Malabar Cafe - Trivandrum

Had a meal here last night. Fantastic food. Decor very no frills but that seems to be the norm in kerela. The service was fantastic and the man who served us was brilliant. We had chicken 65 which was very very nice, a chicken curr, aloo gobbi and a veg biriyani with 4 alcoholic drinks £24 which is incredibly cheap for the quality!

Food and service excellent. I ate here many times during my 2 week stay in Kovalam. One time I wasn't feeling well, and by the time the food arrived (just omelette and fries as I was hoping to be able to eat something light , I had gotten worse. I was shivering and cold. (A 1st in South India as normally I was sweating.. . Thanks to the friendly waiter, Selin, who wrapped my dinner and gave it to me to take away. I really appreciated the care and attention he gave me that evening. And after that he always asked after my health every time I went back. So would definitely recommend. (Even the WC is OK!

We picked the restaurant based on Trip Advisor ratings and the Lonely Planet guide. It was very busy when we arrived but they made room for us and later let us move to a table with a better view when people left. It’s an ordinary, down to earth, chilled setting. Food and service were both really good. We had chicken biryani and a chicken sizzler and drinks. Couldn’t fault any of it, and all for the bargain price of £21.00. Worth a visit.

We’ve been coming to Malabar over 5 years now and it still remains one of our favourite restaurants. It’s now set above the street, so you’re not hassled by beach sellers. The staff are able to accommodate my particular dietary needs. They have an open kitchen. I’m always wary of salad in India. However I am very confident of Malabar food. See you again next year Jerry Michelle

We ate at Malabar cafe this evening and had fantastic food and friendly service. We tried the paneer butter masala, parotas and coconut fish (from the red bar at the top of the menu showing specials). All food was freshly made and very tasty and we would highly recommend the coconut fish!