🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 A Hidden Gem Right Outside Periyar Tiger Reserve – A Must-Visit in Thekkady!
During our recent trip to Thekkady, we had the pleasure of dining at Periyar Tiger Cafe Restaurant, located conveniently near the entrance of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. And let me tell you — it was one of the culinary highlights of our trip!
We were four people and decided to try a mix of traditional and unique dishes. Our order included:
Chicken Chittinadu – Rich, spicy, and deeply flavorful. The masala was well-balanced, the chicken cooked to perfection, and the dish was exactly what you'd hope for in an authentic South Indian preparation.
Mushroom Masala – A vegetarian surprise! Creamy, aromatic, and full of earthy mushroom goodness. It paired beautifully with the butter naan we ordered on the side.
Kashmiri Kahwa – A delightful twist to our meal. This fragrant tea with saffron and spices was soothing and refreshing after the heavier dishes.
House Herbal Water – Something very unique to the place. It’s warm, infused with herbs, and makes you feel like you’re treating your body to something good while enjoying a meal.
✨ What Stood Out:
Incredible Variety of Food The menu at Periyar Tiger Cafe is incredibly diverse. Whether you’re craving Kerala-style seafood, hearty North Indian curries, or simple tandoori breads — this place has it all. The fusion of local flavors with well-loved global classics is done seamlessly. It's perfect for groups with different food preferences.
Ambience & Location Situated just outside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the location couldn't be better. You walk in surrounded by lush greenery and a calm, peaceful vibe. The decor is simple yet welcoming, and the open-air seating gives you a break from stuffy indoor restaurants. You really feel connected to nature while enjoying your meal.
Quality & Presentation The food was not only delicious, but beautifully presented. Everything looked appetizing the moment it hit the table. You could tell the ingredients were fresh, the spices thoughtfully used, and the preparation handled by someone who respects the flavors of their region.
Warm & Efficient Service From the moment we entered, we were greeted warmly. The staff was helpful with recommendations and attentive throughout the meal, even though the place was quite busy. It’s rare to get such a personal touch in a tourist hotspot, but they nailed it.
🌿 Final Thoughts:
Periyar Tiger Cafe is more than just a restaurant — it’s an experience that complements your trip to Thekkady. After a morning safari or nature walk, this is the ideal place to sit down, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal rooted in Kerala’s culinary heritage.
If you’re planning to visit Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, don’t miss this restaurant. Whether you’re a foodie, a vegetarian, a meat-lover, or someone just looking for great tea and snacks — there’s something here for everyone.
Highly recommended. We’ll definitely return the next time we’re in...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Periyar Tiger Cafe Restaurant
Ambiance: 🌿🐯 The moment you step in, you're greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor is beautifully themed around wildlife and nature, with a touch of local charm. The seating arrangements are comfortable, and the lighting adds to the cozy feel.
Food Quality: 🍛🍴 The menu offers a diverse range of dishes, from traditional Kerala cuisine to continental options. We were a group of 8 and tried their Chapati, Porotta, Kerala Meals, Beef Roast, beef Fry, Chicken Fry, Chicken Noodles. The Beef Fry was over fried and the Chapati was a half cooked chapati heated in a tawa. Rest all dihes we tried were good.
Service: 🙌🍽️ The staff were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. Our server took the time to explain the dishes and make recommendations based on our preferences. The service was prompt without feeling rushed, which made for a relaxed dining experience.
Value for Money: 💸👍 Considering the quality of food, service, and ambiance, I found the prices to be a bit over rated. I felt that the food was very costly.
Location: 📍 Periyar Tiger Cafe is conveniently located, making it easily accessible. It's a great spot for both locals and tourists. Though there is enough space infront, finding a spot to park your car may be little bit difficult due to the rush.
Overall, Periyar Tiger Cafe Restaurant is Ok. I do recommend it to anyone as there aren't any better...
Read morePeriyar Tiger Cafe, Thekkady
Mutton Biryani Flavor: The mutton biryani at Periyar Tiger Cafe is often praised for its rich, aromatic spices and tender meat. The use of traditional Kerala spices gives it a distinctive and authentic taste. Portion Size: The portion sizes are generally considered generous, making it a satisfying meal. Presentation: Presentation is typically well-received, with the biryani served in a way that highlights the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Kerala Special Thali Variety: The Kerala special thali offers a wide variety of dishes, showcasing the diverse flavors of Kerala cuisine. This often includes items like rice, sambar, rasam, various curries, pickles, and a sweet dish. Taste: Customers frequently mention the authenticity and deliciousness of the thali. The balance of flavors and the freshness of ingredients are highlights. Value for Money: The thali is often noted for being a good value for money, providing a comprehensive meal experience.
General Impressions Ambiance: The restaurant's ambiance is typically described as pleasant and inviting, fitting well with its location near the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Service: Service quality varies, but generally, the staff is noted to be friendly and accommodating. Cleanliness: Cleanliness and hygiene standards are usually high, with the restaurant following safety...
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