Hotel Mahalaxmi Malpe — Restaurant in Karnataka

Review by Team Ghatotkatcha

If you're in Udupi, Fish meals or Meenu Oota is mandatory. So, in our search for good Meenu Oota places in Udupi and Malpe, which is underrated and very much better than the popular eateries out there.

At @hotelmahalaxmi_malpe , the meal costs ₹60, where you get unlimited amount of Rice, meenu saaru or fish saru made with the regular bhootai or sardine, southe kayi palya or the Mangalore cucumber palya. They bring out two huge trays of fresh fishes rawa fry and tawa fry, you can choose whatever you want from the lot, the waiter who carries the tray will yell loudly and name every fish out there. So, we did not go with the regular fish, we had Tawa fry of Melu, bayya and Yeri. Melu is a butterfish and we loved it, it just melts in the mouth, this melu fish with a slight coat of the red masala absorbs well and looks light on the outside. Bayya is a scaly and thorny fish, yet it has nice flesh of it's own, it's for a regular fish eater. Yeri is a small fish, which is very soft and cooking that is slightly difficult, yet the people at Mahalaxmi nailed it. Yeri has a special distinguished taste where, the skin is also elegant. The masala used for the tawa fry is killer, their masala is simple yet difficult to crack. Chillies, oil and fish in a marinade. It's a pescatarian's paradise

Oh we had the prawn kabab too and that's skippable. These fishes are priced differently everyday based on the price in the harbour. They are fresh catch...

I rate the review 5 stars when i eat my favorite dish twice.

Restaurant is located on a small lane that is close to central shopping area of the town. Driving a car will be kind of challenge to this place. Parking - no problem n ample space available. But we called for Auto rishaw. After getting down from rickshaw, a big board mentioning Hotel Mahalakshmi at the entrance of restaurant. Some how we come to conclusion that the food here will be great by looking at the name board or facade of building or cleanliness of the surroundings. Once entered inside, even though it is a typical restaurant the people welcomed us and looking at our group they guided us to the table and made us comfortable. (The place is famous among locals and busy during lunch time) They had only Veg meals and varieties of Marinated fishes. For the first time in my life looking at so many options i felt like i was swimming among the fishes. We ordered 3-4 kinds of fishes to fry (less spiced fish for children). After gobling fish after fish the waiter says we also have Prawns fry. He gave us sample to taste it. OMG that was amazing no its heaven for sea food lovers.

I will definitely visit again. Thank you god for helping us...

This restaurant is an absolute gem for seafood lovers! The food was outstanding, especially the Anjal Rava Fry — crisp, perfectly spiced, and simply delicious. They offer a wide variety of fresh fish, and each type comes with 3–4 different preparation styles. The quality is top-notch, and the flavors are truly authentic coastal fare.

What stood out was the simplicity of the place. It’s not fancy, but the focus is clearly on good food, reasonable pricing, and warm service. The staff were attentive, and the owner himself was extremely helpful — patiently explaining the different fish types and how each can be prepared. It really enhances the experience, especially for first-timers.

One unique aspect is that they bring out a large platter of raw fish for you to choose from, which makes the experience interactive and fun. It’s hard to say no once you see the options laid out!

They also serve rice water (pez), refreshing buttermilk, and the local lime soda, which is a must-try. Parking is ample, which is always a bonus.

Now I understand why this place is rated so highly — simple setup, great seafood, and a homely vibe. Highly recommended for a true Mangalorean...