The Andaman Islands are known for their crystal blue waters, reed beds and coral reefs, but these are not the only attractions of this island. If you're here and wondering "What should I eat in Andaman?", then you're in for a treat as fresh seafood, coconut milk, Bengali fish curry and seascape cafes are the order of the day and make Andaman one of the best (and underrated) food destinations in the country. The food in Andaman is a reflection of its culture and geography. Seafood is a strong and dominant feature of the island's food, and the food is heavily inspired by the Bengali, South and North Indian culinary styles.
There's something to eat in Andaman for everyone - be it vegetarian, non-vegetarian or healthy. This is your complete guide to Andamanese cuisine, the best food to eat, where and what to eat, how much to spend, our guide to tasting the food of Andaman, and some of our favourite restaurants and cafes (Sea Dragon Restaurant, Nemo cafe and Mohwa cafe) to check out to enjoy the food of the island.
Quick Guide: Must-Try Food in Andaman
Dish | Best For | Flavor Profile | Approx. Price Range |
Fish Curry & Rice | First-time visitors | Comforting, mildly spicy | ₹250–₹500 |
Coconut Prawn Curry | Seafood lovers | Creamy, aromatic | ₹400–₹700 |
Grilled Lobster | Premium dining | Buttery, smoky | ₹1200–₹3000+ |
Crab Masala | Spice lovers | Rich, bold, spicy | ₹600–₹1200 |
Squid Fry | Appetiser/snack | Crispy, savory | ₹350–₹700 |
Tandoori Fish | Indian food lovers | Smoky, spicy | ₹400–₹900 |
Macher Jhol | Bengali cuisine fans | Light, mustard-forward | ₹300–₹600 |
Seafood Platter | Group dining | Mixed seafood | ₹1500–₹4000 |
Why Andaman’s Food Is Unique
Andaman's cuisine is fresh. Fresh seafood, often eaten within a few hours of catching it, is eaten, which makes it taste less fishy (and rather sweet) when you eat it in some restaurants than the frozen fish served in most Indian restaurants. The indigenous cuisine of the Andaman is also very distinct because it's diverse.
The Bengalis introduced rice and mustard (sarso) based curries and rice, South Indians introduced spice frying and coconut curries, and now the cafe culture has brought in both world and fusion food on the island. So the food of Andaman is a combination of tribal fish lunch, cafe-style lunch for sunset and grilled fish dinner for the dinner.
Famous Food in Andaman You Must Try
1. Fish Curry and Rice
Andaman's fish curry and rice is the favourite food of the tribals, who consider it a delicacy. Fresh fish is served with its gravy with onions, garlic, turmeric, tomato and other spices. It can also be cooked with the coconut milk to give a creamy texture. It's prepared with steamed rice, and the locals eat it as their staple food and have the taste of the island. Some restaurants may prepare it differently, where some use the traditional Bengali way and so add mustard; however, others may add coconut, as it is a common cooking style with South Indian prawns.
Best For: Travellers trying local food for the first time
Where to Try: Most local seafood restaurants and family-run eateries
2. Coconut Prawn Curry
Smothered in coconut sauce, prawn curry, and coconut curry, happens to be a favourite seafood curry in the Andaman. It is made with the curry leaves, mustard seeds, green chillies and spices and is therefore flavoursome and has a tropical flavour. It is a rich bua light dish and can be eaten as an accompaniment with rice or chapati. It is a favourite among the tourists.
Best For: Seafood lovers seeking classic coastal flavours
3. Grilled Lobster
Fresh grilled lobster is available as a delicacy in Athe ndamans. Lobsters are prepared in garlic butter, herbs and spices and cooked to perfection. Grilled lobsters can be found in the restaurants along the beach and on a special menu at wedding ceremonies. It is comparatively rich and so a little costly.
Pro Tip: Order grilled lobster during a beachside sunset dinner for the full Andaman experience.
4. Crab Masala / Crab Curry
Andamanese crab is creamy, delicious and filling. The crab is fried, but hot tomato-onion masala (gravy) or curry is added. The crab meat tastes sweet and is a delicacy mixed with the spices. Messy as it may be, it is highly cherished in the Andaman Islands.
Best For: Spice lovers and adventurous seafood eaters
5. Squid Fry
It is served in the Andamans either as an appetiser/side dish in most of the seafood restaurants or as a snack in other restaurants. It may be dipped into a paste and deep fried (to make it crunchy) or stir-fried with garlic, chillies and other spices (to make it spicy). The texture of the squid is very chewy. This is a good complement to other dishes. One can then have the squid as a tasty snack and a complete meal, just in case you are not a fish and prawns person. Since the squid tastes mild, the taste of the spices can come through to complement the squid flavour, and it's a great spicy snack. The warm squid is to be eaten with some of the sauce or chutney as a fantastic breakfast at the beach.
6. Tandoori Fish
Tandoori fish is the local delicacy of Indian lovers who prefer their seafood and fish. The dish is a product of marinating the fish in yoghurt, garlic, ginger, lemon and the spices and then grilling it until the skin is coal black. It not only provides it with a smoky taste but also makes the fish juicy and flaky. This dish is an amalgam of Northern Indian grilled cuisine and Andaman seafood. Onion rings and mint chutney are served to accompany the meal and make it a good meal.
7. Macher Jhol
Macher Jhol, curry is eaten in Andaman due to a huge Bengali population. Curry made using mustard oil, potato, turmeric, green chillies and spicy sauce. The dish is not as spicy as the Andaman coconut curry. The aroma is very strong, yet it's very light on the stomach. Most of the people enjoy this dish with rice and can eaten in the lunch and even in dinners.
8. Seafood Platters
A seafood platter is also a great option to try the different kinds of seafood in Andaman. This can consist of various prawns, fish, squid, crab and lobster grilled, fried or barbecued. A good choice for visitors to try seafood. They are typically served with chips, rice, salad and sauces. They are also served as dinner or lunch at beach parties.
Best Restaurants and Cafes in Andaman for Local Food
Sea Dragon Restaurant
Andaman is also known for its seafood, and the most trendy seafood restaurant is Sea Dragon. Sea Dragon is known for its fresh seafood platters, abundance of food and is favoured by tourists who seek local food and not the commercialised bulk-produced food. Sea Dragon has seafood specials like grilled fish, crab, prawn curry and seafood platters. This setting and menu make it ideal for the Andamans ' breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Recommended Dishes at Sea Dragon Restaurant:
- Grilled Lobster
- Crab Masala
- Fish Curry and Rice
- Seafood Platters
Nemo cafe
Nemo Cafe is a popular and attractive seaside cafe. You can have beverages, snacks, and light bites here, so it is a great place to go for an "on the beach" cafe-style lunch or dinner. It's also a popular spot for people to eat and drink seafood and watch the sunset in the evenings. The lively atmosphere is also enjoyed by people in groups or students.
Recommended at Nemo cafe:
- Squid Fry
- Grilled Fish
- Prawn Starters
- Refreshing Mocktails
Mohwa cafe
Mohwa Cafe is popular with those looking for a more laid-back cafe. This is a great menu and ambience to chill out with if you are a couple, solo traveller or even a nomad. It's a wonderful place for breakfast, lunch and snacks as it serves local and cafe food.
Recommended at Mohwa cafe:
- Breakfast Platters
- Light Seafood Meals
- Sandwiches and Snacks
- Coffee and Desserts
Best Places in Andaman for Food by Island
Port Blair
Port Blair has the biggest range of restaurants in Andaman, from cafes to seafood restaurants. This is the best destination for locals as well as tourists, to eat local food, Indian food and seafood island food. Came with the capital, Port has a lot of restaurants with different menus. Here you can get street food to seafood restaurant. For a first-time traveller in Andaman, you can start with Port Blair to explore Andamanese food.
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep)
Havelock Island (Swaraj Dweep) is the nerve centre for beach seafood cafes and restaurants. It is a common island for beachside barbeques and restaurants in Andaman. It's ideal for seafood lovers, date lovers, and the beauty of the island is enhanced by its landscapes. It is a favourite honeymoon spot. The restaurants are a combination of great food and fantastic views, providing the perfect addition to the experience.
Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep)
Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island) is less buzzing than Port Blair and Havelock when it comes to restaurants. They have quirky cafes, eateries and some peaceful sea-front restaurants. The island's cafes and restaurants serve both the island's cafe culture and cuisine. Tourists can enjoy writing about their trips, over cups of coffee, tea, light snacks and seafood, in the comfort
Vegetarian Food in Andaman
Andaman has the best of both worlds, with seafood as the main course and vegetarian delicacies. There is no dearth of vegetarian food, and restaurants are geared towards Indian tourists.
Popular vegetarian options include:
- Paneer Butter Masala
- Dal Tadka
- Vegetable Biryani
- Dosas and Idlis
- Veg Fried Rice/Noodles
- Pasta and Sandwiches
- Fresh Tropical Fruit Bowls
Average Food Costs in Andaman
Meal Type | Average Cost |
Budget Local Meal | ₹150–₹300 |
Mid-Range Seafood Meal | ₹400–₹900 |
Premium Seafood Dinner | ₹1000–₹3000+ |
café Snacks/Drinks | ₹200–₹600 |
NOTE: Prices may vary according to season and demand.
Practical Dining Tips for Travelers
- Always ask for the fresh catch of the day for the best seafood experience.
- Confirm seafood prices in advance, especially for lobster and crab sold by weight.
- Reserve beachside restaurants early during peak tourist season.
- Try local-style curries instead of only ordering grilled seafood.
- Request mild spice levels if you are sensitive to heat.
- Carry cash, as some smaller eateries may have limited digital payment options.
- Visit popular cafes during sunset hours for the best ambience.
- Check if seafood is seasonal, as availability can vary by time of year.
- Ask locals or hotel staff for hidden food gems beyond tourist hotspots.
- Stay hydrated and pair spicy meals with fresh coconut water or chilled beverages.
Discover the True Flavours of Andaman
The Andaman Islands are truly more than just beaches and water sports activities. With such a vast variety of cuisine and amazing flavours being available, it has gained the attention of the world now. Most of the people travel to this stunning island to experience the true flavours of the Andaman Islands. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options being vaiualable evryone can enjoy the unforgettable flavours of the Andaman Islands. As it is an island, it offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, which would be hard to pass up for many people.
Moreover, the dishes and culture create a whole new environment for the guests. The island itself turns into a fabulous place to exist with its unique cafes and restaurants, which are ready to serve you the true flavours of the Andamanese cuisine. Multiple popular eateries like Mohwa Cafe, Sea Dragon Restaurant, Nemo Cafe are located on the most stunning beaches, which will serve you the best dishes of Andaman Islands with exotic viess during your visit here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Andamans are definitely known for having fresher seafood than on the mainland. Food vendors usually buy their seafood fresh each day. So you can have a fish, prawn, or lobster that was caught in the past few hours. Fresh seafood has a sweet taste. And that's why the food in Andaman is delicious.
Andaman has seafood year-round, but the peak season is from October to May. It's a good time of year for fishing. There is more seafood around due to there being more people. Sometimes the monsoon can be a factor if it's poor weather. Some variation in the availability and freshness of seafood with seasons, and the supply of good-quality seafood.
Grocery costs are slightly higher due to transport. Seafood is perhaps more costly due to its freshness and scarcity, like lobster and crab. Inexpensive hotels and restaurants are available. Fine restaurants overlooking the beach and exotic seafood are expensive, too. So everyone can afford and enjoy their favourite foods.
Yes, there are many Jain-friendly restaurants on the main islands that are tourist-friendly. Most of the Jain-friendly restaurants are in Port Blair and Havelock. However, this is less frequent in remote places. So definitely specify while ordering. To some extent, restaurants will accept requests if given advance notice.
Andamanese foods can be spicy. Curries are generally spicy, in particular native curries and seafood masalas. But restaurants with tourists can most definitely make it less spicy. You can ask for an option with fewer spices. It will be more aromatic than spicy.
Yes, you can eat Vegan in most places in Andaman (tourist places). This includes a lot of Indian food (which can be dairy-free). You can also request South Indian (dosa, idli, coconut curries), which will be vegan. Smoothie bowls, fruit and salads might also be available at beach cafes. But you should check first.
Most restaurants and food outlets will be in Port Blair. Havelock has seaside, "posh" restaurants and cafes. Neil Island has laid-back cafés. Resorts can be classified according to food. The choice of food style depends upon variety, decor or romantic.
Street food is there, but not as much as in other cities. In Port Blair, you can find better street food around the markets. In other islands, you find that most of the food is eaten at cafes/restaurants. Snacks such as samosa, pakoras and fast food can be found. It is more about restaurants than street food.
Cash or digital payment is accepted in many tourist hangouts, but might not be accepted if it is a local eatery or restaurant not in the main town. Payment systems can be down, or UPI may not be accepted. It's a good idea to keep some cash handy for your dining experience in the islands. This is particularly true in rural areas.
The truth is, restaurants and cafes in Andaman, and even in non-urban areas,s serve alcoholic beverages. The beer, cocktails and hard liquor are readily available in the mid and high-market restaurants. In the cafes, beer will sometimes be served as a sunset drink. This might be situation-dependent. Prices are also slightly more than on the mainland.
If you're up for some local seafood, the platters are the way to go. Platters can also be shared with friends/partners. It includes restaurants' highly sought-after seafood. It is also a great way to taste different textures and flavours of seafood. Platters are a great option for tourists to enjoy the seafood delicacies.
There are a plethora of non-seafood dishes in Andaman. North Indian, South Indian, continental, Chinese and comfort cafes are also available. Most resorts have a vegetarian and chicken taster's menu. American-style toasts and smoothie bowls are also on the menu at breakfast cafes. People love eating fish, but it's not only fish in the sea.
Of course, breakfast and brunch are also in vogue in the Andaman, particularly in Havelock and Neil Island. The cafes offer breakfast platter, smoothie bowl, eggs, pancakes and coffee. But beach breakfast is a favourite among tourists and digital nomads. It's a cafe favourite on the islands. The cafes are packed early in the morning in the tourist towns.
Coconut water goes well with the Andamanese spicy cuisine. Local fruits are juiced, which are available, like pineapple, watermelon and mangoes. Most cafes beachside serve the usual mocktails, as well as lime soda. Hot and iced coffees are also offered at cafes. Seafood is best accompanied by cold drinks.
Tipping is not compulsory in the Andaman. Service charges are built in to high price restaurants. We add a tip for good service at small restaurants. Foreigners tip 5-10% for good service. Tip after being billed.
Book early for popular times, such as upscale seafood. There'll be a few spots for sunset beach dinners and romantic beach meals. In particular, at Havelock on Sundays and holidays. You may be able to walk in at lunchtime anat d weekends. Reservations guarantee good seats and no waiting.
Andaman's seafood is safe if you dine at top-rated restaurants with stringent hygiene measures. Andaman is also fresh. Visitors should visit high-pattern, "rated" restaurants. As with all seafood, barbequed in markets is to be avoided. Be safe and enjoy yourself.
Andaman has cafes or restaurants serving International cuisine. Such as Italian, burgers/pizza, continental breakfast and Asian Fusion. Major islands like Havelock have a number of cafes. So, international and long-term tourists can enjoy it. You can combine the foreign with the familiar.
Souvenirs from Andaman are spices, pickles, banana chips and snacks. You can also get seafood masalas and coconut products. These can be used to cook Andaman food. Make sure they fit airline and customs regulations. You can't take fresh seafood.
Andaman's food is special for its freshness and tourist attractions. Seeing the seafood cooked with a view of the setting sun. Life on the island is also makes it good. Andaman's food is not famous; this is a surprise, too. So, food becomes a part of the trip.