A tranquil backwater town in Kerala, Kumarakom is known for its serene lakeside views, lush greenery, and houseboat experiences. While traditional Kerala cuisine dominates the local scene, there are a few spots where Indian travellers can find familiar North Indian, Punjabi, or pure vegetarian meals during their stay.
1. Aryas Veg Restaurant
Why visit: A reliable choice for South and North Indian vegetarian meals in a clean, no-frills setting.
Highlights: – Masala dosa and North Indian thali – Filter coffee – Prompt service and hygiene
Timing: 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Walk-in, no reservation required
2. Thali Restaurant by Backwater Ripples
Why visit: An upscale in-house restaurant offering multi-cuisine Indian dishes with lake views.
Highlights: – North Indian curries and tandoori options – Buffet meals – Peaceful ambience
Timing: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Entry: Available to non-resident guests with prior booking
3. Lakshmi Hotel & Resorts Restaurant
Why visit: Known for offering both Kerala specialties and custom Indian vegetarian meals on request.
Highlights: – Paneer butter masala – Fresh chapatis – Friendly staff accommodating food preferences
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Open to walk-ins and hotel guests
4. Cocobay Resort Dining
Why visit: Combines local Kerala dining with occasional North Indian buffet items during peak season.
Highlights: – Seasonal North Indian dishes – Lakefront candlelight setting – Customised meal options
Timing: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Advance table reservation recommended
5. Lime Tree by The Zuri
Why visit: A premium dining experience offering a well-curated mix of Indian cuisines.
Highlights: – North Indian kebabs – Dal makhani – Elegant interiors with live music
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: Book ahead for dinner hours
6. Home-cooked meals at homestays
Why visit: Several homestays offer Indian travellers personalised home-cooked Indian food.
Highlights: – Simple North Indian vegetarian meals – Chapati, sabzi, dal combos – Warm hospitality
Timing: Varies by host; often available on request
Entry: Inform the host in advance of dietary preferences
7. WaterScapes Restaurant
Why visit: Situated inside the KTDC resort, this restaurant offers Indian meals in a serene eco-resort setting.
Highlights: – Fixed Indian thali – Lake view seating – Family-friendly atmosphere
Timing: 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Open to non-guests for lunch and dinner
8. Indian selections at The Waterside
Why visit: Located in a luxury resort, this spot includes Indian items in its à la carte and buffet options.
Highlights: – Butter chicken – Tandoori naan – Great service in a quiet environment
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Entry: Reservation required during peak season
9. Packed Indian meals from Alleppey
Why visit: Some travellers arrange Indian vegetarian or Jain meals packed from Alleppey or Kochi.
Highlights: – Reliable for day tours or houseboats – Jain-friendly – Clean and well-packed
Timing: Must be pre-ordered
Entry: Delivered directly to boats or hotels
10. Houseboat chef-prepared Indian meals
Why visit: Most houseboats offer chef-made Indian dishes tailored to your taste.
Highlights: – Custom North Indian meals – Fresh ingredients – Peaceful backwater setting
Timing: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner as per your cruise timing
Entry: Included in houseboat booking if requested in advance
