Rameshwaram’s food scene is deeply rooted in traditional Tamil vegetarian fare, simple temple-style meals, and local tiffin favorites. Whether you're looking for comforting dosas or festive thalis, here are the must-try local foods and where to find them in Rameshwaram.
1. Tamil-Style Banana Leaf Meals at Sri Murugan Mess
Why visit: Experience a traditional South Indian lunch with sambar, rasam, kootu, poriyal, and curd rice served on banana leaves.
Highlights: – Authentic Tamil flavors – Home-cooked style – Popular with locals
Timing: 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Entry: ₹120
2. Ghee Pongal and Medu Vada at Siva Sakthi Bhojanalaya
Why visit: This classic breakfast combo is a staple in Rameshwaram, offering soft pongal drizzled with ghee and crisp vadas.
Highlights: – Hot and fresh – Served with chutneys and sambar – Affordable and filling
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Entry: ₹50–₹80
3. Filter Coffee from Temple-Side Tea Stalls
Why visit: A small glass of strong, frothy Tamil filter coffee from a roadside stall is the perfect mid-morning pick-me-up.
Highlights: – Served in steel tumblers – Earthy and energizing – Great with snacks
Timing: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹20–₹30
4. Mini Tiffin at Ananda Bhavan
Why visit: Try a sampler-style tiffin plate featuring mini dosa, pongal, idli, and upma—all in one meal.
Highlights: – Great variety – Served quickly – Ideal for first-timers
Timing: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Entry: ₹90–₹120
5. Soft Idlis with Podi and Ghee at Aryaas Restaurant
Why visit: A Rameshwaram classic, the soft idlis here melt in your mouth when paired with spiced podi powder and ghee.
Highlights: – Served hot – Multiple chutneys – Near temple gate
Timing: 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM
Entry: ₹40–₹60
6. Gujarati Thali at Gujarati Bhavan
Why visit: If you're craving something different, this thali serves soft rotis, dal, sabzi, kadhi, and rice—all vegetarian and unlimited.
Highlights: – Pilgrim-friendly – Simple and nutritious – Family-style seating
Timing: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–₹200
7. Dosa Varieties at Ahaan Restaurant (Hotel Arjunaa)
Why visit: Ahaan offers everything from plain dosas to ghee roast, masala, and rava varieties with clean ambience.
Highlights: – Crunchy edges – Three chutney types – Great for dinner
Timing: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹80–₹150
8. Rasam and Rice Combo at Shabari Restaurant (Hotel Rameswaram Grand)
Why visit: If you're feeling under the weather or just want comfort food, their rasam rice is warm, peppery, and soothing.
Highlights: – Served with ghee and appalam – Neat setting – Fast service
Timing: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹120–₹150
9. Tamarind Rice and Lemon Rice at Local Messes
Why visit: These tangy rice dishes are easy to pack and perfect for temple-going days or long drives.
Highlights: – Served in banana wraps or parcels – Simple and tasty – Available at small messes and tea shops
Timing: 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Entry: ₹30–₹60
10. Fresh Coconut Water and Nungu (Ice Apple)
Why visit: Beat the coastal heat with a tender coconut or seasonal ice apple—refreshing and hydrating.
Highlights: – Roadside vendors – Natural coolant – Great after temple visits
Timing: Morning till evening
Entry: ₹30–₹50
Feature Image:- Photo by Jeswin Thomas
