Explore the Best Restaurants in Punalur | Delicious Food & Great Ambience

Punalur, nestled along the banks of the Kallada River in the Kollam district of Kerala, is a charming hill-town that beautifully blends nature, heritage, and tranquility. Often called the “Gateway to the Western Ghats,” Punalur is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and misty landscapes that make it a perfect escape for nature lovers. The town’s name — derived from “Punal” (water) and “Ooru” (place) — aptly reflects its close connection with rivers and greenery.

Rich in history and culture, Punalur is known for its iconic suspension bridge built during the British era — a remarkable architectural marvel that still stands as a proud symbol of the town. The region also holds significance as one of Kerala’s earliest industrial hubs, once famous for its paper mills and plantations. Temples, churches, and mosques coexist harmoniously here, showcasing the town’s cultural diversity and communal harmony.

Beyond its scenic and historical appeal, Punalur serves as a gateway to some of Kerala’s most captivating hill destinations like Thenmala, Aryankavu, and the enchanting forest routes leading to Tamil Nadu.

Food in Punalur is a delightful reflection of Kerala’s authentic flavors. From spicy fish curries and traditional sadhya meals to Arabian-inspired dishes and refreshing local snacks, the town offers a variety of dining experiences. Whether you’re relishing a hearty meal at a family-run restaurant or grabbing a quick bite at a roadside eatery, Punalur promises a warm and flavorful culinary journey that truly captures the essence of Kerala’s soul.

Veg Restaurants in Punalur

1. Veg Palace Restaurant and Catering Service

Image Credits: San Jose

Overview
Veg Palace is one of Punalur’s most trusted vegetarian restaurants, known for its authentic South Indian flavors and professional catering services. With a ★4.4/5 rating, it’s a favorite among locals who love pure vegetarian meals and homely dining.

Ambience
The restaurant offers a clean and peaceful environment with simple interiors that radiate warmth and comfort. Ideal for families, travelers, and daily diners, it provides a relaxed setting to enjoy wholesome meals.

Food Specialities
Known for Kerala sadhya, dosa varieties, paneer butter masala, and North Indian thalis. Their ghee roast and traditional vegetarian meals are must-tries.

Staff & Service
Courteous and efficient staff ensure prompt service and maintain excellent hygiene standards. Guests appreciate the homely hospitality and consistency in food quality.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway, catering
• Price Range: ₹150–₹300 per person
• Parking: Available
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10:00 PM
• Popular For: Kerala meals, dosa, catering

2. Sri Saravana Bhavan

Image Credits: Sri saravana bhavan

Overview
Sri Saravana Bhavan brings the authentic taste of Tamil Nadu’s vegetarian cuisine to Punalur, offering classic South Indian dishes at great value. Rated ★4.2/5, it’s a beloved choice for breakfast and traditional meals.

Ambience
The interiors are bright, clean, and family-friendly, reflecting the simplicity of a traditional South Indian eatery. Its calm and well-maintained atmosphere makes every meal pleasant and satisfying.

Food Specialities
Famous for idli, vada, ghee roast, poori masala, and mini tiffin sets. The aromatic filter coffee is a customer favorite.

Staff & Service
The team is friendly and efficient, ensuring quick service during busy hours. Cleanliness and consistency in taste make it a reliable stop for vegetarian dining.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹100–₹250 per person
• Parking: Limited
• Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM
• Popular For: Breakfast, tiffin, filter coffee

Multi-Cuisine (Veg & Non-Veg) restaurants in Punalur

1. Royal Thai Multi-Cuisine Restaurant

Image Credits: Shebin Shajahan

Overview
Royal Thai is one of Punalur’s most stylish dining spots, offering a rich mix of Thai, Chinese, Arabian, and Indian dishes. With a ★4.3/5 rating, it’s ideal for families and those who enjoy global flavors in a modern setting.

Ambience
Elegant interiors with mood lighting and comfortable seating create a fine-dining experience. The contemporary design and soothing decor make it perfect for special dinners or business gatherings.

Food Specialities
Highlights include Thai noodles, biryani, grilled chicken, seafood, and shawarma platters. Their Thai curry and tandoor dishes are particularly popular.

Staff & Service
The staff are attentive, professional, and quick to serve. They ensure a pleasant dining experience with courteous behavior and clean presentation.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway, delivery
• Price Range: ₹250–₹500 per person
• Parking: Available
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Popular For: Thai dishes, seafood, fine dining

2. MOJO II – The Magic Spell

Image Credits: Mojo

Overview
MOJO II is a trendy cafe-style restaurant that perfectly blends modern flavors with a creative touch. Rated ★4.4/5, it’s a local favorite for fusion food, desserts, and cozy hangouts.

Ambience
The café features artistic decor, warm lighting, and comfortable seating that create a stylish and inviting vibe. It’s a great spot for casual meetups, celebrations, and evening coffee.

Food Specialities
Serves Continental dishes, burgers, pasta, sizzling brownies, and mocktails. Their shawarma and milkshakes are particularly loved by youngsters.

Staff & Service
Friendly staff and fast service make every visit enjoyable. They maintain cleanliness and ensure that dishes are well-presented and flavorful.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹200–₹400 per person
• Parking: Limited
• Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Popular For: Burgers, pasta, desserts

3. The LemonLeaf Fine-Dine Restaurant

Image Credits: Lemon Leaf

Overview
The LemonLeaf stands out as Punalur’s most elegant fine-dining destination, known for its premium interiors and multi-cuisine menu. With a ★4.5/5 rating, it’s a top choice for family dinners and special occasions.

Ambience
Beautifully designed with soft lighting and refined decor, the restaurant offers a luxurious yet relaxed setting. The calm, air-conditioned dining area enhances the experience for guests of all ages.

Food Specialities
Features biryanis, tandoor items, grilled chicken, and seafood delicacies. Their lemon butter fish and alfaham are highly recommended.

Staff & Service
Polite and well-trained staff ensure smooth service and attention to every table. Guests appreciate the hospitality and premium dining feel.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway, delivery
• Price Range: ₹300–₹600 per person
• Parking: Available
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Popular For: Alfaham, seafood, fine dining

4. Javees Cinema Restaurant

Image Credits: Javees

Overview
Javees Cinema Restaurant offers delicious meals right next to Punalur’s iconic theatre, making it a go-to for movie lovers. Rated ★4.2/5, it combines taste and convenience in one spot.

Ambience
Casual and spacious interiors make it a lively place for families and groups. The seating arrangement is comfortable and ideal for both quick bites and full meals.

Food Specialities
Serves Kerala, Chinese, and fast-food dishes such as fried rice, shawarma, and biryani.

Staff & Service
The service is quick, and the staff are helpful and accommodating. They maintain cleanliness and ensure food is served promptly.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹200–₹400 per person
• Parking: Theatre parking available
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Popular For: Quick bites, biryani, family dining

5. Kaymas Restaurant

Image Credits: Baneesh

Overview
Kaymas is a family-friendly restaurant serving Kerala, Chinese, and Arabic favorites at affordable prices. With a ★4.2/5 rating, it’s known for hearty portions and home-style cooking.

Ambience
The restaurant features neat, spacious interiors with simple decor and comfortable seating. The calm, family-oriented environment makes it ideal for group dining.

Food Specialities
Specialties include chicken biryani, beef roast, Kerala meals, and fried rice.

Staff & Service
The team is polite, well-coordinated, and ensures timely service even during rush hours. Cleanliness and food consistency make it a local favorite.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹200–₹400 per person
• Parking: Available
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Popular For: Kerala meals, biryani, family dining

6. Food Village

Image Credits: Malavika Thampi

Overview
Food Village is a multi-cuisine restaurant offering a variety of Kerala, Chinese, and Arabian dishes. Rated ★4.2/5, it’s known for its flavorful food and good service.

Ambience
Spacious and neatly arranged interiors create a relaxed and welcoming feel. The lighting and layout make it suitable for families and large groups.

Food Specialities
Top picks include mandi, biryani, alfaham, and Kerala-style curries.

Staff & Service
Courteous staff ensure clean tables and timely food service. They’re known for maintaining consistent taste and quality.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹200–₹400 per person
• Parking: Available
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Popular For: Mandi, biryani, Arabic dishes

Traditional Kerala Restaurants in Punalur

1. Village Kitchen

Image Credits: Nandhu K S

Overview
Village Kitchen is known for its traditional Kerala meals served with homely flavors and generous portions. Rated ★4.3/5, it’s a great place to experience authentic local cuisine.

Ambience
The interiors have a rustic charm with wooden accents and a cozy, village-style feel. The peaceful setup makes dining here a nostalgic experience.

Food Specialities
Chatti choru, fish curry, tapioca with beef, and kappa biryani are crowd favorites.

Staff & Service
Friendly staff serve food with care and warmth, reflecting Kerala’s hospitality. Service is quick, and cleanliness is well maintained.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹150–₹350 per person
• Parking: Limited
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Popular For: Chatti choru, Kerala meals, seafood

Fast Food Restaurants in Punalur

1. Hungry Hen, Punalur

Image Credits: Dheeraj S Dharman

Overview
Hungry Hen is a lively fast-food restaurant loved for its grilled chicken, burgers, and shawarma. Rated ★4.1/5, it’s a go-to hangout for the young crowd.

Ambience
The bright and modern interiors create a cheerful, casual vibe perfect for quick dining. The compact layout keeps the space cozy and inviting.

Food Specialities
Signature dishes include fried chicken, burgers, shawarma, and sandwiches.

Staff & Service
Staff are efficient and polite, ensuring fast delivery and consistent taste. Service is friendly and well-organized even during peak hours.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹150–₹300 per person
• Parking: Limited
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Popular For: Shawarma, fried chicken, burgers

2. The AFC – American Fried Chicken

Image Credits: Fr. Sijo K Samual

Overview
AFC serves crispy, flavorful fried chicken and American-style fast food at budget-friendly prices. Rated ★4.0/5, it’s a hit among students and quick-bite lovers.

Ambience
The restaurant has a compact, bright setting with cheerful interiors perfect for casual dining. The upbeat design gives it a trendy fast-food outlet feel.

Food Specialities
Crispy fried chicken, burgers, wraps, and fries are customer favorites.

Staff & Service
The service is quick and efficient, with friendly staff who handle orders professionally. Cleanliness and consistency are well-maintained.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway
• Price Range: ₹150–₹300 per person
• Parking: Limited
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Popular For: Fried chicken, burgers, wraps

3. SFC Fried Chicken

Image Credits: SFC

Overview
SFC Punalur offers crunchy fried chicken and fast-food favorites, giving an American twist to local dining. With a ★4.1/5 rating, it’s a favorite for families and youngsters.

Ambience
The interiors are bright, modern, and neatly arranged, creating a casual and lively atmosphere. It’s a convenient place for quick bites and takeaway orders.

Food Specialities
Signature fried chicken, shawarma, burgers, and combo meals.

Staff & Service
Staff are welcoming and quick to serve, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free dining experience. Hygiene and consistency are well maintained across visits.

Other Details

• Dining Options: Dine-in, takeaway, delivery
• Price Range: ₹150–₹300 per person
• Parking: Limited
• Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Popular For: Fried chicken, shawarma, burgers

Punalur is a true delight for food lovers, offering a rich blend of traditional Kerala cuisine, spicy curries, savory biryanis, and Arabian-inspired dishes. From cozy local eateries serving homely meals to stylish restaurants and family-friendly dining spots, every place in Punalur captures the authentic taste and warmth of Kerala’s hospitality. The town’s food scene beautifully mirrors its natural charm — simple, soulful, and full of flavor.

At MyKeralaFood, we take pride in bringing you the finest culinary experiences from every part of Kerala — and Punalur stands out as a destination where taste meets tradition. Our curated guide to the best restaurants in Punalur helps you uncover local favorites, enjoy authentic flavors, and relish memorable dining moments. Whether you’re a resident exploring new tastes or a traveler passing through this scenic town, let MyKeralaFood be your companion in discovering the true flavor of Punalur — vibrant, delicious, and deeply rooted in Kerala’s culinary heritage.