The Food of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The island beautified by white beaches, tropical trees, exotic wildlife, and of course mouth-watering delicacies, Andaman & Nicobar Islands is the ultimate paradise for food enthusiasts. From the island’s staple rice and coconut curry to juicy seafood preparations, satiating your appetite here will never be a problem! Barefoot at Havelock practices sustainability in our culinary ventures, ensuring food waste is kept to a bare minimum and adopting healthy recycling habits.

We offer a list that aims to bring to light the famous food of Andaman and Nicobar Islands that is often overshadowed by the beaches and other tourist destinations.

a greengrocer
daab chingri inside a tender coconut

Seafood


The talented chefs at The Swimming Elephant prepare lip-smacking seafood dishes using only the freshest ingredients to ensure you have an unforgettable dining experience. Check out our specialities like Bengali fish fry, Sarson Bata Machi, Aloo Bhaja and Jhuri Bhaja, among others. Exotic ingredients like lobsters and crabs are prepared using classic recipes, or according to your personal cuisine preferences.

lobster on a plate with garnishes
marinated fish

Mainland Influences


There is a long history of people from mainland India migrating to Andaman and Nicobar Islands. While crossing the Bay of Bengal, the people have brought their own customs, traditions and culture that amalgamated with the islands' locals. Most importantly, they have brought their recipes and culinary secrets. Hence, tourists can expect to experience a mixture of Bengali, Telugu, Tamil and many other cuisines while trying the many popular dishes on these islands. Some dishes from the mainland that have found their way to our restaurant in Havelock include Chicken Tikka Masala, Daab Chingri, Murg Malai Curry, Paneer Makhmali and Subz Diwani Haandi.

Options Galore


In Andaman, famous food can mean different things to people from different backgrounds. Those of Bengali origin will insist you have jhal muri, macher jhol and other Bengali dishes that have made their way to the islands. Locals who trace their roots to South India will recommend dishes like dosa, idli and other specialities commonly found in the southern part of the country. Whatever your preferences are, you are sure to have a hard time deciding what to pick from the wide range of options available here.

idli and sambar
mangoes hanging from a tree

Local Delicacies


Apart from the enticing mix of different cuisines, the locals have also been experimenting with their own unique spin on the fresh ingredients available across the islands. Homegrown vegetables, locally harvested seafood, and tropical fruits like papaya, mango and coconut also play a huge role in the native cuisine. A few popular dishes that you need to try are Banana Flower Subzi and Raw Papaya Subzi.

International Specialities


Guests at our resort can also indulge in authentic Italian cuisine. We import ingredients like Parmesan, Roma tomatoes and Kalamata olives to give you the bona fide Italian dining experience. We create homemade pastas like gnocchi, fettuccine and spaghetti and prepare classic dishes like Pasta Genovese, Chicken Parmagiana, Carpaccios, tiramisu and panna cotta. Our chefs also prepare traditional Neapolitan pizza using high-grade products straight from Italy.

a bowl of pasta
a cocktail garnished with a blackberry and mint leaves

Refreshing Drinks


Barefoot Bayside Brasserie is situated at a very prominent spot on Havelock Jetty and is the perfect place to grab a quick bite or drink. Guests can munch on modern dishes from around the world like Eggs Benedict, crepes, Bruschetta, Tapas, Mezze and assorted snack platters. However, the specialities at B3 are the drinks - from warm beverages like freshly-brewed Espressos and Cappuccinos to cocktails like tender coconut honey & rum and fluid rum tiramisu, we have it all at our restaurant in Havelock. 

Across Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and particularly at Barefoot at Havelock, food takes pride of place. Our chefs take inspiration from the local cuisine and the extra flair brought in from the mainland. We aim to offer our guests memories that you reminisce over for the rest of your life. If a delicious candlelit dinner under the innumerable stars with your loved one sounds like something you would like to do, contact us today! We promise an experience you will forever cherish. Planning to visit Havelock in winter? Read here to know more about what Barefoot at Havelock has in for you in winter.