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Thoothukudi has a rich maritime heritage dating back thousands of years. Known as the "Pearl City," it was once a center of pearl fishing and trade. Today, Thoothukudi remains an important commercial hub, with a major seaport that handles cargo, fishing, and passenger traffic.
The old part of the city features Portuguese and Dutch architecture, remnants of its colonial past. Thoothukudi is also home to the centuries-old Thoothukudi Macaroon sweet, a multi-layered delicacy made from egg whites, sugar, and cashew nuts or almonds. The Our Lady of Snows Basilica festival held annually in August draws Catholic pilgrims from across India.
Vatthal Kulambu
It is a veg curry dish known for its complex blend of spices and mix of textures. The star ingredient is vatthal or dried grapes, which add a sweet, chewy texture and fruity flavour. These grapes soak up all the spices and sauce, creating an incredibly complex dish. Vatthal Kulambu is considered a specialty of Thoothukudi because of the abundance of Palmyra palms in that area, whose fruits are used to make the vatthal.
Image credit: Freepik
Restaurant Recommendations: Kanis Restaurant, Shanmugapuram, Thoothukudi
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Venthaya Kali
This hearty rice porridge is often served for breakfast, providing nourishment to start the day. The porridge is creamy yet textured from the rice grains. Venthaya Kali is regarded as comfort food in Thoothukudi and is frequently prepared in homes across the city. It is versatile in that it can be eaten as a savoury breakfast dish or even for dinner.
Image credit: Freepik
Restaurant Recommendations: Sree Haris Restaurant, Shanmugapuram, Thoothukudi
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Meen Kulambu
Meen Kulambu is one of the most famous and beloved fish curries in the cuisine of Thoothukudi. Meen Kulambu is beloved for its complex yet balanced flavours and the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of the fish. The dish is a staple in everyday meals and also served during festive occasions. Locals and visitors relish Meen Kulambu with steaming hot rice or spongy dosas.
Restaurant Recommendations: Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant, Pudugramam, Thoothukudi
Type: Non Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Meen Varuval
Meen Varuval is a famous dish known for its unique and flavourful preparation of fried fish. The fish marinated and then lightly fried while keeping the flesh moist and flaky. The combination of the tender fish, crispy frying, and pungent masala creates an explosion of tastes and textures. Meen Varuval highlights the rich culinary heritage, which creatively balances the natural sweetness of fresh seafood with complex layers of spice.
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Restaurant Recommendations: Prema Mess Meenakshipuram Main Road, Meenakshi Puram, Thoothukudi
Type: Non Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Karuvaddu Kulambu
Karuvaddu Kulambu is a mouth-watering fish curry. The base of the curry is made with tamarind paste which lends it a nice tangy taste. The curry gets its unique texture from the addition of vegetables like field beans, drumsticks, and brinjals which soak up all the spices and flavours. The fish used is generally a firm, dry fish which holds its shape during cooking. Finally, coconut milk is added which gives it a rich, creamy finish. It is a delicious and flavourful dish that is a must-try for all fish curry lovers.
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Restaurant Recommendations: Hotel Rajaparvai Thoothukudi, Palayamkottai Road Opp New Corporation Building, Pudugramam, Thoothukudi
Type: Non Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Tuticorin Macaroon
Unlike the light and airy French macaroons made from almond flour, the Tuticorin Macaroon is made from rich, creamy cashews which give it a distinctive flavour and texture. What makes the Tuticorin Macaroon special is the exceptional quality of the cashews grown in this region. The Tuticorin Macaroon has put the small port city of Thoothukudi on the culinary map and represents the incredible diversity of Indian sweets and confections.
Image credit: Freepik
Restaurant Recommendations: Lotus Multi Cuisine Restaurant, Korampallam, Thoothukudi
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
Ulunthang Kali
This famous and beloved sweet dish hailing from the Thoothukudi is a sweet treat made from a combination of black urad dal, rice, palm sugar, and freshly grated coconut. The dal and rice are ground together into a smooth batter, sweetened with the fragrant palm sugar, and then steamed until fluffy and cake-like. It is served warm, often garnished with more grated coconut. Additionally, the dish is a standard inclusion in celebrations, festivals, and weddings in the area.
Restaurant Recommendations: Bell Harbour Restaurant, Shanmugapuram, Thoothukudi
Type: Vegetarian
Budget: ₹200–400, approx
