Fort Kochi is more than just a historic coastal town-it’s a melting pot of cultures, flavours, and cuisines. From its Portuguese colonial past to its vibrant modern food scene, Fort Kochi restaurants offer something for every palate.
Whether you’re craving seafood fresh off the boat, traditional Kerala meals, or international fusion fare, the city’s restaurant scene delivers a delicious experience.
1. Jetty at Forte Kochi
Nestled within the heritage-style Forte Kochi Hotel, Jetty is a celebration of colonial charm and coastal cuisine. This restaurant stands out with its elegant decor, romantic lighting, and a curated menu that reflects both the past and present of Kerala’s culinary legacy.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Jetty combines a tranquil setting with a menu steeped in tradition and innovation. The atmosphere is intimate, making it ideal for couples or those seeking a refined dining experience.
Must Try Food
Try the traditional Kerala fish curry served with red rice, or the grilled tiger prawns marinated in a coconut-mustard rub. Their signature tenderloin steak is a surprise standout.
How Expensive Is It?
Expect to spend around ₹1,500-₹2,000 for two people.
2. Seagull Restaurant
Located along the waterfront, Seagull is a favourite among both locals and tourists. Its rustic charm, open-air seating, and live music on select nights make it one of the most atmospheric spots in Fort Kochi.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Dining with a view of the harbour as the sun sets is hard to beat. It’s also one of the few places where you can order your fish fresh and have it cooked to your liking.
Must Try Food
Go for the grilled snapper, spicy prawn masala, or Kerala-style beef fry. Pair it with a cold beer for the full experience.
How Expensive Is It?
Meals average around ₹1,000 for two people.
3. Ginger House Restaurant
Part of the Ginger House Museum Hotel in Mattancherry, this unique restaurant offers diners a chance to eat surrounded by antique art and relics. The waterside setting adds to its peaceful, upscale vibe.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Combining museum aesthetics with world-class food, this place is perfect for culture lovers and those who appreciate fine details.
Must Try Food
Try the kingfish steaks, ginger prawns, or Kerala thali. The banana fritters with jaggery sauce are a must for dessert.
How Expensive Is It?
Expect to spend about ₹1,200-₹1,500 for two.
4. Kashi Art Café
Located in the heart of Fort Kochi, Kashi Art Café is one of the area’s most iconic spots. Known for its artistic interiors and sun-dappled courtyard, this café is a go-to for creatives, expats, and foodies alike.
Why It’s a Great Choice
This isn’t just a café-it’s a community hub. With rotating art exhibits and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s ideal for a slow breakfast or an afternoon coffee.
Must Try Food
The eggs on toast with tomato basil sauce, chocolate cake, and cold coffee are crowd favourites.
How Expensive Is It?
Roughly ₹600-₹800 for two.
5. Cochin Fort Restaurant
Set on Bellar Road, this restaurant merges tradition with modern design. With its open-air wooden structure and fresh seafood display, guests can choose their catch before it’s cooked to order.
Why It’s a Great Choice
You get a blend of theatre and dining here-selecting your seafood, watching it prepared, and enjoying it under the stars.
Must Try Food
Lobster in butter garlic sauce, fish pollichathu, and Malabar parotta with chicken roast.
How Expensive Is It?
Around ₹1,200 for two, depending on your seafood selection.
6. Fusion Bay
Fusion Bay is a hidden gem offering South Indian flavours with a creative twist. Tucked away near the Parade Ground, this restaurant has earned a loyal following thanks to its flavour-packed dishes and cosy atmosphere.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Run by a passionate team, Fusion Bay delivers consistent quality and a homely feel. The focus on family recipes adds authenticity to every bite.
Must Try Food
The prawn mango curry, fish moilee, and traditional Syrian beef curry are must-orders.
How Expensive Is It?
Meals for two average around ₹1,000-₹1,300.
7. The Asian Kitchen by Tokyo Bay
Bringing a touch of Japan to Fort Kochi, The Asian Kitchen by Tokyo Bay is a sleek and modern restaurant specialising in sushi, sashimi, and Asian fusion dishes.
Why It’s a Great Choice
It’s rare to find quality Japanese food in Kerala, and this restaurant pulls it off exceptionally well. The minimalist interiors and excellent service make it a standout.
Must Try Food
Sushi platters, teriyaki chicken, and seafood ramen bowls.
How Expensive Is It?
Expect ₹1,800-₹2,200 for two people.
8. David Hall Gallery and Café
Set inside a beautifully restored Dutch bungalow, this café doubles as a gallery and cultural venue. The spacious garden and vibrant art displays make it one of Fort Kochi’s most charming spots.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Combining creativity and culinary treats, it’s ideal for brunch or a lazy afternoon break surrounded by trees and paintings.
Must Try Food
Try the wood-fired seafood pizza or the spiced chicken sandwich. Their carrot cake is also worth the hype.
How Expensive Is It?
Around ₹700-₹1,000 for two.
9. Teapot Café
This quirky café, filled with vintage teapots and cosy nooks, is a tea lover’s paradise. Located in a quiet lane near Princess Street, it’s known for its calm vibe and British-era decor.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Perfect for travellers wanting a peaceful escape from the sun and the crowds. It’s also one of the best places to enjoy a proper cup of tea.
Must Try Food
Chicken sandwich, apple pie, and of course, a pot of masala chai or Earl Grey.
How Expensive Is It?
Expect to spend around ₹500-₹700 for two.
10. Loving Earth Café
One of the few fully plant-based restaurants in Fort Kochi, Loving Earth is set in a lush garden and offers a menu focused on organic and vegan ingredients.
Why It’s a Great Choice
It’s the perfect retreat for health-conscious diners, with a relaxing environment that feels more like a wellness retreat than a café.
Must Try Food
Vegan wraps, smoothie bowls, and cashew-based desserts. The tofu coconut curry is outstanding.
How Expensive Is It?
Meals range from ₹800-₹1,000 for two.
11. Lila Art Café
Housed in a 450-year-old Portuguese building, Lila Art Café is a stunning space where heritage architecture meets gourmet dining. The interiors feature exposed wooden beams, a central courtyard, and artistic decor.
Why It’s a Great Choice
It’s equally great for a quiet lunch or an Instagram-worthy dinner. The carefully curated menu offers international dishes with local touches.
Must Try Food
Beef steak sandwich, cheesy fries, and their tropical fruit sorbet.
How Expensive Is It?
₹900-₹1,200 for two.
12. Malabar Junction
Located within the boutique Malabar House hotel, this elegant restaurant offers a fine-dining take on Kerala cuisine, with soft lighting and live music creating a romantic ambience.
Why It’s a Great Choice
It’s a top pick for special occasions, thanks to its intimate setting and polished service.
Must Try Food
Duck roast, Meen Molee (fish curry in coconut milk), and tender coconut mousse.
How Expensive Is It?
Premium pricing-₹2,000+ for two.
13. Rasoi Fort Kochi
This colourful North Indian restaurant brings the flavours of Punjab and Rajasthan to Fort Kochi. With bright interiors and friendly staff, it offers a vibrant dining experience.
Why It’s a Great Choice
If you’re craving a rich butter chicken or a sizzling tandoori platter, this is the place to be.
Must Try Food
Paneer tikka, chicken biryani, and garlic naan with dal makhani.
How Expensive Is It?
₹800-₹1,000 for two.
Tips for Dining in Fort Kochi
Best time to dine: Late afternoons or early evenings for great lighting and less crowd.
Reservations: Recommended for dinner at popular spots like Seagull, Jetty, and Malabar Junction.
Cuisine diversity: While seafood is dominant, vegetarian, vegan, and international options are readily available.
Tipping etiquette: Not mandatory but 5-10% is appreciated for good service.
Dine Out in Fort Kochi
From backwater-side cafes to elegant fine dining, Fort Kochi’s restaurant scene reflects the city’s cosmopolitan roots and culinary diversity. Whether you’re here for the seafood, the art cafés, or vegan retreats, there’s something for every taste and every traveller.
Be sure to explore beyond the obvious, and let your tastebuds lead the way through this cultural and culinary gem of Kerala.
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