Ooty’s local cuisine is a delicious blend of Tamil Nadu flavors and hill station specialties that delight every food lover. From spicy dosas to unique Nilgiri snacks, here are the must-try local foods and the best places to savor them in Ooty.
1. Masala Dosa at Adyar Ananda Bhavan
Why visit: Crispy, golden dosas stuffed with spiced potato filling served with chutneys and sambar are a South Indian breakfast staple.
Highlights: – Crunchy texture – Flavorful potato masala – Authentic chutneys
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹70–₹120
2. Nilgiri Tea and Snacks at Tea Factory Café
Why visit: Savor fresh Nilgiri tea paired with local snacks like banana chips and murukku in a cozy setting.
Highlights: – Freshly brewed tea – Homemade snacks – Scenic views
Timing: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry: ₹30–₹100
3. Ooty Varkey at Local Bakeries
Why visit: Try this flaky, layered biscuit unique to Ooty—perfect with evening tea or as a souvenir.
Highlights: – Buttery layers – Slightly sweet – Crispy texture
Timing: Bakery hours 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹20–₹50 per pack
4. Vegetable Kurma at Hotel Sri Brindhavan
Why visit: Rich and mildly spiced vegetable kurma served with idli, dosa, or rice offers comforting flavors.
Highlights: – Creamy coconut base – Mixed vegetables – Mild heat
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–₹200
5. Homemade Chocolates from Local Shops
Why visit: Ooty is famous for its chocolates made with local ingredients; try dark, milk, and nut varieties.
Highlights: – Freshly made – Variety of flavors – Great gifts
Timing: Shops open 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹100 onwards
6. Sambar Rice at Sri Amman Mess
Why visit: Traditional South Indian sambar rice with a flavorful lentil and tamarind stew is a hearty meal loved by locals.
Highlights: – Tangy sambar – Steamed rice – Accompanied by pickle and papad
Timing: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹80–₹150
7. Chicken Chettinad at Earl’s Secret
Why visit: Try the famous spicy and aromatic Chettinad chicken curry, cooked with freshly ground spices.
Highlights: – Rich gravy – Balanced spice – Authentic taste
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Entry: ₹400–₹700
8. Idiyappam and Stew at Local Breakfast Spots
Why visit: Soft, stringy rice noodles served with coconut milk-based vegetable or chicken stew make for a comforting meal.
Highlights: – Light and fluffy noodles – Mild coconut stew – Traditional breakfast
Timing: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Entry: ₹50–₹150
9. Vegetable Biryani at Shinkows Restaurant
Why visit: Fragrant, mildly spiced vegetable biryani served with raita and salad is a great vegetarian option.
Highlights: – Aromatic basmati rice – Mixed veggies – Cooling yogurt side
Timing: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–₹300
10. Pakoras and Bajjis from Street Vendors
Why visit: Crunchy, spicy fried snacks like onion pakoras and banana bajjis make for perfect evening bites with chai.
Highlights: – Crisp coating – Spicy fillings – Popular street food
Timing: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹20–₹50 per serving
