10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Kochi – Kerala You Should Visit

Kochi has always been closely connected to the sea. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, backwaters, rivers, and fishing villages, the city enjoys access to some of the freshest seafood in Kerala. Every morning, fishing boats return with their catch, supplying restaurants with everything from pearl spot (karimeen) and seer fish to prawns, squid, crab, mussels, clams, mullet, tuna, and seasonal varieties that eventually find their way onto lunch tables across the city.

What makes Kochi’s seafood culture truly special is its diversity. Some restaurants prepare recipes that have been passed down through generations, while others blend Kerala’s coastal traditions with influences from Mangalorean, Anglo-Indian, and even contemporary fine dining. Whether you enjoy fiery kanthari-based dishes, comforting fish curry meals, delicately grilled seafood, or luxurious coconut milk gravies, Kochi has something to satisfy every seafood lover.

Over the years, we’ve explored numerous seafood restaurants across Kochi while filming for Food N Travel. Some of these restaurants have become internet sensations, while others remain local favourites known mainly to regular customers. This guide brings together ten seafood restaurants that consistently impressed us with their freshness, flavour, hospitality, and overall dining experience.

Rather than ranking these restaurants from best to worst, we’ve selected each one for its unique strengths. Some are perfect for traditional Kerala lunches, others specialise in spicy coastal delicacies, while a few offer refined dining experiences for special occasions. No matter which one you choose, you’ll discover why they deserve a place among the best seafood restaurants in Kochi.

1. Karthiyayini Seafood Restaurant, Kundannoor

Whenever someone asks me to recommend one of the best seafood restaurants in Kochi, Karthiyayini Seafood Restaurant is always among my first suggestions. Over the years, this family-run restaurant has become one of Kochi’s most talked-about seafood destinations, attracting food lovers from across Kerala. What makes it truly special is its commitment to freshness—there is no fixed menu, and the day’s offerings depend entirely on the seafood purchased that morning.

The restaurant is known for authentic home-style Kerala cooking, where freshly ground spices and traditional recipes allow the natural flavours of the seafood to shine. During my visit, the Squid Kanthari and the Thirutha Fish Curry stood out as exceptional dishes, while the Prawns Roast and Kalanji Tawa Fry were equally impressive. Lunch hours are extremely busy, so arriving before 12:30 PM is the best way to enjoy the widest variety of seafood.

Must Try

• Squid Kanthari
• Thirutha Fish Curry
• Prawns Roast
• Kalanji Tawa Fry
• Fish Curry Meals

Expected Budget: ₹500–₹900 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: 14/407, Kundannoor–Willingdon Island Road, Maradu, Kochi
🕒 Timings: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
🚫 Holiday: Monday
📞 Contact: +91 77360 23222

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jupj2aPYNt4UZfWG9

💡 Our Tip: Reach before 12:30 PM. The day’s most popular seafood varieties often sell out quickly.

2. FishMarket Multicuisine Restaurant, Ravipuram

If you’re looking for one of the best seafood restaurants in Kochi that blends authentic coastal flavours with a more refined dining experience, FishMarket Multicuisine Restaurant is an excellent choice. Conveniently located in Ravipuram, the restaurant has earned an outstanding reputation for serving fresh seafood inspired by both Kerala and Mangalorean cuisine. The comfortable interiors, rooftop seating, and attentive service make it suitable for families as well as special occasions.

Among the highlights of the menu are the rich Prawns Ghee Roast, soft Neer Dosa, flavourful Squid Green Ghee Roast, Crab Sukka, and the delicious Seer Fish Head Mango Curry. Every dish reflects careful preparation and quality ingredients, making FishMarket one of the city’s most consistent seafood destinations.

Must Try

• Prawns Ghee Roast
• Squid Green Ghee Roast
• Crab Sukka
• Seer Fish Head Mango Curry

Expected Budget

₹700–₹1,200 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: Ravipuram, Kochi
🕒 Timings: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 62351 35111

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nUH6BHvkdLLBeu8g6

💡 Our Tip: Visit when the restaurant opens for lunch to enjoy a relaxed dining experience before it gets busy.

3. Machli Restaurant, Kathrikadavu

When it comes to value for money, Machli Restaurant easily earns its place among the best seafood restaurants in Kochi. Located at Kathrikadavu, this casual and family-friendly restaurant is well known for serving generous portions of authentic Kerala seafood without burning a hole in your pocket. Their unlimited fish curry meals have become a favourite among locals, while food vloggers frequently recommend the restaurant for its consistently good food and homely flavours.

Seafood lovers should definitely try the Machli Special Fish Fry, prepared with fresh fish marinated in a spicy Kerala masala and cooked on a hot tawa. Their Chemmeen Kanthari, crispy Squid Fry, and unlimited fish curry meals are equally popular. Although seafood remains the main attraction, dishes like Duck Roast and Beef Stew are also highly recommended if you’re dining with a group.

Must Try

• Unlimited Fish Curry Meals
• Machli Special Fish Fry
• Chemmeen Kanthari
• Squid Fry

Expected Budget

₹400–₹800 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: Thammanam–Pullepady Road, Kathrikadavu, Kochi
🕒 Timings: 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 96338 73776

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ncQUweyC7Sp3NHN86

💡 Our Tip: Their fish curry meals paired with the Machli Special Fish Fry offer one of the best-value seafood lunches in Kochi.

4. Ela Oonu Restaurant, Kadavanthra

If you’re searching for a traditional Kerala lunch experience, Ela Oonu is undoubtedly one of the best seafood restaurants in Kochi. The name literally means “meals served on a banana leaf,” and that’s exactly what you’ll enjoy here. Popular among office-goers and families alike, the restaurant serves unlimited Kerala meals accompanied by a rotating selection of freshly prepared seafood dishes that change according to the day’s catch.

What makes Ela Oonu special is its simple, home-style cooking. Every meal comes with rice, fish curry, moru curry, vegetable side dishes, and pappadam, while seafood lovers can choose from daily specials such as Karimeen Fry, Kakka Meat Roast, Prawns Tawa Fry, and Squid Roast. It’s the kind of place where the food reminds you of a delicious home-cooked Kerala lunch.

Must Try

• Kerala Meals
• Neymeen Fry
• Kakka Meat Roast

Expected Budget

₹350–₹700 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: G.C.D. Market Road, Kadavanthra, Kochi
🕒 Timings: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
🚫 Holiday: Sunday
📞 Contact: +91 95398 87855

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/s2fYQYRydUPkTb4s7

💡 Our Tip: Reach before 12:15 PM to enjoy the widest variety of seafood before the lunch rush begins.

5. Cheenavala Restaurant, Edappally

Among the best seafood restaurants in Kochi, Cheenavala Restaurant offers one of the most comfortable family dining experiences. Conveniently located near the Edappally Toll Junction, the restaurant combines traditional Kerala seafood with a premium ambience, making it a great choice for both casual family lunches and special occasions.

One of Cheenavala’s biggest attractions is its live seafood counter, where diners can choose their preferred fish and decide how they would like it prepared. Signature dishes include the delicious Karimeen Pollichathu, flavourful Crab Roast, crispy Squid Tawa Fry, and the creamy Fish Mango Curry made with coconut milk. The spacious interiors, efficient service, and consistently fresh seafood make Cheenavala a dependable choice for seafood lovers.

Must Try

• Karimeen Pollichathu
• Crab Roast
• Squid Tawa Fry
• Prawns karikku curry

Expected Budget

₹700–₹1,200 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: Toll Junction, Edappally, Kochi
🕒 Timings:
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
7:00 PM – 10:30 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 484 280 3456

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FNH6PaheqjtzscmU6

💡 Our Tip: If you’re dining with family, ask to see the fresh catch before ordering. The restaurant will happily recommend the best cooking style for each variety.

6. Vellakkanthaari Restaurant, Container Road

If you enjoy bold, fiery Kerala flavours, Vellakkanthaari Restaurant is easily one of the best seafood restaurants in Kochi. Situated along the scenic Container Road, this rustic, toddy-shop-style restaurant has become a favourite among seafood lovers for its authentic Kerala cooking and generous use of kanthari mulaku (bird’s eye chilli). The open-air setting, simple ambience, and proximity to the backwaters make it a refreshing place to enjoy a leisurely lunch.

The restaurant is particularly famous for its spicy seafood preparations that pair perfectly with Kerala meals or boiled tapioca (kappa). Their Vellakkanthaari Fish Fry, Prawns Tawa Fry, Crab Roast, and Kakka Meat Roast are packed with flavour and prepared using fresh local catches. While the restaurant can get crowded and cleanliness may occasionally be affected during peak hours, the quality of the food more than makes up for it.

Must Try

• Vellakkanthaari Fish Fry
• Crab Roast
• Natholi Fry
• Kappa & Fish Curry

Expected Budget

₹400–₹800 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: NH966A, Near Ponnarimangalam Toll Plaza, Mulavukad, Kochi
🕒 Timings: 12:30 PM – 6:00 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 88914 35587

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4BZ9ubHDWEU3GECb8

💡 Our Tip: If you love spicy food, this restaurant should be on your list. Pair the seafood with hot kappa for an authentic Kerala experience.

7. Ponjikkara Cozinha, Shenoys

Among the best seafood restaurants in Kochi, Ponjikkara Cozinha offers something truly unique. Inspired by the rich Anglo-Indian culinary traditions of Fort Kochi and the nearby islands, this charming restaurant revives recipes that have been passed down through generations. The cosy interiors and warm hospitality create an inviting atmosphere, making it a wonderful place for those who appreciate heritage cuisine.

The menu focuses on traditional coastal recipes prepared with fresh seafood and home-style spice blends. Signature dishes include their comforting Fish Curry, flavourful Prawn Roast, and beautifully prepared Tawa Fish Fry. Unlike restaurants that rely on heavy masalas, Ponjikkara Cozinha lets the freshness of the seafood shine through, resulting in flavours that are both nostalgic and distinctive.

Must Try

• Traditional Fish Curry
• Prawn Roast
• Tawa Fish Fry
• Kerala Meals

Expected Budget

₹600–₹1,000 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: Chittoor Road, Near Rajaji Road, Shenoys, Kochi
🕒 Timings: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 484 461 6317

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HcDa9yJw5jtDLXYo9

💡 Our Tip: If you’re looking to experience traditional Anglo-Indian flavours that are rarely found elsewhere in Kochi, Ponjikkara Cozinha is an excellent choice.

8. Meen by Chef Pillai, Forum Mall, Kundannoor

For those seeking a premium dining experience, Meen by Chef Pillai deserves a place among the best seafood restaurants in Kochi. Located inside Forum Mall, this elegant restaurant showcases celebrity Chef Suresh Pillai’s modern interpretation of Kerala’s coastal cuisine. Every dish is beautifully presented while staying true to traditional flavours, making it a favourite for celebrations and special occasions.

The undisputed highlight of the menu is the famous Fish Nirvana, where perfectly cooked fish is served in a rich coconut milk gravy infused with ginger and kanthari chillies. Other standout dishes include Ashtamudi Fish Curry, Clam Fry, and soft Nool Porotta. While prices are higher than those of traditional seafood restaurants, the quality of ingredients, presentation, and service fully justify the premium experience.

Must Try

• Fish Nirvana
• Ashtamudi Fish Curry

Expected Budget

₹1,000–₹2,000 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: 3rd Floor, Forum Mall, Kundannoor, Kochi
🕒 Timings: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 87146 72918

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4ec2fmhnVe3p4F6h6

💡 Our Tip: Don’t leave without trying the Fish Nirvana. It’s the restaurant’s signature dish and one of Chef Pillai’s most celebrated creations.

9. Kerala Cafe, Fort Kochi

Located in the heart of the historic Fort Kochi, Kerala Cafe is one of the best seafood restaurants in Kochi for travellers who want to combine great food with a beautiful heritage ambience. Housed in a charming colonial-style building, the restaurant is popular among both international tourists and locals looking for authentic Kerala flavours in a relaxed setting. It’s an ideal stop after exploring the nearby Chinese Fishing Nets, St. Francis Church, and the streets of Fort Kochi.

The menu features a variety of traditional Kerala seafood dishes prepared using fresh local ingredients. Their Fish Mango Curry, Tiger Prawns, Squid Fry, and Karimeen Pollichathu are among the restaurant’s standout dishes. Along with excellent seafood, Kerala Cafe also serves delicious appams, local desserts, tea, and coffee, making it a great place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner.

Must Try

• Fish Mango Curry
• Karimeen Pollichathu
• Tiger Prawns
• Appam

Expected Budget

₹700–₹1,200 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: Rose Street, Fort Kochi, Kochi – 682001
🕒 Timings: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 98953 55939

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ekdREtTnm7ZgkRxp8

💡 Our Tip: If you’re spending a day exploring Fort Kochi, Kerala Cafe makes a perfect lunch or dinner stop thanks to its location and relaxed atmosphere.

10. Meeshakkaran Dileepettante Kada, Madavana

Rounding off our list of the best seafood restaurants in Kochi is Meeshakkaran Dileepettante Kada at Madavana. Bringing the legendary flavours of Dileepettan’s seafood to Kochi city, this restaurant has quickly earned a loyal following among seafood lovers looking for fresh, home-style Kerala meals. The restaurant keeps things simple, focusing on fresh daily catches, traditional recipes, and generous portions rather than elaborate interiors.

Every meal is served with delicious fish curry, while the day’s blackboard menu offers a tempting selection of seafood prepared according to availability. Their Karimeen Fry, Prawns Roast, Squid Tawa Fry, and seasonal Crab Roast consistently receive high praise from regular customers. If you’re looking for authentic Kerala seafood without the premium price tag, this is a restaurant that deserves a visit.

Must Try

• Kalanji Thala Curry
• Prawns Roast
• Squid Tawa Fry
• Crab Roast

Expected Budget

₹450–₹850 per person

Restaurant Information

📍 Address: Panangad Road, Madavana, Panangad, Kochi – 682506
🕒 Timings: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
🚫 Holiday: Open all days
📞 Contact: +91 92493 06159

🗺️ Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/92dfRHjWuAGonYaq9

💡 Our Tip: Visit around 12:30 PM to enjoy the widest selection of freshly prepared seafood before the most popular dishes sell out.