Also known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is home to various Indian communities. The Cochini Jews, Konkanis and even Gujaratis have made homes in the city. Kochi’s ethnic diversity also translates into its food culture, which includes regional as well as international cuisine. Numerous cafes serving everything from Malyali to European fare have sprung up in the city over the years. We recommend the five best ones:
Kashi Art Cafe
A tasteful space with a focus on art, Kashi Art Cafe in Fort Kochi is known for its salads, sandwiches and a brief selection of local dishes like appam and stew. Frequented mainly by art lovers, the place is home to exhibitions and installations by a different artist every month. Kashi Art Cafe’s patronage includes big names from the Malayalam film industry.
Mocha Art Cafe
Another artistic cafe, Mocha Art Cafe is situated next to the Paradesi Synagogue in Mattancherry’s Jew Town. The elegant cafe has paintings displayed for sale indoors, which has cosy seating, and also an appealing al fresco area. The fare is mainly European with a small section dedicated to Malyali dishes served with appam.
Qissa Cafe
With both indoor and outdoor seating and an extensive breakfast menu, Qissa Cafe is the ideal morning spot. Omelettes, pancakes and French toast are listed beside oatmeal and fresh fruit. For lunch, salads and sandwiches dominate the menu. There’s also “soup of the day” and both hot and cold beverages.
Bloomsbury’s Global Kitchen and Bakehouse
A bakery and cafe inside Kochi’s Lulu Mall, Bloomsbury’s has a lengthy menu which includes macarons, cookies, brownies and toffee pudding. The bakery’s cupcakes and cakes are very popular, as are the shakes. Bloomsbury’s also serves sizzlers with vegetables, roasted chicken and prawns.
Pepper House Cafe
Another gem in the Fort Kochi area, Pepper House Cafe is located right next to a garden. Sit outdoors to enjoy a mild breeze and then browse the attached library and gift shop. Sometimes, the cafe also hosts exhibitions. The menu mainly includes European food. Pepper House Cafe’s desserts are very popular and not to be missed.