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What’s that one thing Keralites can never say no to. You have guessed what we are talking about, haven’t you? It is the Karimeen. Also known as pearl spot fish, this fish is equally popular among the people living in different geographical locations in Kerala. If you are still wondering what’s the hype is, you surely haven’t tasted Karimeen Pollichathu. Kerala style Karimeen Pollichathu is a comfort food for many. Cooked in coconut oil and covered with banana leaves, this delicacy has a unique preparation and scrumptious taste.
During his Kerala trip, American Chef and author Anthony Bourdain had compared the preparation of Meen Pollichathu to the classic French technique of fish en papillote I.e., fish steamed in parchment pouches. And when we talk about Meen Pollichathu, we can’t miss talking about Kochi, the Queen of the Arabian Sea. Apart from its historical significance and many tourist attractions, what makes Kochi truly special is its food culture. Yes, the place serves some of the bets seafood and Meen Pollichathu is no exception.
But where in Kochi can a visitor find the best Karimeen Pollichathu to enjoy? Don’t worry as we have your back like always. Slurrp caught up with some Kochi-based foodies and got the best guide for the places to Karimeen Pollichathu. Here are their recommendations. You can thank us later!
1. Vella Kanthari Restaurant
Recommended by: @kochi_fodiees
Keralites have an obsession with seafood, and we can’t deny this. When near Chittoor Road in Kerala, you can satisfy your sea food craving with Karimeen Pollichathu at Vella Kanthari restaurant. This restaurant serves a wide range of fish available and their karimeen pollichathu is worth a shot. @kochi_foodiees’s Aaftab said this restaurant use fresh fishes daily and what enhances the taste is their spices and flavours. This place is a must try, he added.
Price for two: Rs 300 (approx.)
Address: National Highway 966A, Near Ponnarimangalam toll plaza, Mulavukad, Ernakulam
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
2. Meenchatti Restaurant
Recommended by: Kochin Food Blogger @kochin_food_blogger
Talking to Slurrp, Kochin Food Blogger’s Minar Majeed said that pearl spot aka Karimeen literally have the heart of people in Kerala and is the main star in seafood. He said that Meenchatti Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Aluva, Kerala. “It provides a comfortable and air-conditioned dining area for the customers. This ensures that you can enjoy your meal in a relaxed atmosphere while relishing the authentic taste of Kerala’s seafood cuisine. So, if you’re in the area and craving mouthwatering Karimeen Pollichathu, Meenchatti Restaurant is a must-visit destination for a memorable dining experience”.
Image credits: @kochin_food_blogger
Price for two: Rs 300 (approx.)
Address: First floor Surya Square Near mangalapuzha bridge, Aluva
Timings: 8 am to 12 midnight
3. Periyar Restaurant
Recommended by: @kochi_fodiees
Known for serving the best Karimeen Pollichathu in the region, this place serves food at reasonable and affordable prices. This place is known for serving delicious non-vegetarian dishes, especially fish. All the Karimeen Pollichathu lovers should definitely visit this place at least once.
Price for two: Rs 300 (approx.)
Address: Edapally Panvel Highway, Cheranalloor, Near Periyar River Bridge Sunday Holiday (Cochin), Near St. Mary's Church, Kochi
Timings: 10 am to 11:30 pm
4. Grand Pavilion
Recommended by: Foodie Kochi @foodexplorerkochi
Foodie Kochi’s George Oommen Kalamannil said that the fish served here is fresh and marinated with a lip-smacking masala, that perfectly blends with the aroma of the wrapped banana leaf. This is one of the kind dishes that leaves a lasting impression and makes you crave for more, every time you pass through MG Road. I would surely recommend this place for Karimeen Pollichathu”, he added.
Price for two: Rs 1400 (approx.)
Address: Grand Pavillion, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Ernakulam South
Timings: 12 noon – 4:30 pm & 6:15pm – 10:30pm
5. Chala Kada
Recommended by: Kochin Food Blogger @kochin_food_blogger
While talking to Slurrp, Kochin Food Blogger’s Minar said, “Chala Kada, located behind the high court, is a popular establishment known for serving the best sardine fry with meals. The name “Chala Kada” translates to “Sardine Shop” in English, highlighting the specialty of the restaurant. This eatery has gained immense popularity due to its focus on sardine-based dishes”. He added that the menu at Chala Kada predominantly features sardine as the main seafood option. “Chala Kada a go-to spot for those who appreciate this particular seafood delicacy”, he concluded.
Price for two: Rs 350 (approx.)
Address: Magalavanam Encroach, Mathai Majooran Road, Behind Kerala high Court, Ernākulam
Timings: 12 noon to 4 pm
6. Padippura Toddy Shop
Recommended by Cochin Food Diaries @ cochinfooddiaries
Padippura Toddy shop is known for serving the best Karimeen Pollichathu in the region. Jobin John from Cochin Food Diaries told that the fish they use are super fresh catch of the day and also the masala that is used is subtle yet packs a punch. He added that sweetness of the onion paired with the spiciness of the chili and crunch of cashews does an explosion of flavours in your mouth. Even though these places are toddy shops, they are family friendly and give out the vibe of local Kerala cuisine with each bite.
Price for two: Rs 500 (approx.)
Address: Near IOC Plant, T.S.No.9, Patham Mile, Udayamperoor
Timings: 11 am to 7 pm
7. OMKV Food Village
Recommended by: Cochin Food Bites @ cochin_food_bites_
OMKV food village offers a huge variety of sea food dishes and Meen Pollichathu is their specialty. They also have gems like Meen Mutta Roast, Chemeen Fry, Fish Curry and Crab Roast etc. If you are looking to visit a place with a peaceful atmosphere and delicious food, you must visit OMKV Food Village.
Price for two: Rs 600 (approx.)
Address: Kumbalangi Park, Under Kumbalangi Bridge, North Kumbalangi
Timings: 4 pm to 11 pm
8.Nettor Toddy Shop
Recomennded by: Cochin Food Diaries @ cochinfooddiaries
Located in Nettor, this place serves super fresh fish and a flavourful masala to cook Karimeen Pollichathu. Despite this place being a toddy shop, these places are good for families and also pocket friendly.
Price for two: Rs 500 (approx.)
Address: Nettor Palli Nettor, Kanayannur
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm
9. Cheenavala
Recommended by: Cochin Food Bites @ cochin_food_bites_
Cheenavala in Edappally is popular in region for its sea-food dishes. Karimeen pollichathu here is made using fresh fish and aromatic spices. The ambiance of this place is also great and if you are a seafood lover, you must head to this place when in Kochi.
Price for two: Rs 1000 (approx.)
Address: National Highway Bypass, Ernakulam, Edappally
Timings: 12 am to 11 pm
10. Paragon
Recommended by: Foodie Kochi @foodexplorerkochi
While talking to Slurrp, George Oommen Kalamannil from Foodie Kochi told that said the Karimeen Pollichathu is among the specialties of this restaurant. Once you taste this dish here, there is no looking back.
Price for two: Rs 1000 (approx.)
Address: Lullu shopping mall, Edapally
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm
So, when visiting Kochi, keep this guide handy!
