We stumbled upon Village Inn Garden quite by chance while on our way to Thiruvananthapuram. Situated just outside the proper town center at Chengannur, the restaurant evokes a rustic ambiance. We were pleasantly surprised when we drove in a little past 2pm. There were small huts lined up on one side. We were slightly apprehensive too, because we had the place all to ourselves. Would the food be good, we wondered, as we placed our order, which was a simple Thali meal. The supervisor also said that fish, prawns, mussels and duck was the specialty there. We ordered fish and mussels to go with our order. Within seconds, plantain leaves were laid out and the pickles served. The curries and rice came and all of this took a little less than five minutes. We were impressed with the prompt service and dived straight in. And just a couple of minutes into the main course, other dishes arrived too. The food was yummy and tasted like it was cooked at home. The manager who dropped in explained that the kitchen works under the supervision of a local lady who is responsible for the traditional delicacies and a professional chef who takes care of the Chinese dishes. Even though the thali meal is the most popular lunch dish, there are many who go in for fried rice, chapatis and parathas. Chicken, duck, fish and other seafood are served here. Vegetarians get to taste the typical Kerala delicacies. Individual huts offer privacy. There is a small garden on the premises, enough parking space, and a swing, that will keep kids happy and engaged. You can stretch your legs and walk around a bit before you hit the long weary highway again. Where? Church Road, Near ITI Junction, Chengannur Meal for two will cost you about Rs 400.
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