9 cafes and shacks in the beach town of Varkala you must visit when you're there

From a culinary perspective, India is full of hidden gems. Which is exactly why we explore the must-visit food places at a new spot every week. This time, we turned our gaze to Varkala, a beach town in Kerala. Located at a two-hour drive from Alleppey, this laid-back town is the ideal vacation destination if you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Vogue spoke to Aniket Karia, founder at All Heart, a health-conscious food brand, for his recommendations from the array of cafes and shacks that pepper the streets at Varkala. Scroll ahead for his list.

Soul Food Cafe

Soul and Surf is a surf and yoga stay in Kerala. “You can just cut away from the world and spend a few days learning surfing or yoga here,” says Karia. Their in-house cafe, Soul Food Cafe, is located at the clifftop garden at Soul & Surf, making it the perfect spot to relax with your friends. They offer a short-but-sweet menu which includes sumptuous Mezze Platters, as well as Mini Pappadams, Meen Pollichathu (fish steamed in banana leaves) and coffee sourced from the Western ghats.

Address: South Cliff, Janardhanapuram, Varkala, Kerala

InDa Cafe

Looking for a relaxed place to work out of on your trip? Karia recommends InDa Cafe. This cozy home-style European cafe offers a highly creative menu that you must try out on your trip. Place an order for their Green Bowls, the Eggs Benedict (made with chicken or salmon), Bacon Pancakes and their Buddha bowls. The Green Goodness Bowl and the Quinoa Papaya Bowl come highly recommended.

Address: 1/153a, Kurakkanni, Inda Hotel, Varkala, Kerala

Caffé Italiano

A view of the beach? Check. Amazing food? Great ambiance? Check. Caffé Italiano has it all. “Enjoy their amazing Italian menu, get a seat on the deck with a view of the cliff and make a day of it,” recommends Karia.

Address: North Cliff, Varkala Beach, Varkala, Kerala

Eco Puccini Lala Art Cafe

“I enjoy eating healthy, organic meals, and this cafe serves a lot of options [for people like me],” says Karia. Talking about their extensive menu, Karia reveals that they offer Ayurvedic food as well as a Vegan Thali. Plus, they also have a vegan buffet, so you can be sure to have a hearty meal here. Don’t leave without trying their Vegan Cheesecake—you’ll regret it if you do.

Address: Northend Cliff, Near Thiruvambadi Beach, Kurakkanni, Varkala, Trivandrum, Kerala

Cafe Nomad

Serving Indian and Continental cuisine, Nomad offers a great romantic setting for those who are looking for one in Varkala. Located at the right in the centre of the cliff, it offers a picturesque view you don’t want to miss out on. Theier Buddha Bowls, Charcoal Grilled Fish and Prawns with butters come highly recommended. Complete your meal with their iced latte and fresh fruit juices as you enjoy the sea breeze.

Address: North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala

Darjeeling Cafe

You’ll find lots of people chilling at the Darjeeling Cafe after their yoga sessions, sipping on their fresh fruit juices or devouring their smoothie bowls. Featuring giant dreamcatchers and candlelit tables, the decor at this space makes for a great backdrop for those all-important Instagram pictures. Must-try dishes from their extensive menu include the Masala Dosa, Banana Leaf Fish, Kerala Chicken Curry and Paneer or Fish Tikka Platters with chips and salad.

Address: Middle Cliff, Varkala, Kerala

Café del Mar

If you’re looking to detox on your trip, Café del Mar is the place for you. Karia recommends this cafe for their Avocado Salad, Samosa and Fish Tikka, as well their pastas and pizzas. It is known for having an undisturbed view of the beach, with soul-stirring music playing in the background. So, grab a book and let the world stand still for a day as you indulge in their menu.

Address: North Cliff, Near Helipad, Varkala, Kerala

Gods Own Country Kitchen

Looking for a traditional and authentic food in Varkala? Head over to Gods Own Country Kitchen, and order their Spiced Fish (which comes wrapped in banana leaf) and Kerala Chicken Curry. The cafe has a floor dedicated to live music as well, making it perfect for music enthusiasts visiting the beach town.

Address: North Cliff, Near Helipad, Varkala, Kerala

Coffee Temple

Coffee Temple is a local’s favourite in Varkala. As the name suggests, the space serves a delicious and extensive range of coffee. They also known for their cinnamon tea, and they also offer a plethora of breakfast items on their menu. Make sure you try their Crepes, French Toast and Mexican burritos. Plus, they also have an expansive vegan selection on offer.

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