Kochi’s new food street has it all, from pasta to vada, here's what to expect

Kochi: Food lovers in Kochi now have a new destination to explore, as Kasturba Nagar in Panampilly Nagar prepares to welcome visitors with a vibrant array of culinary delights from traditional pappadavada to authentic Italian dishes.

The new food street is being developed at Kasturba Nagar in association with the City Corporation and the National Health Mission, under the Central Government’s Food Street project. It will feature 20 kiosks, 10 with an area of 140 sq. ft and another 10 with 70 sq. ft.

Food streets are essentially the street-side version of the food courts found in shopping malls. A dedicated agency will be responsible for washing vessels and maintaining hygiene at each kiosk. Each stall will specialise in a particular type of food. For example, a dosa and masala dosa counter will serve only those two dishes. Other kiosks will offer exclusive cuisines such as Italian, Korean, North Indian and Chinese. The agencies operating these kiosks have been selected through a process of inviting expressions of interest, interviews and financial bids.

According to the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA), this selection process was designed to ensure high-quality food offerings. The final selections were made by an interview board comprising a Food Safety official, a culinary expert and GCDA representatives. The GCDA has confirmed that the food street will be under the constant supervision of the Food Safety department.

In addition to its diverse food offerings, the food street will feature essential amenities, including toilet facilities, a waste treatment system, and dedicated parking for visitors. The food street was inaugurated by Health Minister Veena George.