There are some dishes which are all about comfort. Every bite can take you back in time and no matter how many times you have it, it never gets old. Kerala’s beloved Appam and Stew is one of those magical creations. Chicken stew and appams, also known as Kozhi Ishtu, holds a special place on the Easter and Christmas breakfast tables in Kerala but is just as adored at other times of the year as a comfort food.
This delightful dish, characterised by its creamy texture and aromatic flavours, stands apart from the usual spiciness found in many Indian curries. Typically, it is enjoyed alongside appam, a rice and coconut milk-based pancake that is steamed to perfection. Furthermore, the combination of appam and stew is not limited to festive occasions but is also a customary offering at weddings and other significant events within Kerala communities.
We caught up with some of Kochi’s foodies to find out what their top 10 spots for Appam and Stew are in the city.
1. Arripa Resturant, Palarivattom - Recommended by Chef George Thomas & @kochi.food.review
Arripa Restaurant in Palarivattom offers a diverse menu with a focus on Indian and Chinese cuisines. Their Kerala offerings include things like Pothichoru, Meen Curry and of course a solid Beef Stew. Known for its pleasant ambience and courteous service, it's a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Address: Koduvathara Rd, near Tutus Tower, Sonia Nagar, Palarivattom, Ernakulam, Kerala 682025
Timings: 12 pm - 12 am
Cost for two: ₹1,000 for two people (approx.)
2. Restaurant Chef Pillai, Maradu - Recommended by @kochi.food.review
Chef Pillai, serves delectable array of Kerala cuisine. This restaurant is renowned for its traditional dishes like Kuttanad duck roast, the grillled tiger prawns, kollam mutton curry or the spiced Alleppey fish curry that promises to bring a whiff of Kerala home cooking to the mix, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic culinary experience.
Address: Koduvathara Rd, near Tutus Tower, Sonia Nagar, Palarivattom, Ernakulam, Kerala 682025
Timings: 12 pm - 12 am
Cost for two: ₹1,000 for two people (approx.)
3. Coffee Beanz Traditions, Chittoor Road - Recommended by Oneal Sabu (@fcboy83)
“I haven't had food from this place in long since they rebranded and shelved their outlet on MG Road but going by their history - the Appam and Stew has always been on point” says Oneal, “Coffee Beanz is big on Naadan Food, it has never disappointed the local palate.”
Address: 1711, Chittoor Rd, Vaduthala, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682023
Timings: 12 pm - 10:15 pm
Cost for two: ₹ 400 for two people (approx.)
4. Fusion Bay, Fort Kochi - Recommended by Rajesh P K
Specially loved for their seafood, Fusion Bay is a down-to-eath spot where good food is the key. They pride themselves on great quality plus great quantity which means that sitting down for a meal here means you’ll always leave satisfied.
Address: Santacruse Basilica Junction, 1/451, KB Jacob Rd, Fort Nagar, Kunnumupuram, Fort, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 1 pm - 10 pm
Cost for two: ₹ 1,500 for two people (approx.)
5. Fort House Restaurant, Fort Kochi - Recommended by Anish Menon
This waterfront spot is perfect for a scenic dinner date. Take in a unique gastronomical experience as the river laps by gently. There menu features a mix of continental and Kerala cuisine, and they are known for their seafood in particular. Their stew is a homely hearty affair which you’ll enjoy mopping up with their appams to the last drop.
Address: No.2, 6A, Calvathy Rd, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 1pm – 10pm
Cost for two: ₹ 1,000 for two people (approx.)
6. Grand Hotel, MG Road - Recommended by Oneal Sabu (@fcboy83) & Chef George Thomas
Authenticity is the key at this spot. “Appams and Stew both have been good for an eternity out here. It’s the place one cannot skip for traditional central Kerala Cuisine including the Syrian Christian delicacies that are a part of Central Kerala's cuisine.” says Oneal, “I like the Appam and stew at Grand cuz it's standard and the stew is more or less the same as we prepare at home.” Chef Thomas also cites it as a solid place for delicious cuisine.
Address: M.G Road, Woodlands Junction, opposite Malabar Gold, Kochi, Kerala 682011
Timings: 1 pm - 10 pm
Cost for two: ₹ 1,500 for two people (approx.)
7. History, Brunton Boatyard, Fort Kochi - Recommended by Rajesh P K
Inside this gorgeous heritage hotel lies a taste of history…at History! They offer a wide variety of Kerala staples and also have a few classics with a twist to explore. Their menu includes dishes from 32 cuisines from all the communities that have made Fort Kochi their home. It truly is a look at Kochi’s rich history on a plate.
Address: 1/498, Calvetty Road, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 7:30 am - 7:30 pm
Cost for two: ₹ 3,500 for two people (approx.)
8. Malabar Cafe, Bolgatty - Recommended by Chef George Thomas
Hotel restaurants sometimes leave a lot to be desired, but Chef George believes that Malabar Cafe has earned its chops. Serving up age old recipes in an updated setting, Malabar Cafe is definitely an elevated take on a humble dish, but well worth the visit.
Address: Lobby Level, Grand Hyatt Kochi, Mulavukad, Bolgatty, Kochi, Kerala 682504
Timings: 6:30–10:30 am, 12–3 pm, 7–10:30 pm
Cost for two: ₹ 2,400 for two people (approx.)
9. Paragon, Edappally - Recommended by Oneal Sabu (@fcboy83), Anishya (@anishyaskitchen) & Chef George Thomas
Everyone’s favourite destination, Paragon is a much loved establishment for all Kochi residents. “Paragon has the best SOP for anyone to follow in terms of representing Kerala Cuisine in a commercial setting - a lot of Naadan (local term for Desi) food restaurants that are now popular in Kerala and outside of the state have modelled their menus based on Paragon.” explains Oneal, “Although the Stew at Paragon is less creamy compared to the ones we get otherwise in Kochi... it is the fluffy crispy edged Appams that help neutralise the hit of pepper from the stew. Paragon represents Kerala on the global stage and the Appams are proof of why ... perhaps the best ones you can find.”
Address: Lulu Shopping Mall, Edappally Junction, Nethaji Nagar, Edappally, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682024
Timings: 11 am - 11 pm
Cost for two: ₹ 900 for two people (approx.)
10. Teapot Cafe, Fort Kochi - Recommended by Rajesh P K
An old-school place with old-world charms. Teapot Cafe has the air of a tearoom and offers up an interesting selection of hot beverages and baked goods. But they also have a selection of Kerala cuisine favourites to choose from. It’s a step back in time to dine here and is a much beloved spot for locals.
Address: Peter Celli St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Timings: 8:30 am - 9 pm
Cost for two: ₹500 for two people (approx.)