Andaman is not just sun, sand, and sea but a foodie’s paradise as well.
It offers a rich, yet underrated culinary experience. From the freshest seafood straight from the ocean to spicy curries to tribal flavors, and finally coastal comfort food, Andaman has it all. Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)- no matter where you are, every meal is an adventurous journey in taste.
This guide presents a breakdown of this rich and exciting culinary experience on what to eat, where to eat, and how to enjoy the best of Andaman’s local cuisine-whether you are a foodie or just hungry after a long beach day.
Top Dishes You Must Try in Andaman
1. Fresh Seafood Platter
For people who love seafood, Andaman is heaven. Lobsters, giant prawns, squids, and reef fish are grilled to perfection with local herbs and spices.
Try it at:
- New Lighthouse Restaurant, Port Blair – Famous for Seafood Tandoori.
- Anju Coco Resto, Havelock – Most Popular Crab curry and Grilled fish.
- Fat Martin Café, Havelock – This cool place to chill with great seafood and smoothies.
2. Fish Curry and Rice
It’s pretty much staple comfort food made with fresh catch, coconut milk, mustard seeds, and local spices-and-the-soul-food-of-the-islands. Where to find:
Try it At:
- Annapurna Café, Port Blair (it’s a vegetarian restaurant, but it does sometimes have fish thalis)
- Full Moon Café, Havelock – Homely meals, island-style.
3. Coconut Prawn Curry
A rich, slightly fiery coconut gravy prepared with soft prawns; it represents the by and large coast-wise impact of South India and Southeast Asia.
Best Spots:
- Bonova Café and Pub, Havelock: Quite a hip ambience, and awesome food.
- The Bayview at Sinclairs, Port Blair: Classy dining, here, with a beautiful sea view.
4. Lobster Thermidor
Get this creamy, cheesy, and highly indulgent dish that has all the trappings of European influence and Andaman’s freshest lobster.
Best Spot:
- Red Snapper Restaurant, Port Blair India’s oldest seafood joints
- Something Different- A Beachside Café, Havelock-with its relaxed ambiance, offering globally inspired food options.
5. Barbeque Nights on the Beach
In such island destinations, beachside barbeques are popular where people grill fish fresh from the sea and serve them with chutneys and lime.
Best Spots:
- Neil Island’s Laxmanpur Beach: Many local guesthouses provide BBQ dinners
- Havelock’s Radhanagar Beach: consult the owner of your resort/homestay.
Vegetarian Options in Andaman
Ah, not worrying, vegetarians-the islands have adequate for you too!
Bengali thalis, refined and presented with rice, sabzi, and dal, are found in most of the neighborhood joints.
Doshas, idlis, those sumptuous South Indian meals are available more often than not in places such as Annapurna Café and Gagan Restaurant, Port Blair.
Paneer dishes, fried Chinese vegetables, and pasta is usual offerings in most cafes.
Island Sweets & Snacks
- Banana Chips
Come in handy especially fried and salted for that perfect beach snack.
- Coconut Ladoos
Usually made at home and sold in tiny local shops.
- Fruit Juices & Smoothies
Local juice stalls will have seasonal fruits like mango, papaya, pineapple, tender coconuts, etc.
- Samosas and Pakoras
There are several roadside stalls dotted here, particularly in Port Blair-crunchy and comforting after that ferry ride!
Street Food You Shouldn’t Miss
Port Blair’s Marina Park & Aberdeen Bazaar
When evening comes, these spots turn into famous food joints.
Must-tries:
Fish cutlets
Chole bhature
Momos
Aloo tikki chaat
Pro Tip: Go for crowded stalls: they serve better quality and trusted dishes.
Cafes and Hangouts with a View
Cafe Saltwater, Havelock – Boho vibes and beachside seating
Amaya Lounge, Port Blair – Rooftop dining and cocktails
Café del Mar, Havelock – Great coffee and island brunches
Local Beverages
Toddy (fermented coconut palm drink) – Occasionally available in remote villages (ask locals)
Local rum and beer – Available at licensed outlets, best enjoyed at beach resorts
How to Explore Andaman on a Budget
Dreaming of the beautiful Andaman beaches but worried about your pockets? Worry not, dreaming does not require a budget neither does a good trip.
Here’s a detailed guide for you to enjoy the islands without causing a dent in your pocket.
1. Travel During the Shoulder Season
Early June to April, and early November to September are truly the best time to travel.
This is when tourists thin out, and all hotels have the best rates and packages.
2. Choose Government Ferries Over Private Cruises
Although private ferries like Makruzz and Green Ocean are quicker and glitzy, government ferries are:
Cheaper
More authentic
Available on nearly all routes
3. Stay at Budget Guesthouses or Homestays
Instead of visiting posh and fancy resorts, go for:
Andaman Residency, Port Blair – spotlessly clean and budgeted accommodation;
Dew Dale Resorts, Baratang – eco-stay and homemade food;
TSG Blue Resort, Havelock – affordable and comfortable.
These resorts provide amazing deals that are best suited for your budgeted trip.
4. Eat Where the Locals Eat
In place of resort restaurants, local dhabas, and cafes, mess-style eateries with thali meals marina park food stalls, and Aberdeen bazaar.
Typical costs:
– Fish curry meal: ₹150-250
– Snacks/chaat: ₹30-60
– Juice/smoothie: ₹50-100
5. Rent Scooters Instead of Hiring Cabs
Available on Havelock and Neil Island.
Average cost: ₹400–₹500 per day
Perfect for beach hopping and exploring at your own pace.
Don’t forget: Carry your driving license and always wear a helmet.
6. Book Activities Wisely
Forget about overpriced packages. Instead:
Snorkeling at North Bay or Elephant Beach – usually part of regular boat tours.
Trek to Limestone Caves at Baratang – cheaper when done via co-travelers.
Free activities Sunsets at the beach, nature walks, and museum visits.
7. Carry Cash (But Not Too Much)
While cards work in major hotels, many local shops and ferries only accept cash. ATMs are limited, especially on smaller islands.
Keep change handy for autos, food stalls, and small purchases.
8. Avoid Last-Minute Bookings
Plan your ferry rides, accommodations, and popular activities (like scuba diving) **in advance**. Last-minute bookings can cost double or get fully sold out.
9. Pack Smart
Avoid buying essentials on the island — things like sunscreen, swimwear, and medicines are costlier there. Pack well to save money and stress.
10. Take Group Tours
Traveling solo or as a couple? Join shared group tours instead of private ones. They’re economical, fun, and great for meeting fellow travelers.
Available for:
Ross Island + North Bay Island combo
Baratang Island day trip
Chidiya Tapu sunset tour
Final Travel Tips
Respect the culture – especially near tribal areas or temples
Avoid plastic – Andaman is eco-sensitive. Carry a reusable bottle.
Stay connected offline – Mobile networks may be patchy. Download maps in advance.
Keep it slow – Island life is all about chill vibes. Don’t overpack your itinerary.
Call us now or book online to plan your island escape — the Andamans are calling!
