Food lovers in Leeds are about to embark on a unique culinary journey as Kerala Canteen opens its doors in the city. This exciting new restaurant offers a reimagined take on Kerala’s iconic toddy shop culture, blending traditional flavours with modern dining concepts. With the innovative vision of award-winning chef Bobby Geetha, Kerala Canteen is set to become a hotspot for anyone seeking vibrant, shareable dishes that showcase the authentic taste of Kerala.
A Modern Take on a Kerala Tradition
Inspired by Kerala’s celebrated toddy shops, Kerala Canteen brings the spirit of these lively, community-focused establishments to Leeds. Known for their bold flavours and casual atmosphere, toddy shops have been a staple of Kerala’s culinary heritage. At Kerala Canteen, the essence of these traditional venues is modernised for today’s discerning diners, creating an immersive experience that celebrates both the culture and flavours of the region.
The concept encourages diners to share and savour a variety of small plates, bowls, and sides, with dishes prepared fresh and served as they’re ready. The menu is designed to bring people together, offering a feast of aromatic and hearty dishes that showcase Kerala’s diverse and rich culinary traditions.
A Dining Experience Rooted in Culture and Community
More than just a restaurant, Kerala Canteen offers a space to connect with both food and culture. In a fast-paced world, it provides a moment to enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine in a relaxed, welcoming setting. By honouring the roots of Kerala’s culinary history while embracing modern trends, Kerala Canteen creates a dining experience that is both nostalgic and contemporary. The restaurant also makes exceptional food accessible to all, with most dishes priced under £10 and a zero-service charge policy.
Meet the Visionary Behind Kerala Canteen: Chef Bobby Geetha
Kerala Canteen is the brainchild of Chef Bobby Geetha, a celebrated culinary artist whose impressive career includes training under Michelin-starred chefs and being a quarter-finalist on BBC’s MasterChef: The Professionals. Born and raised in Trivandrum, Kerala’s capital, Bobby’s passion for his homeland’s food culture runs deep. His diverse experiences across luxury kitchens worldwide have shaped his desire to bring the flavours of Kerala to an international audience. Through Kerala Canteen, Bobby blends time-honoured recipes with modern cooking techniques, ensuring that each dish is a work of art.
Chef Abdulla: Master of Authentic Kerala Cuisine
Joining forces with Chef Bobby is Chef Abdulkhadar Allingal Siddique, also known as Chef Abdulla, a local culinary legend known for his expertise in traditional Kerala dishes, particularly his renowned biryani. With a career that spans Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels, Chef Abdulla’s mastery of Kerala’s cuisine brings authenticity to Kerala Canteen. As Head Chef, he combines his vast experience with Bobby’s visionary concepts to create an innovative menu that honours Kerala’s culinary heritage.
Discover Kerala’s Flavours at Kerala Canteen
The menu at Kerala Canteen is a celebration of Kerala’s rich culinary history. Highlights include:
- Trivandrum Fried Chicken: A nostalgic dish inspired by Chef Bobby’s childhood in Kerala.
- Beef & Bone Marrow Curry: A traditional Kerala favourite, reimagined with flat iron steak.
- Green Goddess Cutlet: A modern vegetarian dish with a Kerala-inspired twist.
- Jackfruit Curry: A dish that highlights one of Kerala’s most beloved local ingredients.
- Pulled Duck Leg Mappas: A luxurious take on a classic Kerala recipe.
For dessert, guests can indulge in Cardamom Chocolate Brownie or Mung Dal Jaggery Payasam, a traditional Kerala lentil sweet porridge.
Grand Opening Offer: Celebrate with Kerala Canteen
To mark its grand opening, Kerala Canteen is offering a 50% discount on all food throughout the first month, excluding discounted combo deals and Saturday services. This offer is a reflection of Chef Bobby’s commitment to making high-quality dining accessible to all. Guests can also take advantage of a loyalty program, where diners earn points for every pound spent, which can be redeemed for free meals.
Official Opening Date: 10th January 2025.
Visit Kerala Canteen and Experience Authentic Kerala Cuisine
Kerala Canteen isn’t just about food; it’s about embracing Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and offering it to the people of Leeds. With its fresh take on traditional recipes and a commitment to providing a unique dining experience, Kerala Canteen is sure to become a beloved destination in the city. Visit today and experience the magic of Kerala like never before.
