Here’s a detailed guide to the top 10 street food destinations in Kollam, Kerala. Kollam is not only known for its picturesque backwaters and beaches but also for its vibrant food scene. Street food is a great way to experience the local flavors of Kerala, and these spots offer the perfect opportunity to try some authentic Kerala snacks and street delicacies.
1. Chinnakada Street Food Corner
- Location: Chinnakada, Kollam
- What to Expect: This street food corner is located near the central Chinnakada area, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The place is lively, especially in the evenings, with food stalls offering a wide range of options.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Puttu with Kadala Curry: A Kerala breakfast dish of steamed rice cakes served with black chickpea curry.
- Kozhi Pathiri: Kerala-style flatbread served with spicy chicken curry.
- Shawarma: A Middle Eastern wrap, popular in Kollam’s street food scene.
- Best For: People looking for a mix of local Kerala dishes and international street food.
2. Kollam Municipal Market
- Location: Chinnakada, Kollam
- What to Expect: Kollam Municipal Market is a bustling place filled with local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and street food. It is one of the best spots to experience authentic Kerala snacks, from savory dosas to crispy vadas.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Samosas: Crispy and filled with spiced potatoes.
- Vada: A traditional fried snack made from lentils.
- Banana Fritters: Sweet and deep-fried banana slices.
- Best For: Those looking for traditional Kerala snacks in a busy local market atmosphere.
3. Kollam Beach Road
- Location: Kollam Beach Road, Kollam
- What to Expect: Kollam Beach Road is lined with vendors selling fresh seafood and fried snacks, making it an ideal location for enjoying street food while taking in the beautiful view of the beach.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Fish Fry: Freshly fried fish, usually served with rice or as a snack.
- Prawn Masala: Spicy prawns served with local bread or rice.
- Tapioca and Fish Curry: A traditional Kerala dish, where boiled tapioca is served with spicy fish curry.
- Best For: Seafood lovers looking to enjoy local snacks by the beach.
4. Thevally (Kollam)
- Location: Thevally, Kollam
- What to Expect: Thevally is another popular spot in Kollam, known for its quiet surroundings and local street food. The street vendors here offer fresh, delicious food at affordable prices.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Parotta with Beef Curry: Soft, flaky parotta served with a spicy beef curry.
- Fried Fish and Chips: Fresh fish fried crispy and served with a side of chips.
- Kachori: A deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
- Best For: Those looking for authentic Kerala street food in a peaceful, local setting.
5. Near Kollam Junction
- Location: Near Kollam Junction Railway Station
- What to Expect: The area around Kollam Junction is filled with local food stalls offering a wide variety of Kerala street food. It’s a great place to stop for a quick snack before or after taking a train, with plenty of options for everyone.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Chili Bajji: Green chilies stuffed with spiced potatoes and deep-fried.
- Pesarattu: A savory pancake made from green gram and served with chutney.
- Coconut Ladoo: A sweet dessert made with grated coconut and jaggery.
- Best For: Travelers and locals looking for a quick bite while waiting for a train or bus.
6. Kollam Bypass
- Location: Kollam Bypass
- What to Expect: Kollam Bypass is home to several food trucks and street food stalls that serve everything from sandwiches to fresh fruit chaat. It’s perfect for a quick bite while traveling or after a long day of sightseeing.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Chaat: Spicy, tangy, and sweet snacks like pani puri, bhel puri, and dahi puri.
- Sandwiches: Various options filled with cheese, vegetables, and meats.
- Crispy Chicken Wings: Fried chicken wings served with a spicy dipping sauce.
- Best For: Quick bites and snacks while on the move or for late-night cravings.
7. Ashtamudi Lake (Boat Jetty Area)
- Location: Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam
- What to Expect: The boat jetty area near Ashtamudi Lake is a serene spot for a relaxed snack break, with vendors offering fresh, local street food. The area is popular among tourists enjoying boat rides and those looking to take a break.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Kappa (Tapioca) with Fish Curry: A traditional dish of boiled tapioca served with spicy fish curry.
- Fish Cutlets: Fried fish patties made from mashed fish, spices, and breadcrumbs.
- Kerala Samosa: Samosas filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
- Best For: Tourists who want to enjoy authentic Kerala street food while enjoying the views of Ashtamudi Lake.
8. Thirumullavaram Beach
- Location: Thirumullavaram Beach, Kollam
- What to Expect: Thirumullavaram Beach is a great spot for enjoying seafood and other local snacks while soaking in the sun. The beachside vendors serve a variety of delicious street food, making it the perfect place for a snack after a swim.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Prawn Fry: Fresh prawns fried and served with local bread or rice.
- Banana Fritters: Sweet bananas dipped in batter and fried to perfection.
- Egg Curry: Hard-boiled eggs in a spicy, flavorful curry.
- Best For: Visitors looking to enjoy beachside snacks while relaxing by the water.
9. Kottarakara (Nearby Kollam)
- Location: Kottarakara, Kollam District
- What to Expect: Kottarakara, located near Kollam, is famous for its local delicacies. Visitors can find small street food stalls that serve everything from traditional Kerala sweets to spicy curries.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Kottarakara Porotta with Beef Curry: Soft, flaky parotta served with a spicy beef curry.
- Pazham Pori: Deep-fried banana fritters served with a sprinkle of sugar.
- Kuzhalappam: A traditional Kerala snack made of rice dough filled with sweet or spicy fillings.
- Best For: Those looking to explore the regional flavors of Kollam and surrounding areas.
10. Munroe Island
- Location: Munroe Island, Kollam
- What to Expect: While Munroe Island is known for its scenic beauty and backwaters, the street food here is also a major highlight. Small stalls offer traditional Kerala snacks, often prepared using local ingredients and served fresh.
- Popular Street Foods:
- Kallumakkaya (Mussels): A popular Kerala street food where mussels are served steamed or fried with spices.
- Appam and Stew: Soft, fermented rice pancakes served with a creamy vegetable or chicken stew.
- Fresh Coconut Water: Served straight from the coconut.
- Best For: Tourists visiting Munroe Island who want to taste local flavors while exploring the island.
These street food destinations offer a variety of Kerala’s traditional flavors, from crispy fried snacks to delicious seafood dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or want to explore the local food scene, Kollam has a variety of street food options to satisfy your cravings.