Kappa Chakka Kandhari (KCK) roughly translates to Tapioca-Jackfruit-Bird's eye chilli; the three important and nostalgic ingredients from God's Own Country - Kerala. Most of us are familiar with this name -KCK for another reason - a popular restaurant that successfully runs in Chennai and previously done few pop-up events in Bangalore finally marked their entry to Bengaluru's food scene. Located in Koramangala 6th Block, this restaurant is hardly 2 months old and always packed with people who love Kerala cuisine. I love the way they reinvigorated the simple Kerala homestyle (mostly Syrian Christian) cooking and Toddy shop food in the restaurant menu.
One of the co-founders and Culinary Director Mr. Regi Mathew have traveled the length and breadth of Kerala in a span of 3-4 years to find the best and extraordinary dishes clubbed with his childhood favorite food. Hence the result is different from other restaurants; here you won't see the usual Porotta and its accompaniments. If you have grown up in Kerala or atleast had a Keralite neighbor then you will be familiar with the terms like Mappas, Moilee, Pollichathu, Varutharacha, Roast, etc when you see KCK's menu. Toddy style food is mostly known as 'Touchings' (a side dish served with any alcohol - it could be simple chips/pickle to even beef roast/ spicy fish fry. KCK has successfully added some of our favorite touchings like Kozhuva (Anchovy) fry, Idiyirachi (Sun-dried Tenderloin crushed and tossed with shallots and curry leaves), Vazhappoo (Banana blossom) cutlet, Mutton coconut fry, Prawns Kizhi (Prawns in coconut masala (peera), wrapped and steamed in banana leaves). Kannan Kozhi Fry served with Beetroot sauce is a must-try dish; the free-range Chicken is braised and splash fried with crumbs of crushed chillies and other spices. If you are missing a glass of toddy, then go for the Absolute Kandhari/Nannari Sherbath/Morum Vellam (Buttermilk) with the touchings.
 |
| Nannari Sherbath |
 |
| Kozhuva fry |
If you visit KCK, don't miss their Ramassery idli served with red rice chutney and Sambhar. This dish is originally from a place called Ramassery near Palakkad. Chef told us a brief history of this dish which was once a favorite and convenient dish for local traders who had to travel and pack their food. The idli steamed in muslin cloth on a netted upside down earthenware reminds the diners that we should focus on our old traditions and techniques for simple, tasty and best food.
 |
| Mutton Puttu Biriyani |
Another favorite of mine was the Mutton Puttu Biriyani which had burst of flavors and the inhouse made rice powder makes all the difference; the Puttu just melts-in-your mouth. On my second visit to this restaurant, I tried their Prawns Puttu biriyani which had mild and unique flavors. Pidi (Rice dumplings in mild coconut milk) and Kozhi curry was also something unique from the menu and a dish you must try. I almost jumped out of joy when I tried the flavorful 'Varutharacha (roasted coconut masala) Kadachakka (breadfruit) curry and Chatti Meen Curry. This is best enjoyed with our simple white beauty - lacy appams. The guests can see their kitchen while dining, so don't forget to give a smile to the sweet ladies and gents who will be busy cooking.
 |
| Chatti meen curry |
 |
| Pidiyum Kozhi Curryum (Rice dumplings in flavoured coconut milk served with Chicken curry) |
Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, try their Signature desserts like 'Kandhari Ice cream' or 'Cloud pudding' (best tender coconut pudding I ever had). They even have 'Kol ice' - ice lollies (which takes you back to a different era for sure) and also popular puddings like Paalada and Parippu payasam.
 |
| My favourite 'Cloud pudding' |
 |
| Kol ice |
 |
| Payasams and Kandhari Ice cream <3 |
With the influence of Portuguese, Arabs, Chinese, Ceylon (Sri Lankan), Jews traders, and other communities within the state, Kerala cuisine has evolved a lot and it one of the most popular cuisines worldwide. Being a Malayali I could proudly say that, this cuisine can satisfy any palate with its simplicity and uniqueness.
 |
| With Chef Regi Mathew |
Overall I enjoyed my experience at KCK and waiting to go there again for another belting session (food nirvana). The staffs at KCK are very polite, and helpful. If you don't book in advance, then you may end up waiting for a long time to get a table, especially on weekends. Do visit this restaurant and let me know your experience at KCK. A meal for two would be INR 1500/- (approximately)
Address:
Kappa Chakka Kandhari
#438, 18th Main Road
Near Devi Hospital
Koramangala 6th Block
Bengaluru - 560095
For reservations, contact - 063646 71010
Follow me on Facebook - You gotta try it
Twitter- Soumya_Gopi
Instagram- soumyagopi
Instagram- soumyagopi
For any queries, collabs or feedback, call +91-9886771173 or send a mail to afoodiestrail@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment