Nestled along the sweeping coastlines of Kerala, Varkala stands as a picturesque blend of serene beaches and a vibrant cultural tapestry, making it a gem in India’s tourism crown. Among its many attractions, the cafes in Varkala offer a feast for the taste buds and a serene ambience that mirrors the tranquil beauty of this coastal town. Set against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea’s azure waters and the town’s lush greenery, these cafes are perfect retreats for both the weary traveller seeking solace and the adventurous spirit looking for a taste of local and international cuisines.
These cafes are about experiencing Varkala in its most authentic and memorable form. From traditional Kerala dishes to contemporary culinary delights catering to the palate of tourists, these establishments offer numerous choices. Coupled with their warm, inviting atmosphere, these places provide the perfect setting for an afternoon escape or a peaceful evening, allowing you to savour the flavours at your own leisurely pace.
As the sun sets over Varkala, casting golden hues across its beaches, the cafes here take on a magical aura. Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking a scenic workspace, a family looking for a cosy dining spot, or a solo visitor eager to soak in the town’s relaxed atmosphere while enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee, Varkala’s cafes cater to every taste and preference, making them must-visit places on your culinary map.
Beachside bites: The best cafes in Varkala
InDa Cafe
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Located within the serene confines of the InDa hotel, this inviting cafe captures the essence of European charm with its view of a meticulously maintained garden, complete with exotic flora. A cosy lounge space features unique seating crafted from repurposed Kerala fishing boats.
For those with a penchant for international cuisine infused with a regional twist, InDa cafe is the go-to spot. Its relaxed vibe is complemented by an eclectic menu of tasty European fare and daily specials, accompanied by soothing music.
What to try: Pancakes, Turkish-style coffee, smoothie bowls, brick-oven pizza, chicken steak, and salads
Cost for two: Approximately INR 1,200
Timings: 8:30 am – 10 pm
Contact: +917025211983
Location: 695141, 1/153 A, Kurakkanni, Varkala, Kerala, India
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Darjeeling Cafe
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Perched atop the North Cliff, Darjeeling Cafe offers a relaxed, bohemian vibe with breathtaking sunset views and delicious cuisine. This cafe shuns conventional upscale dining aesthetics for a vibrant and eclectic ambience, adorned with colourful flags and comfortable sofa chairs.
Each meal is freshly made to order, showcasing a diverse menu spanning the culinary globe, from traditional Indian curries to Tibetan, Italian and Israeli cuisine. With a vegetarian-friendly selection, including both continental and Indian options, Darjeeling Cafe caters to a wide array of taste preferences.
What to try: Tibetan momos, fish in banana leaf, Kerala chicken curry
Cost for two: Approximately INR 1,000
Timings: 7 am – 11 pm
Contact: +917558822899
Location: Middle Cliff (near Clafouti), Varkala, India, Kerala
Soul Food Cafe
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Nestled within the serene clifftop garden of Soul & Surf in Kerala, Soul Food Cafe offers a unique gathering spot for a global community of like-minded and inspiring individuals. This breezy, open-air cafe offers a stunning vista of the Arabian Sea, furnished with daybeds that invite guests to linger over meals or simply soak in the ambience.
With a commitment to blending local ingredients and techniques with international flavours, Soul Food Cafe presents a concise yet diverse menu. Each dish is a creative blend of health-conscious choices and rich flavours. While breakfast is exclusively for guests staying at Soul and Surf, featuring Western and South Indian staples, the cafe welcomes outside visitors for lunch and dinner. The cafe serves a rich array of cuisines ranging from Mexican and Mediterranean to local Indian street food, along with specialities from South India, Morocco, and the Middle East.
What to try: Fish tacos, salads, fresh juices, South Indian, coconut roti breakfast
Cost for two: Approximately INR 1,700
Timings: 6:30 pm – 9 pm
Contact: +919895842538
Location: Golden Beach, South Cliff, Janardhanapuram, Varkala, Kerala 695141
(Note: Soul Food Cafe shuts down for regular tourists during the monsoon season.)
Café Del Mar
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Tucked away by Varkala’s North Cliff, Café Del Mar is a cosy seaside spot where flavours meet the sea breeze. Known for its hearty Italian meals, this cafe dishes out everything from pasta to tandoori chicken, ensuring there’s a plate for every taste.
This quaint shack-style spot is a favourite among backpackers and food enthusiasts, bustling with live music performances from local musicians in its outdoor gardens in the evenings, offering stunning views of the ocean.
What to try: Fish tikka, char-grilled chicken, beef lasagne
Cost for two: Approximately INR 850
Timings: 7:30 am – 10:30 pm
Contact: +918714853868
Location: North Cliff Road, near helipad, Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695141
Caffé Italiano
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Caffé Italiano in Varkala is a haven for those craving authentic Italian cuisine amidst lush greenery. Boasting a welcoming wooden design, the cafe offers amazing ocean views and features a small library inside for bibliophiles to enjoy.
Indulge in pasta and wood-fired pizzas while soaking in the serene ambience and savouring the flavours of Italy.
Cost for two: Approximately INR 700
Timings: 10:30 am – 11:00 pm
Contact: +919846053194
Location: North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala, 695141
Sun Francisco Cafe
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Nestled at the very heart of the cliff’s edge, Sun Francisco Cafe boasts breathtaking views that are not to be missed. As part of Mad About Coco, a chic beachside retreat, this cafe stands out for its commitment to the rich, aromatic flavours of South Indian culinary traditions, serving authentic and delicious dishes.
With a focus on seafood, the cafe presents the day’s freshest catch prepared in a traditional Indian manner alongside a selection of Indian and Continental dishes. Guests can round off their dining experience with refreshing smoothies and fresh fruit juices, all while soaking in the gentle sea breeze of the idyllic, coconut-dotted haven that is Varkala.
What to try: Smoothie bowls, English breakfast, fish fillet in banana leaf, crab biryani
Cost for two: Approximately INR 1,500
Timings: 8 am – 11 pm
Contact: +917034744443
Location: North Cliff, Kurakkanni, Varkala, Kerala, 695141, India
Coffee Temple
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Calling all coffee connoisseurs! Let your olfactory senses guide you to the Coffee Temple, a sanctuary for your taste buds and a soul-stirring caffeine fix since 1996.
Upon entering Coffee Temple, you’ll be enveloped in the intoxicating aromas of freshly roasted coffee beans, hinting at the flavourful experience awaiting you. Sunlight bathes the minimalist yet inviting space, decorated with coffee paraphernalia and brewing equipment — an ode to the bean, where every detail whispers: “Coffee is king”. Pair your coffee with homemade burgers, pasta, or a healthy dish from the vegan-friendly menu.
From single-origin pour-overs to classic lattes and inventive cold brews, your coffee journey starts here, one delicious sip at a time.
What to try: Vegan cakes, burgers, crepes, cold brews
Cost for two: Approximately INR 700
Timings: 6 am – 10 pm
Contact: +919746846457
Location: North Cliff, Varkala, Kerala, India
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(Feature image credit: soulandsurfindia/Instagram)
Related: Beyond Brews And Bites: Savour Coffee With A View At These Trendy Cafes In Shillong
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What types of cuisine can I expect to find in cafes in Varkala?
Varkala’s cafes offer a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Italian, Mediterranean, and Continental, often with a health-conscious twist, featuring local seafood, vegan, and vegetarian delights against stunning coastal views.
– Do cafes in Varkala offer vegetarian and vegan options?
Yes, Varkala’s cafes cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, offering dishes like vegan smoothie bowls, vegetarian thalis, dairy-free lattes, and plant-based desserts.
– Are cafes in Varkala suitable for remote work or digital nomads?
Varkala’s cafes cater to digital nomads with spots like Coffee Temple, Darjeeling Cafe, and Caffé Italiano offering Wi-Fi, tranquil workspaces, ocean vistas, and a menu of some amazing beverages and meals.
– Can I find cafes with ocean views in Varkala?
Varkala is home to picturesque cafes such as Café del Mar and Soul & Surf Cafe, where one can enjoy their brews and bites against the backdrop of stunning ocean panoramas.
– Are cafes in Varkala family-friendly?
Certainly, Varkala boasts family-friendly cafes such as Coffee Temple and InDa Cafe, which cater to all ages with diverse menus, comfortable seating, and a warm, welcoming environment perfect for family outings.
– Do cafes in Varkala serve alcoholic beverages?
Cafes in Varkala, like Café Del Mar, offer a selection of alcoholic beverages, blending the cafe culture with the relaxed vibe of beachside bars.
– Are there cafes in Varkala that offer live music or entertainment?
Varkala’s vibrant café scene includes spots like Darjeeling Cafe and Soul & Surf Cafe, where live music and entertainment are regular features, creating an engaging and lively dining atmosphere.
– Are reservations required at cafes in Varkala?
While walk-ins are welcome at most Varkala cafes, spots like the Darjeeling Cafe and Caffé Italiano might require reservations during peak times to secure a table with the best views.
Written By
Ruchit Rastogi
A journalism graduate, Ruchit has worked with Republic TV as a news writer before venturing into the world of travel with Flynote, covering both local and international stories. Off the clock, Ruchit can be spotted cafe hopping, indulging in his love for reading, cooking, or planning his next solo adventure. A wandering hermit at heart, his days are ..Read More
