Kerala Food Guide: Sadya, Appam & Malabar Cuisine

Quick answer

Kerala is a food-lover's state and very vegetarian-friendly. Must-tries include the banana-leaf sadya feast, appam with stew, puttu and idiyappam, the Malabar biryani, and superb coastal seafood. Vegetarian, Jain and vegan needs are easily met.

Vegetarian classics

The grand sadya (a multi-dish banana-leaf feast), appam with vegetable stew, puttu, idiyappam and avial — Kerala excels at vegetarian cuisine.

Coastal seafood

Fresh fish, prawns and mussels in coconut-based curries, plus the famous Malabar biryani and Kerala fish fry along the coast.

Snacks, sweets & drinks

Banana chips, unniyappam, payasam, filter coffee and fresh tender coconut water.

Dietary needs

Jain, vegan and other dietary requirements are easily arranged; just let us know and we brief your hosts.

Frequently asked questions

What food is Kerala famous for?

The banana-leaf sadya feast, appam with stew, puttu, idiyappam, Malabar biryani and outstanding coconut-based coastal seafood.

Is Kerala good for vegetarians?

Very — Kerala has one of India's richest vegetarian traditions, from the sadya to appam, puttu and avial, with easy Jain and vegan options.

What is a Kerala sadya?

A traditional vegetarian feast of many dishes served on a banana leaf, eaten especially during Onam and celebrations.

What seafood should I try in Kerala?

Coconut-based fish and prawn curries, Kerala fish fry, mussels and the famous Malabar biryani along the coast.

Can you arrange vegan or Jain food in Kerala?

Yes — vegan, Jain and other dietary needs are easily arranged; tell us and we brief your hosts in advance.

What should I drink in Kerala?

Fresh tender coconut water, strong South Indian filter coffee, and traditional payasam for something sweet.

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Kerala Food Guide