Kozhikode, often referred to as Calicut, is a coastal city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, most importantly, its delectable cuisine, Kozhikode is a paradise for food enthusiasts. In this “Food Lover’s Guide to Kozhikode,” we will explore the culinary treasures of this charming city, highlighting some of the most popular shops and must-try dishes. This article suggests some of the most mentioned shops and dishes in Kozhikode by travellers and may not mention every dishes and restaurants that are locally popular.
Popular Eateries in Kozhikode:
- Sagar Restaurant: Located on Kannur Road, this restaurant is famous for its Malabar Biryani.
- Paragon Restaurant: A legendary eatery known for its delectable seafood dishes, especially the Malabar Dum Biryani.
- Zain’s Hotel: Renowned for its traditional Malabar dishes like Thalassery Biryani and Kallummakkaya (mussels) biryani.
- Salkara Restaurant: A must-visit for authentic Malabar cuisine, offering dishes like Pathiri, Fish Moilee, and Nadan Kozhi Curry.
- Bombay Hotel: Famous for its evening snacks like Chai and Pazham Pori (banana fritters).
- Mezban Restaurant: Known for its Mutton Dum Biryani and Kozhikode Halwa.
- Paragon Sweets: Don’t miss their Kozhikode Halwa and Banana Chips.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Malabar Biryani: A fragrant and flavorful rice dish with tender pieces of meat, often accompanied by a boiled egg and raita.
- Kallummakkaya (Mussels) Biryani: A unique and spicy biryani made with mussels and Malabar spices.
- Thalassery Biryani: A variation of biryani known for its fragrant rice and succulent pieces of chicken or mutton.
- Kozhikode Halwa: A mouthwatering dessert made from roasted wheat, ghee, and sugar, with a distinct black color.
- Pathiri: Thin rice flour pancakes, often served with spicy curries or sweet coconut milk.
- Fish Moilee: A creamy coconut milk-based fish curry with subtle flavors.
- Nadan Kozhi Curry: A spicy chicken curry made with traditional Kerala spices.
- Pazham Pori: Deep-fried banana fritters that make for a perfect tea-time snack.
Kozhikode’s culinary heritage is a testament to the rich and diverse flavors of Kerala. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries, fragrant biryanis, or sweet desserts, Kozhikode has something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this food lover’s paradise on your next visit to Kerala.
Rakesh C KRakesh C K is a seasoned marketing professional with over 16 years of experience in Digital and Content Marketing, specializing in SEO, Branding, and Growth Strategy. An alumnus of IIM Kozhikode, he has led impactful marketing initiatives across industries such as Travel and Tourism, Lifestyle, Cybersecurity, SaaS, EdTech, Pharma, and E-commerce. Known for blending analytical thinking with creative storytelling, Rakesh has built brands, scaled online presence, and driven measurable growth through strategy, execution, and innovation. He currently focuses on helping businesses strengthen their digital footprint and connect meaningfully with their audiences.