Must-Try Foods In Kannur (Kerala) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Kannur, Kerala, India

The cuisine of Kannur is deeply rooted in the coastal and cultural heritage of Kerala. With a history that includes influences from Arab, Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonizers, Kannur's food reflects a blend of indigenous Tulu and Malayali cuisines along with foreign influences. The spices produced in the region, such as black pepper and cardamom, have played a crucial role in its culinary scene and economy. Kannur also has a strong tradition of vegetarian cuisine, much of which originates from the Brahmin community, although its coastal nature means seafood also features prominently. The practice of Ayurveda in the region further influences the local cuisine, emphasizing the use of ingredients that balance the body's elements.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Kannur

When touring Kannur, you would not want to miss out on these local delights:

1. Thalassery Biriyani (Non-Veg) – A fragrant rice dish made with short-grain Khaima/Jeerakasala rice, spices, and marinated chicken or fish.
2. Pathiri (Veg) – A thin rice flour bread traditionally served with a spicy curry, often made of vegetables or fish.
3. Neypathal (Veg) – Deep-fried rice bread, which is crispy on the outside and soft inside, typically paired with spicy curries.
4. Meen Curry (Non-Veg) – A tangy fish curry that utilizes the local Kudampuli (Malabar tamarind) for a distinct sour flavor.
5. Kallumakkaya (Mussels) Ularthiyathu (Non-Veg) – Mussels stir-fried with spices and condiments, a spicy and flavorful seafood delicacy.
6. Puttu (Veg) – Steamed cylinders of ground rice layered with coconut, commonly eaten with kadala curry (black chickpeas) or bananas.
7. Payasam (Veg) – A sweet dessert made of rice, vermicelli, or dal, cooked with milk and sugar, and flavored with spices such as cardamom and nuts.
8. Unnakkaya (Veg) – Banana stuffed with a sweet coconut filling, rolled into elongated shapes, and deep-fried until golden brown.
9. Erachi Puttu (Non-Veg) – Puttu with a layer of spiced meat, giving a twist to the traditional vegetarian version of this dish.
10. Ada Pradhaman (Veg) – A rich and sweet pudding made from rice ada, jaggery, and coconut milk, often served as a festive dessert.

Top Famous Restaurants in Kannur and Their Specialties

• Raandhal
  Address: New Bus Stand Road, sn park road, Kannur, Kerala 670001
  Famous for: Thalassery Biriyani (Non-Veg)
• Odhen's Hotel
  Address: Caltex, Kannur, Kerala 670002
  Famous for: Meen Curry (Non-Veg)
• Hotel Blue Nile
  Address: S N Park Road, Kannur, Kerala 670001
  Famous for: Kallumakkaya Ularthiyathu (Non-Veg)
• MVK Restaurant
  Address: South Bazar, Kannur, Kerala 670001
  Famous for: Neypathal (Veg)
• Paris Presidency
  Address: Thavakkara, Kannur, Kerala 670001
  Famous for: Erachi Puttu (Non-Veg)
• Sahib's Grill Kitchen
  Address: Kannur, Kerala 670007
  Famous for: Continental and Malabari dishes with both Veg and Non-Veg options
• Sheen Bakery
  Address: Fort Road, Kannur, Kerala 670001
  Famous for: Unnakkaya (Veg) and other bakery items