Andaman and Nicobar Food - Traditional Seafood Platter

Andaman and Nicobar Food

A Culinary Journey Through Island Flavors: From Fresh Seafood to Coconut Delicacies in 2025

200+
Local Dishes
50+
Seafood Varieties
30+
Tropical Fruits
15+
Food Festivals

The Unique Food Culture of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The cuisine of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is a fascinating blend of flavors influenced by South Indian, Bengali, and Southeast Asian culinary traditions. Being an archipelago, seafood dominates the local diet, with fresh catches prepared using coconut, curry leaves, and aromatic spices.

The islands' tropical climate yields an abundance of coconuts, tropical fruits, and vegetables that form the backbone of traditional recipes. From the bustling markets of Port Blair to the beachside shacks of Havelock, each meal tells a story of cultural convergence and island life.

Primary Influences

  • • South Indian (Tamil, Telugu)
  • • Bengali & Odia
  • • Burmese & Thai
  • • Indigenous Tribal

Key Ingredients

  • • Fresh Seafood
  • • Coconut (all forms)
  • • Tropical Spices
  • • Local Vegetables
Traditional Andaman seafood preparation
🦐

Fresh Daily Catch

From ocean to plate in hours

Must-Try Dishes in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

From ocean-fresh seafood to coconut-infused delicacies, discover the authentic flavors that define island cuisine in 2025

Andaman Fish Curry with coconut
Most Popular

Andaman Fish Curry

A coconut-based curry featuring fresh catch of the day, flavored with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and local spices. Best enjoyed with steamed rice.

₹250-400
★★★★★(4.8)
Andaman Lobster Thermidor
Premium

Andaman Lobster Delights

Fresh Andaman lobster prepared in various styles - grilled, butter garlic, or thermidor. A luxury seafood experience unique to the islands.

₹1,500-3,000
★★★★★(4.9)
Coconut Prawn Curry

Coconut Prawn Curry

Succulent prawns cooked in creamy coconut milk with green chilies, ginger, and aromatic spices. A perfect blend of flavors.

₹350-500
★★★★★(4.7)
Tandoori Grilled Fish

Tandoori Grilled Fish

Fresh red snapper or kingfish marinated in tandoori spices and grilled to perfection. Served with mint chutney and salad.

₹400-600
★★★★☆(4.6)
Andaman Crab Masala
Chef's Special

Andaman Crab Masala

Mud crabs cooked in a spicy masala with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of coastal spices. A messy but delicious island favorite.

₹600-900
★★★★★(4.8)
Island Style Chicken Tikka

Island Chicken Tikka

Tender chicken marinated in yogurt and local spices, grilled in tandoor. A fusion of North Indian style with island flavors.

₹250-350
★★★★☆(4.5)

Traditional & Tribal Delicacies

Nicobari Dishes

  • 🥥
    Kakara Pitha

    Sweet coconut-filled pancakes, a Nicobari specialty

  • 🍛
    Fish Moilee

    Mild coconut milk-based fish stew with curry leaves

  • 🌾
    Spicy Rice Cakes

    Steamed rice cakes with chilies and coconut

Bengali Influence

  • 🐟
    Macher Jhol

    Light fish curry with vegetables, Bengali style

  • 🦐
    Chingri Malai Curry

    Creamy prawn curry with coconut milk

  • 🍚
    Bhapa Ilish

    Steamed hilsa fish in mustard sauce

Street Food & Local Markets in Andaman

Explore the vibrant street food scene where local flavors meet culinary innovation

🏪

Aberdeen Bazaar

The heart of Port Blair's street food scene. Find everything from spicy chaats to fresh fruit juices.

Must Try:

  • • Samosas & Kachoris
  • • Fresh Coconut Water
  • • Bhel Puri & Pani Puri
  • • Local Fish Fry
🍜

Gol Ghar Complex

A food court paradise offering diverse cuisines from South Indian to Chinese, all with an island twist.

Popular Items:

  • • Dosas & Idlis
  • • Seafood Noodles
  • • Chicken Biryani
  • • Fresh Lime Soda
🏖️

Beach Shacks

Casual beachside eateries in Havelock and Neil Island serving fresh catches with ocean views.

Specialties:

  • • Grilled Fish & Chips
  • • Prawn Tempura
  • • Coconut-based Cocktails
  • • Seafood BBQ Platters

Street Food Safety Tips for 2025

  • Choose busy stalls with high turnover
  • Opt for freshly cooked hot food
  • Drink only bottled or filtered water
  • Check hygiene ratings (new 2025 system)
  • Start with small portions
  • Carry hand sanitizer

Vegetarian Food in Andaman and Nicobar

Abundant vegetarian options with South Indian, North Indian, and continental choices available throughout the islands

Popular Vegetarian Dishes

South Indian Favorites

Crispy dosas, fluffy idlis, medu vada, and uttapam served with coconut chutney and sambar

North Indian Delights

Paneer dishes, dal makhani, mixed vegetables, and fresh rotis/naans from tandoor

Local Vegetarian Specials

Banana flower curry, coconut-based vegetable stews, and tropical fruit salads

Continental Options

Wood-fired pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, and fresh salads with local produce

Vegetarian South Indian platter
🌱

Pure Veg Restaurants

Available in all major areas

Exotic Tropical Fruits of Andaman

Discover the tropical fruit paradise with varieties you won't find anywhere else in India

🥥

Coconut

King of fruits - water, malai, oil

🥭

Mangoes

Multiple varieties, super sweet

🍉

Watermelon

Year-round availability

🍌

Bananas

20+ local varieties

🍇

Jamun

Black plum, seasonal

🍑

Sapota

Super sweet chikoo

🍈

Rambutan

Exotic hairy fruit

🍍

Pineapple

Extra sweet variety

Top Restaurants in Andaman and Nicobar 2025

From fine dining to local favorites, here's where to find the best food experiences

Fine Dining

Amaya Restaurant

SeaShell Resort, Havelock

Continental & Seafood • ₹₹₹₹

Nicobari Restaurant

Fortune Resort, Port Blair

Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹

Local Favorites

Annapurna Cafeteria

Aberdeen Bazaar

Pure Veg • ₹₹

New Lighthouse Restaurant

Marine Hill, Port Blair

Seafood Specialist • ₹₹

Beach Cafes

Full Moon Cafe

Beach No. 5, Havelock

Beachside Dining • ₹₹

Barefoot Bar & Restaurant

Radhanagar Beach

Continental & Bar • ₹₹₹

Culinary Tours & Food Experiences 2025

Immerse yourself in Andaman's food culture with guided tours and cooking classes

🍜

Port Blair Street Food Walk

3-hour guided tour through Aberdeen Bazaar and local markets. Taste 10+ local dishes and learn about food history.

₹1,500/personDaily at 5 PM
👨‍🍳

Andaman Cooking Masterclass

Learn to cook authentic island dishes. Market visit, cooking session, and meal included. Vegetarian options available.

₹2,500/personMon, Wed, Fri
🦞

Catch & Cook Experience

Join fishermen at dawn, catch your meal, and enjoy it cooked fresh at a beach shack. Unique island experience!

₹3,500/personTue, Thu, Sat

Dietary Tips for Travelers in Andaman

What to Eat & Drink

  • Fresh seafood from reputable restaurants
  • Bottled water from known brands
  • Fresh coconut water (nature's electrolyte)
  • Cooked vegetables and fruits you can peel
  • Hot, freshly prepared meals

⚠️ What to Avoid

  • Tap water and ice in drinks
  • Raw or undercooked seafood
  • Street vendor salads and cut fruits
  • Mayonnaise-based dishes in heat
  • Unpasteurized dairy products

Special Dietary Requirements

🌱

Vegan Options

Available at most restaurants, specify "no ghee/butter"

🌾

Gluten-Free

Rice-based dishes widely available, ask for wheat-free

🥗

Jain Food

Limited but available, pre-inform restaurants

🍼

Baby Food

Fresh fruits, boiled vegetables, and cereals available

Frequently Asked Questions About Andaman Food

Is seafood safe to eat in Andaman?

Yes, seafood in Andaman is generally very safe as it's caught fresh daily. Always eat at reputable restaurants and ensure the seafood is well-cooked. The best seafood months are October to May.

What is the average cost of meals in Andaman?

Budget meals: ₹100-200 per person, Mid-range restaurants: ₹300-600 per person, Fine dining: ₹800-1500 per person. Seafood dishes are generally more expensive than vegetarian options.

Can I find international cuisine in Andaman?

Yes, Port Blair and Havelock Island have restaurants serving Continental, Chinese, Thai, and Italian cuisines. Many resorts offer international buffets alongside Indian options.

Are there food delivery services in Andaman?

As of 2025, food delivery apps operate in Port Blair and parts of Havelock Island. However, coverage is limited compared to mainland cities. Most hotels offer room service.

What about alcohol availability?

Alcohol is available at licensed restaurants, hotels, and specific shops. Prices are higher than mainland due to transportation costs. Many beach shacks serve beer and cocktails.

Ready to Taste the Flavors of Andaman?

Book your culinary adventure and discover why Andaman's food scene is India's best-kept secret