Munnar, the misty hill station of Kerala, is known not only for its tea gardens and cool weather but also for its hearty mountain cuisine. Here, travellers can savour a mix of Kerala specialities, spicy curries, and simple home-style meals in cozy hill cafés and scenic resort restaurants.
1. Kerala Meals at Saravana Bhavan (Munnar Town)
Why visit: A top vegetarian choice offering traditional South Indian thalis on banana leaves.
Highlights: – Rice, sambar, avial, rasam – Served hot and unlimited – Budget-friendly and clean
Timing: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: No booking required; gets crowded during lunch
2. Malabar Chicken Curry at Rapsy Restaurant
Why visit: A small traveller-friendly joint known for flavour-packed local and Indian meals.
Highlights: – Malabar chicken curry – Ghee rice and parotta – Funky travel wall art
Timing: 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Walk-in; very popular with international tourists
3. Kerala Parotta & Beef Fry at Hotel Gurubhavan
Why visit: A simple eatery for a spicy, authentic taste of high-range Kerala food.
Highlights: – Crisp Kerala parottas – Spicy beef fry – Local favourite
Timing: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: No reservations; best for dinner
4. Appam & Veg Stew at SN Restaurant
Why visit: Known for clean veg and non-veg combos, especially breakfast staples.
Highlights: – Appam with coconut stew – Variety of chutneys – Ideal for light lunch
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Centrally located; walk-in welcome
5. Kappa & Fish Curry at Alibaba & 41 Dishes
Why visit: Popular multi-cuisine place also serving fiery Kerala-style combos.
Highlights: – Tapioca and fish curry combo – Spicy gravies – Clean ambience
Timing: 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Great for group lunches or casual dinners
6. Homely Meals at Hotel Hillview Restaurant
Why visit: Resort-style dining with scenic surroundings and authentic meals.
Highlights: – Dal, sabzi, Kerala rice – North Indian options too – Peaceful ambience
Timing: 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Open to non-guests; reservations optional
7. Puttu & Kadala Curry at Mayabazar Restaurant
Why visit: A themed, film-inspired eatery known for its unique presentations and traditional dishes.
Highlights: – Puttu tower and kadala curry – Theatrical décor – Good for families
Timing: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Family-friendly, fun evening spot
8. Chilly Gobi & Fried Rice at Tea Tales Café
Why visit: A cosy café offering Indo-Chinese favourites and Indian teas in a scenic setup.
Highlights: – Gobi Manchurian – Chai varieties – Great hill views
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Walk-in; ideal for tea breaks
9. South Indian Breakfast at Al Buhari Restaurant
Why visit: Simple and satisfying breakfast joint for dosas, idli, and filter coffee.
Highlights: – Variety of dosas – Strong coffee – Early opening
Timing: 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Entry: Best for early risers; no booking needed
10. Home-cooked meals at Plantation Stays
Why visit: Many homestays in Munnar offer authentic vegetarian and non-veg meals with a personal touch.
Highlights: – Customised Kerala meals – Roti, sabzi, or fish curry on request – Fresh local ingredients
Timing: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner based on stay
Entry: Must be informed in advance to host
