Kannur, perched along Kerala’s northern coast, is a treasure trove of spicy Malabari flavours, seafood delights, and traditional snacks. Known for its fiery biryanis, coastal curries, and hearty breakfasts, this town serves food that’s rich in history and bursting with taste.
1. Malabar Chicken Biryani at MVK Restaurant
Why visit: A legendary biryani house in Kannur serving flavourful rice dishes with a loyal local following.
Highlights: – Aromatic chicken biryani – Served with raita and pickle – Fast service, generous portions
Timing: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Walk-in; lunchtime fills quickly
2. Thalassery Biryani at Sahib’s Grill Kitchen
Why visit: Offers the iconic Thalassery-style biryani made with small-grain rice and ghee-rich flavours.
Highlights: – Chicken or mutton options – Layered and mildly spiced – Classy modern interiors
Timing: 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Best visited for dinner
3. Fish Curry Meals at Hotel Odhens
Why visit: One of Kannur’s oldest and most beloved seafood restaurants serving traditional meals.
Highlights: – Meen curry with Kerala rice – Sardine and seer fish options – Authentic and spicy
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: No reservations; expect a short wait
4. Kallummakkaya (Mussels) Fry at Kaippunyam Restaurant
Why visit: A local gem known for its mussel dishes and homely Kerala meals.
Highlights: – Crispy mussel fry – Coconut chutney sides – Simple, clean ambience
Timing: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Great for seafood lovers; casual setup
5. Pazham Nirachathu at Local Bakeries
Why visit: A popular Kannur snack where bananas are stuffed with coconut-jaggery filling and fried.
Highlights: – Sweet and warm treat – Best with chai – Available at most tea shops
Timing: 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Entry: No booking; ideal evening snack
6. Dosa & Chutney at Indian Coffee House
Why visit: A timeless stop for quick South Indian breakfast with nostalgic charm.
Highlights: – Ghee dosa, masala dosa – Coconut and tomato chutney – Vintage service style
Timing: 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry: Walk-in; breakfast peak hours get busy
7. Neychoru & Beef Curry at Sahib’s Kitchenette
Why visit: Known for Malabar ghee rice served with spicy beef or chicken curry combos.
Highlights: – Ghee rice with fried shallots – Rich beef gravy – Great for lunch
Timing: 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: No reservations required
8. Evening Thattukada Snacks near Payyambalam Beach
Why visit: Roadside stalls selling Kerala’s best fried bites just as the sun sets over the sea.
Highlights: – Ulli vada, pazham pori, parippu vada – Served hot with black tea – Beach atmosphere
Timing: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Street food style; casual and fast
9. Sadya Meals at Malayala Sadya
Why visit: Experience the elaborate vegetarian feast of Kerala with over 15 dishes on a banana leaf.
Highlights: – Avial, rasam, pulissery, payasam – Unlimited rice – Best on weekends
Timing: 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Entry: Booking recommended on holidays
10. Home-style Meals at Kannur Homestays
Why visit: Many hosts offer personal Kerala dishes with authentic Malabari recipes and warmth.
Highlights: – Fish fry, thoran, pachadi – Customisable spice – Intimate, local feel
Timing: Based on guest request
Entry: Meals must be requested in advance
Feature Image:- Photo by Akshay Anil
