Raja Ikka’s tea stall charms Jayasurya with pazhampori, beef and backwaters vibes

A wide stretch of backwaters in front, a warm breeze and a plate of comforting food to go with it ! Pazhampori or banana fritters, a bit of beef and a steaming cup of tea... It’s a simple combination, but one that leaves visitors craving more.

Plenty of places serve similar fare, but taste always varies. In the heart of Kuttanad, Alappuzha, there’s one such gem that stands out – a tea stall with a legacy of over 70 years. This is Raja Ikka’s Tea Stall, fondly known as Raja Tea Stall.

Actor Jayasurya and his wife recently stopped by during a visit to Kuttanad and shared pictures of the scenic backwaters and this tea stall on social media. His post sparked a flurry of comments and nostalgia, as many chimed in with their own memories of Raja Ikka’s tea and snacks.

“I didn’t stumble upon this place by chance,” Jayasurya wrote. “I had always wanted to visit a tea stall like this. While travelling through Kuttanad by country boat, a young man onboard told me about Raja Tea Stall and that’s how I found my way there.”

Despite its history of seven decades, the stall is still not known to everyone. Many tourists pass by without ever noticing it. But for Jayasurya, the food served here was unforgettable. “The flavours were so unique, you’d want to stop your boat just to taste it. The place has something truly special.”

The tea stall is located along the Alappuzha–Changanassery–Pallathuruthy route, more precisely at Chungam in Pallathuruthy, Alappuzha district. Jayasurya strongly recommends that anyone passing through should make it a point to have at least one cup of tea there.

He especially vouches for the banana fritters and beef, calling them 'must-try' items, best enjoyed with a cup of tea. Another classic combo is porotta with beef. And it’s Raja Ikka who single-handedly keeps everything running here.

Jayasurya has also shared an anecdote, “I love puttu. I saw some inside the glass shelf and was excited. I asked for it, but they refused, saying it was made yesterday. They could have let me eat it as it wouldn’t have made a difference to them. But they didn’t. They are all very sincere.”

Even before Jayasurya’s visit, the stall had its fair share of fans, with vloggers praising its charm and food. Now, with the actor’s endorsement in social media, Raja Ikka’s tea stall is drawing even more attention.