Kalavara Kitchen — Restaurant in Mumbai

The place is humble, almost like walking into a friend’s home back in Kerala It’s real. It’s warm. It’s comforting.

Food (5/5)

I went all in — and trust me, this is the kind of place where you should.

Chicken Ularthiyathu – Absolutely divine! Tender chicken, roasted with crushed pepper, curry leaves, and coconut bits. I could smell it before it reached my table. Spicy, smoky, and perfect with the parotta. Appam and Mutton Stew – The appams were soft at the center and crisp at the edges, and the stew? Oh god. Creamy coconut milk, subtly spiced with cardamom and cloves, and melt-in-the-mouth mutton. Prawns Pollichathu – Served in banana leaves, this was the surprise of the night. Perfectly marinated prawns, slightly charred on the edges, bursting with flavor. Matta Rice with Sambhar, Thoran, and Meen Curry – Honestly felt like a Onam sadya was served just for me. Comfort food at its finest. Payasam (Ada Pradhaman) – Rich, jaggery-based, and heartwarming. The kind that makes you close your eyes and smile. Service (4.5/5)

Very polite staff. They don't hover, but they're always attentive. One of them even explained the dishes to a couple at the next table who were trying Kerala food for the first time.

Pricing (4/5)

Reasonable. For the kind of authenticity and portion sizes, I felt it was totally worth it. A full hearty meal for two cost us about ₹500–750, and we were stuffed and happy.

Overall Vibe

If you’re a Malayali living in Mumbai, or even just a lover of regional Indian cuisines, Kalavara is more than just a restaurant — it’s a bridge to home. Every bite felt...

The entrance was quite busy, with many people standing and chatting — it seems to be a popular evening hangout spot. Inside, the seating is simple and no-frills, with wooden tables and benches. There's a wash basin available.

The staff were friendly. However, not all seemed well-informed about the menu items, which could be a bit of a drawback if you're looking for recommendations or ingredient details.

I ordered Rajavinte Chattichoru and Malabar Chicken Korma , both of which had strong, authentic Kerala flavors. That said, I found both dishes a bit too spicy for my personal taste.

A concern I had was related to how the cleaning mop was stored alongside banana leaves. Something they need to change.

Overall, this place is great for solo meals or hanging out with friends. I wouldn’t recommend it for a date. I will certainly visit again to try the other dishes. Yet to find my favorite.

Rajavinte Chattichoru - 3/5 (Multiple dishes in a bowl instead of a bannana leaf. Quantity sufficient for 3 people. The taste of tamrind was too strong) Malabar Chicken Kurma - 4/5...

I had ordered their Potichor, which is like a wholesome Kerala-style meal packed in a banana leaf.

I had ordered three types — veg, chicken, and egg.

The quantity is really generous for the price, one Potichor is easily enough for two people, especially if you’re someone who doesn’t eat too much rice. A small suggestion to make the experience would be to give some more Sambhar as the rice gets a bit dry. Also, adding a pappadam on the side would make the meal absolutely perfect!

Overall a good dish to explore Kerala style meal 👍🏻

PS. The content of Potichor is Rice, Beans Sabji, Raw Banana Chana Sabji, Pickle, Coconut Based Chutney, Protein of your choice(Omelette or Chicken Fry pieces), Sambhar, Aviyal and curd...