyappam & Fish Moilee

Light rice-flour noodle-style nests (idiyappam) paired with a fragrant, mildly spiced fish stew (moilee) cooked in coconut milk. A fine breakfast or lunch choice that’s a little different.
Why include it: It shows the subtle side of Kerala cuisine — lighter textures, coconut base, and seafood.

Experience Kochi Through Its Flavours

From humble street food to festive feasts, every dish in Kochi reflects Kerala’s warmth and heritage. So, when you’re here — don’t just visit the sights; taste the city too.

Whether you’re a student exploring new cultures or a traveller chasing experiences, Kerala’s food is the perfect place to start your journey.