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

Food History of Wayanad, Kerala, India

The food culture of Wayanad, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is rich and varied, reflecting the history and geography of the region. Influenced by indigenous tribal communities, neighboring regions, and colonial history, Wayanad's cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and techniques. The district is well known for its spices, coffee, tea, and other plantations which contribute to the distinct taste of its food. Rice is the staple food, and agriculture plays a pivotal role in defining the culinary landscape. Locally grown ingredients like tapioca, yams, and various leafy vegetables are also prominent in Wayanadian dishes.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes in Wayanad, Kerala, India

1. Puttu and Kadala Curry (Veg): A popular breakfast dish made from steamed rice cake served with a black chickpeas curry.
2. Appam with Vegetable Stew (Veg): A fermented rice pancake with a creamy, coconut milk-based vegetable stew.
3. Kerala Sadya (Veg): A traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves with a variety of dishes including rice, various vegetables, pickles, and sweets.
4. Tapioca and Fish Curry (Non-Veg): A favorite combination of boiled tapioca served with spicy fish curry, reflecting the local love for freshwater fish.
5. Kattu Soup (Veg): A herbal soup made from a variety of local leaves, believed to have medicinal properties.
6. Pathiri with Chicken Curry (Non-Veg): A soft rice flour bread paired with a rich and spicy chicken curry.
7. Idiyappam with Egg Curry (Non-Veg): String hoppers made from rice flour served with a flavorful egg curry.
8. Bamboo Rice Payasam (Veg): A sweet dessert made from bamboo rice, milk, and sugar, often flavored with cardamom.
9. Kerala Porotta with Veg Kurma (Veg): A layered flatbread made from maida flour, served with a coconut-based mixed vegetable curry.
10. Jackfruit Chips (Veg): Crispy fried pieces of jackfruit, a popular snack in the region.

Top Famous Restaurants in Wayanad, Kerala, India

• 1980's A Nostalgic Restaurant
  Address: Sentinel Rock Estates Road, Vythiri, Wayanad
  Famous Food: Vegetable Kurma (Veg)
• The Coffee Grove Restaurant & Resorts - CG - Ala
  Address: Chuzhali, Bavali PO, Kerala
  Famous Food: Appam with Stew (Veg)
• Wilton Restaurant
  Address: Wilton Hotel, Main Road, Kalpetta, Wayanad
  Famous Food: Idiyappam with Egg Curry (Non-Veg)
• Udupi Restaurant
  Address: Kainatty Junction, Kalpetta, Wayanad
  Famous Food: Masala Dosa (Veg)
• Green Gates Hotel
  Address: TB Road, Kalpetta, Wayanad
  Famous Food: Kerala Sadya (Veg)
• Hotel Woodlands
  Address: Main Road, Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad
  Famous Food: Parotta with Vegetable Kurma (Veg)
• The Bungalow Restaurant
  Address: The Bungalow, Old Vythiri, Wayanad
  Famous Food: Pathiri with Chicken Curry (Non-Veg)