The best bars and cafés Kerala

Timetable

Cafés are open during the day and close in the late afternoon in small towns and in the late evening in large cities. Bars usually open in the late afternoon and close at 10pm.

Budget & Tips

The prices for an espresso or cappuccino in hotels or cafés are about the same as in France. That said, you are in the land of tea, enjoy it! Prices are much lower in street stalls or in some small shops (count between 10 and 15 Rs for a cup of chai masala).

Imported liquors are subject to high taxes, which makes local brands much more interesting. Be aware that alcohol is expensive in Kerala, and if you want to buy some you will have to go through a liquor shop which is quite complex for a foreigner. If possible, have a local accompany you.

Age restrictions

Please note that in Kerala, the legal age for buying and consuming alcohol is 23. Access to bars and pubs is theoretically forbidden to young people under the legal drinking age. In reality, however, some establishments, particularly in seaside resorts, serve alcohol to young tourists.

What's very local

It isimpossible to visit the country without tasting at least once the masala chai, the Indian tea with milk and spices (ginger, cardamom, pepper, depending on the recipe)... Served hot in a small glass, in a clay or paper cup, it is generally drunk standing up, on the go.

The bars of the cities and the hotels are often the prerogative of an exclusively male clientele, no Indian woman ventures there.

The toddy shops are small establishments serving the local specialty based on natural fermented coconut juice, the toddy, and very spicy local dishes. Take a local with you to experience this unique Kerala experience.

Kids

Children are obviously not welcome in bars. However, they are sometimes allowed in most restaurants serving alcohol.

Smokers

Smoking is strictly prohibited in public places. Smoking areas are available in some restaurants and bars. Smoking is sometimes tolerated in some bars and restaurants with open terraces in seaside resorts.