Visited Nellikka Restaurant in Kochi today with one intention — to enjoy a simple bowl of Kanji. What I experienced was so much more.
The moment I stepped in, I was struck by the earthy charm of the place. The rustic interiors, clay pots, wooden furniture, and the handwritten wall signs instantly transported me to a simpler time. It's not just a restaurant — it’s a nostalgic journey back to the roots, exactly as their tagline promises.
I went for their Signature Nellikka Special Kanji — a hearty, creamy rice porridge mixed with soft tapioca, shredded carrots, onions, and a generous dose of curd. It was served unlimited and accompanied by a wholesome spread: thoran, chammanthi, pickle, and crispy papadam. Each item complemented the Kanji beautifully, elevating a humble dish into a full, satisfying meal.
To complete the experience, I added their beef fry — and wow, it was next level! The meat was soft, perfectly spiced, and full of flavor. It paired wonderfully with the kanji, adding that punch of protein and heat that made the meal unforgettable.
What stood out most was the consistency and simplicity — everything was served with care, authenticity, and no compromise on taste. The service was warm and efficient, and the ambiance quietly reminded me of family kitchens and village homes.
🌾 Why You Should Visit Nellikka:
For comfort food done right — no pretension, just tradition.
For the Kanji — filling, nostalgic, and unlimited.
For the beef fry — a must-try side that balances the meal beautifully.
For the ambiance — rustic, earthy, and true to Kerala roots.
A wholesome experience — simple food, soulful setting, and honest hospitality. If you want to experience the heart of Kerala on a plate, Nellikka is the place. Will...
Read moreNellikka: A Kanji Delight with Delicious Sidekicks
My wife and I just had a fantastic lunch at Nellikka, and let me tell you, it was a total treat! We dove headfirst into their Kanji specialties, and both the classic Thairu Kanji and the intriguing Special Kanji exceeded our expectations. The Thairu Kanji was a creamy, refreshing burst of flavor, while the Special Kanji offered a more complex, layered experience that really tantalized our taste buds.
For a meaty counterpoint, we ordered the Beef Fry and the Kozhuva Fry. The beef was cooked to absolute perfection – tender, juicy, and infused with just the right amount of spices. It practically melted in my mouth! The Kozhuva Fry was equally impressive, though not in the way we expected. It had smaller fishes in it, rather than having normal sized kozhuva.
The service at Nellikka was top-notch. They were attentive and friendly, even refilling my bowl of Kanji with a smile (because, let's be honest, one bowl simply wasn't enough!). The ambiance was also delightful – warm, inviting, and with a touch of local charm.
A quick word of caution – Nellikka gets quite popular, so if you're aiming for a lunchtime seat, plan to arrive by 12:30pm. But trust me, the wait is absolutely worth it!
Overall, Nellikka is a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Keralan cuisine. The Kanji is a true star, the side dishes are fantastic, and the service and ambiance are top-notch. Just remember to come...
Read moreThis restaurant is famous for its main simple recipe called Kanji (Porridge). One of the common Kerala home dish. The total making cost is very cheap. But the main attraction is how they present a simple common recipe in the most attractive and innovative way. They introduced some kanji varieties in addition with simple side dishes ( are familiar and common for every Kerala person). Thenga chamanthi (coconut chammanthi) is an example. Kozhuva fry ( is one kind of fish fry), Kakka roast, and Kerala meal Side curries are also provided with kanji. Different kanjies (Porridge) like podiyari kanji, Pazhamkanji, Paalkanji are some examples. Each dish is served in clay Pottery. The price is a bit high but the ambience and hygiene is not compromised. Most shops where you can get porridge are dirty compromised. This restaurant would be a good option in this case.
There is no special parking space. You have to park your vehicles on the roadside, at your own risk. To find the exact location is a little difficult. Most of the visitors are students. Most of the orders are taken online. These are some facts I can observed. If you have some fever and you want some food from outside this is the good choice. Both Swiggi and Zomato are attached, so you can easily order through by online.
The dining services are average. You can visit with your family for...
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