Explore Munnar's famous food, from Kerala-style dishes to unique hill station delicacies.
Nestled in the lush green hills of Kerala, Munnar is celebrated for its breathtaking tea plantations and natural beauty. But did you know Munnar is also a paradise for food lovers? From mouthwatering Kerala delicacies to soul-warming snacks, Munnar’s famous food tells stories of tradition, spices, and local culture. In this guide, we’ll take you on a delicious journey through the must-try dishes, their history, and the best places to relish them.
Puttu and Kadala Curry

History :
Puttu, a steamed rice cake layered with grated coconut, dates back to ancient Kerala kitchens. It’s been a breakfast staple in South Indian homes for centuries. Kadala curry, made with black chickpeas and spiced coconut gravy, perfectly complements the soft, fluffy puttu.
Why so famous:
The combination of mildly sweet puttu and spicy kadala curry offers a beautiful contrast of flavors, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Tip:
Enjoy puttu with a dash of banana or sugar if you want a sweeter twist.
Best places to try:
Saravana Bhavan (Munnar Town) serves an authentic version of this dish.
Hotel Gurubhavan is also known for its traditional South Indian breakfasts.
Kappa and Fish Curry

History :
Kappa (tapioca) has been a survival food in Kerala for centuries, especially during times of food scarcity. Combined with spicy, tangy fish curry made from tamarind and coconut milk, it became a staple for fishermen and locals.
Why so famous:
The earthy taste of boiled tapioca balances the robust flavors of Kerala-style fish curry, offering a dish full of tradition and local flair.
Tip:
Look for fish curries prepared with kingfish or sardines for an authentic flavor.
Kappa tastes best when drizzled with coconut oil.
Best places to try:
Rapsy Restaurant is a must-visit for fresh fish curry paired with kappa.
SN Restaurant offers local delicacies cooked to perfection.
Appam with Stew

History :
Appam, a rice pancake with a crispy edge and soft, fluffy center, has been a signature dish of Kerala’s Syrian Christian community for over a millennium. Traditionally, it was served with mutton or vegetable stew, cooked in coconut milk with fragrant spices.
Why so famous:
Appam’s delicate texture pairs beautifully with the creamy, mildly spiced stew. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Tip:
Try the stew with tender chicken or seasonal vegetables for a lighter version.
Appam is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Best places to try:
Mayabazar Restaurant offers some of the best appam and stew in Munnar.
Eastend Munnar is also well-known for its Kerala-style breakfasts.
Â
Kerala Sadya

History :
A true representation of Kerala’s culinary heritage, Sadya is a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf during festivals like Onam. It features a variety of dishes, from rice and sambar to pickles and payasam (dessert).
Why so famous:
Sadya offers an explosion of flavors and textures – spicy, tangy, and sweet – in a single meal. It’s a cultural experience as much as a culinary one.
Tip:
Follow the traditional way of eating Sadya – start with rice, sambar, and papadam before moving to other dishes.
Don’t skip the payasam for a sweet ending!
Best places to try:
Many restaurants, like Hotel Sri Nivas in Munnar, serve Sadya during festive seasons.
Taste the Mountain offers customized Sadya platters on request.
Â
Kerala Parotta with Beef Fry

History :
Originating from Malabar, Kerala parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread made with all-purpose flour. It became popular across Kerala due to its unique texture. Pairing it with spicy beef fry, marinated and cooked in a medley of spices, made it an instant hit.
Why so famous:
The chewy parotta soaks up the spicy beef curry, creating a burst of flavors that locals and tourists can’t resist.
Tip:
Parotta tastes best when it’s crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Pair it with coconut chutney for added flavor.
Best places to try:
Hotel Gurubhavan serves the best Kerala parotta with beef fry.
New York Fried Chicken is another popular spot offering Kerala-style dishes.
Ela Ada (Sweet Rice Dumplings)

History :
Ela Ada, a traditional sweet snack in Kerala, is made from rice flour, grated coconut, and jaggery, all steamed in banana leaves. This simple dish dates back to Kerala’s agrarian households, where it was enjoyed during tea breaks.
Why so famous:
The aroma of steamed banana leaves combined with the sweet filling makes Ela Ada an irresistible delicacy.
Tip:
Try it with a cup of hot tea for the ultimate snack experience.
Freshly made Ela Ada has the best taste and texture.
Best places to try:
Local tea shops and bakeries across Munnar often sell Ela Ada.
Try roadside stalls near tea estates for freshly prepared ones.
Tea and Local Snacks

History :
Munnar’s history is deeply connected to tea plantations, established during British colonial rule. Local snacks like vazhipazham fry (banana fritters), samosas, and spicy pakoras became popular tea-time accompaniments.
Why so famous:
Sipping fresh tea amidst the sprawling tea gardens of Munnar is an experience like no other. Pair it with crispy local snacks for an unbeatable combination.
Tip:
Try different types of teas, including cardamom, ginger, and masala tea.
Enjoy tea from plantation-run cafes for the freshest brew.
Best places to try:
Visit Munnar Tea Museum Café for a variety of fresh brews.
Lockhart Tea Estate Café offers stunning views along with excellent tea.
Â
Conclusion:
Munnar isn’t just a visual delight; it’s also a culinary treasure trove waiting to be explored. From traditional breakfasts like puttu and appam to soul-satisfying local snacks, every dish tells a tale of Kerala’s rich food culture. On your next visit to Munnar, don’t just sip tea—take time to savor the diverse and delightful flavors that make this hill station so special.
Ready to explore Munnar’s famous food? Pack your bags and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable adventure!