5 Must-Try Dishes In Ooty And Where To Find Them

Nestled in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty has some of the best delicacies in the country, making it a go-to spot for food enthusiasts. The beautiful hill station is usually known for its landscapes and cool climate but it offers an array of culinary delights that reflect its rich cultural heritage.

From traditional South Indian fare to local treats, here are the top five dishes you must try in Ooty and where to find them.

Ooty Varkey

A quintessential snack of Ooty, the Ooty Varkey is a crispy, flaky pastry that locals and tourists adore. This delicacy is made from maida (refined flour), butter and sugar. It boasts a subtly sweet flavour. The best place to try Ooty Varkey is at the local bakeries that have been perfecting this recipe for generations. Jai's Kingstar on Commercial Road is a renowned spot where you can indulge in the pastry. Pair it with a cup of hot tea for a delightful experience.

Address: 54, Commercial Road, Upper Bazar, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001

Nilgiri Tea

While tea is not a dish per se, the experience of sipping Nilgiri Tea in Ooty is unparalleled. The cool climate and the tea plantations of the Nilgiris produce a type of tea that has a robust flavour. To enjoy the finest Nilgiri Tea, visit the Doddabetta Tea Factory and Museum. Here, you can not only sample different blends of tea but also learn about the tea-making process. The adjoining tea shop offers a variety of teas to take home.

Address: Dodabetta Road, Mel Koddapmund, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643002

Bisi Bele Bath

A hearty and wholesome dish, bisi bele bath is a traditional South Indian meal that combines rice, lentils, vegetables and spices. This flavourful dish is often served with a dollop of ghee and a side of crispy papad. In Ooty, Hyderabad Biryani House is known for its delicious take on bisi bele bath. Located on Commercial Road, this eatery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can savour this comforting dish.

Address: Hill Bunk Junction, Ooty-Mysore Main Road, Near Hotel Welbeck Residency, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001

Ooty Chocolates

Ooty is famous for its homemade chocolates which have become a beloved treat with visitors. The cool climate of the hill station is perfect for chocolate making, resulting in rich and creamy confections. Moddy's Chocolates, a well-known chocolatier in Ooty, offers a wide range of them, from classic milk and dark varieties to exotic flavours like fruit and nut, rum, and raisin. Located on Garden Road, Moddy's is a must-visit for chocolate lovers.

Address: 144, Garden Road, Pudumund, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001

Local Biryani

The local version of biryani here is often infused with the subtle flavours of the region's spices and herbs, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts. Earl's Secret, an upscale restaurant at the King's Cliff Hotel, offers an exquisite rendition of this dish. The biryani is prepared with aromatic basmati rice, succulent meat and a blend of local spices. It is served in a charming colonial setting with scenic views of the surrounding hills. This dining experience is perfect for those looking to enjoy a luxurious meal amidst the natural beauty of Ooty.

Address: Havelock Road, Police Quarters, Pudumund, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001