Kozhikode (Calicut), nestled along Kerala’s Malabar Coast, is a paradise for food lovers and culture seekers. Its vibrant markets and lip-smacking street food reflect the city’s rich history, spice trade legacy, and culinary diversity.
1. SM Street (Sweet Meat Street)
Why visit: The heart of Kozhikode’s shopping and street food culture, buzzing with locals and tourists alike.
Highlights: – Banana chips fried fresh – Calicut Halwa in endless flavors – Traditional Kerala saris and souvenirs
Timing: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Kuttichira Market
Why visit: A bustling market in the Muslim Quarter known for its spices, fresh produce, and traditional bites.
Highlights: – Malabar biryani stalls – Authentic pathiris and samosas – Fragrant local spices and herbs
Timing: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
3. Mithai Theruvu Evening Food Stalls
Why visit: A haven for evening snack lovers craving crispy, fried local favorites.
Highlights: – Pazham pori (banana fritters) – Beef cutlets and parottas – Chattipathiri (layered sweet snack)
Timing: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free
4. Palayam Market
Why visit: One of the oldest and liveliest markets, offering a mix of produce and traditional food counters.
Highlights: – Fresh seafood stalls – Tapioca with fish curry – Street-side chai and pazham nirachathu
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Thali Temple Street Vendors
Why visit: A spiritual zone that also serves up soulful snacks during festivals and temple hours.
Highlights: – Kozhikode banana roast – Appam with stew – Local payasam during temple fairs
Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
6. Kallai Market
Why visit: Famous for its fish and spice markets, this area is full of character and traditional Malabar flavor.
Highlights: – Karimeen fry stalls – Prawn vada – Hand-pounded spice mixes
Timing: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free
7. Beach Road Food Stalls
Why visit: Offers iconic sunset views paired with delicious seafood and Kerala snacks.
Highlights: – Fried mussels and squid – Chicken kondattam – Ice gola and roasted peanuts
Timing: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free
8. Mananchira Square Street Eats
Why visit: Surrounded by colonial-era charm, the square lights up with food carts in the evenings.
Highlights: – Spicy chicken rolls – Egg puffs and meat samosas – Kulukki sarbath (shaken lemon drink)
Timing: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Valiyangadi Bazaar
Why visit: A traditional market that blends street food with wholesale spices and local crafts.
Highlights: – Kozhikode biryani on banana leaves – Freshly roasted coffee – Traditional coconut sweets
Timing: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Meenchantha Junction Food Corners
Why visit: Popular with locals for its range of quick eats and breakfast delights.
Highlights: – Idiyappam and mutta curry – Fish cutlets – Local-style dosas with chutneys
Timing: 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM & 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Free
Feature Image:- Photo by Arun Geetha Viswanathan on Unsplash
