Andhra Pradesh is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re looking for spicy coastal seafood, rustic Rayalaseema curries, or simple yet satisfying vegetarian meals, the state offers a culinary journey that’s deeply rooted in its cultural and geographical diversity. Having travelled across the state multiple times as a food and travel writer, I’ve experienced not just the dishes but the passion behind them—right from age-old family recipes to innovative café fusions.
This guide is a handpicked list of top restaurants and cafes in Andhra Pradesh that offer a taste of authentic local cuisine, along with a few culinary surprises. Each place has its charm, strengths, and areas of improvement—but every single one is worth a visit if you’re serious about tasting Andhra’s soul.
1. Subbayya Gari Hotel – Kakinada
What makes it special:
This legendary restaurant, started in 1950, is one of the oldest names in Andhra food history. Known for its “Butta Bhojanam,” a traditional vegetarian feast served in a basket made of leaves, this place feels like a ritual more than a meal.
What to try:
- Butta Bhojanam (basket meal)
- Mamidikaya pappu (mango dal)
- Gongura chutney
- Banana stem fry
What people love:
The sheer variety and flavors of the thali, served hot and fresh with generous portions.
What can be better:
The place can get extremely crowded during lunch hours, and service slows down. Avoid peak hours for a better experience.
2. Raju Gari Ruchulu – Vijayawada
What makes it special:
Don’t be fooled by its simple setting. This restaurant is a hidden gem. With a menu built on age-old recipes and spice mixes, every dish here feels like it was made in a grandmother’s kitchen.
What to try:
- Raju Gari Kodi Pulusu (chicken curry)
- Natukodi Fry (country chicken fry)
- Fish pulusu (tamarind fish curry)
- Andhra mutton biryani
What people love:
Bold spices, rustic presentation, and the balance of flavors that hits home.
What can be better:
The ambience is very basic. It’s all about the food here, not a place for a slow, relaxed dinner.
3. The Great Andhra Kitchen – Guntur
What makes it special:
In a city famous for its chillies, this restaurant celebrates the fiery side of Andhra food. The dishes are unapologetically spicy, and the kitchen makes no effort to “tone down” for tourists.
What to try:
- Mirchi Bajji
- Pachi pulusu
- Gongura mamsam (sorrel leaf mutton)
- Royyala vepudu (prawn fry)
What people love:
Authenticity in spice levels, attentive staff who know their dishes well.
What can be better:
The spice is not for everyone. If you’re not used to traditional Andhra heat, inform the staff beforehand.
4. Babai Hotel – Vijayawada
What makes it special:
An iconic tiffin place, Babai Hotel dates back to 1942. Even Mahatma Gandhi is believed to have tasted their idlis! Known for its no-frills breakfast and quick service, this is a piece of Andhra food history.
What to try:
- Ghee idli
- Upma dosa
- Pesarattu
- Filter coffee
What people love:
Melt-in-the-mouth idlis with generous dollops of ghee, and their legendary coconut chutney.
What can be better:
The place is almost always packed. Seating is very limited, and the décor hasn’t changed in decades.
5. Rayalaseema Ruchulu – Tirupati
What makes it special:
For those who want to try Rayalaseema-style dishes (a spicier and earthier sub-cuisine), this place is a gem. Located close to the Tirupati railway station, it’s popular among both locals and pilgrims.
What to try:
- Ulavacharu biryani
- Ragi sangati with natukodi curry
- Kheema dosas
- Paya soup
What people love:
Homely meals, courteous staff, and deeply flavorful curries.
What can be better:
Some dishes take time to prepare—inform the staff if you’re in a hurry.
6. Dharani Restaurant – Vijayawada (in Hotel Daspalla)
What makes it special:
If you want to experience authentic Andhra vegetarian food in an upscale setting, Dharani is the place. It’s perfect for families and travellers who want hygiene, presentation, and tradition—all in one place.
What to try:
- Andhra bhojanam (set meal)
- Vegetable pulusu
- Allam pachadi (ginger chutney)
- Tomato pappu
What people love:
Cleanliness, traditional interiors, and balanced meals that don’t overwhelm with spice.
What can be better:
It’s slightly pricier than local messes or hotels, but the comfort justifies it.
Pic Credit: zomato.com
7. Ethnic – Radisson Blu, Visakhapatnam
What makes it special:
Located inside a five-star hotel, this restaurant focuses on delivering authentic South Indian dishes with a touch of elegance. Great place for both corporate guests and foodies looking for something regional yet premium.
What to try:
- Nellore chepala pulusu (fish curry)
- Gongura lamb chops
- Andhra chilli chicken
- Kobbari annam (coconut rice)
What people love:
The blend of comfort and regional authenticity. Plus, they make excellent Andhra-style mocktails.
What can be better:
Pricing is on the higher side, given the location and ambience.
8. Atha Gari Ruchulu – Tirupati
What makes it special:
True to its name (meaning “mother’s flavors”), this restaurant offers food that’s comforting and packed with traditional flavors. It’s located close to many hotels and is perfect for visitors to Tirupati Balaji temple.
What to try:
- Kodi kura (chicken curry)
- Kakarakaya fry (bitter gourd)
- Brinjal curry
- Andhra tomato dal
What people love:
Homestyle food, good portions, and reasonable prices.
What can be better:
The décor could use some improvement, especially since it’s in a tourist-heavy area.
9. Brew n Bistro Café – Visakhapatnam
What makes it special:
If you’re looking for a place that serves both authentic Andhra snacks and continental dishes, this café in Lawson’s Bay Colony is ideal. It’s popular among students, artists, and young travellers.
What to try:
- Andhra chilli paneer pizza
- White sauce pasta
- Filter coffee and brownie combo
- Spicy egg sandwich
What people love:
Artistic interiors, live music, and an impressive fusion menu.
What can be better:
Service tends to slow down on weekends and evenings.
10. Café Terrase – Vijayawada
What makes it special:
Known for its rooftop setting and cozy vibes, this café is perfect for evening meetups or relaxed brunches. It mixes Indian and European cuisine with some regional twists.
What to try:
- Paneer tikka tacos
- Masala chai with murukku
- Andhra chicken burger
- Mocha milkshake
What people love:
Great sunset view, Instagrammable dishes, and quiet corners.
What can be better:
Limited parking space and seating fills up fast.
Tips for Food Lovers Exploring Andhra Pradesh
- Ask for spice levels: Andhra food is known for its heat. If you’re not used to spicy food, request a milder version.
- Try local pickles: Most restaurants serve a side of homemade pickles—don’t miss out on mango, gongura, or tamarind varieties.
- Lunch thalis are a treat: Most authentic restaurants offer extensive thalis during lunch hours, usually between 12:30 PM to 3 PM.
- Street food is amazing: While not mentioned here, cities like Guntur, Nellore, and Rajahmundry are known for street eats—especially mirchi bajji, punugulu, and dosa stalls.
Andhra Pradesh is not just a land of temples and beaches—it’s a land of fiery flavors, comforting meals, and passionate cooking. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for soulful meals or a non-vegetarian exploring spicy delights, the state’s food scene will surprise and satisfy you. These restaurants and cafés are more than just places to eat—they’re windows into Andhra’s culinary soul.
So the next time you’re planning a trip, make sure to skip the generic fast food chains and step into one of these local gems. Your taste buds will thank you.
Have more recommendations? Drop your favorite spots in the comments below!
