Food enthusiasts and everyday diners are in for an exceptional treat when Kerala Canteen opens its doors in Leeds and promises to change the city’s culinary landscape. Inspired by Kerala’s traditional toddy shops and the creative genius of award-winning chef Bobby Geetha, Kerala Canteen is a bold concept that will be a place to eat vibrant, shareable and authentic Kerala cuisine.
Concept: tradition meets innovation
Kerala Canteen captures the essence of Kerala’s beloved toddy shops where locals gather to enjoy delicious food, community and culture. Known for their relaxed, lively atmosphere and bold flavors, these establishments are the cornerstone of Kerala’s culinary heritage. At Kerala Canteen, this timeless tradition is reimagined for the modern diner, combining authenticity and innovation to create an experience that is both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.
Diners are encouraged to mix and match small plates, bowls and sides, which are served freshly prepared. The menu is designed to foster a sense of sharing and connection, bringing people together for a feast of delicious, aromatic dishes that showcase the diverse culinary traditions of the region.
Why this concept matters
Kerala Canteen is not just food; it’s about storytelling, culture and community. In a fast-paced world, it offers a moment to stop and taste authentic flavors, celebrate vibrant traditions and enjoy meaningful connections. Staying true to its roots and embracing modern sensibilities, Kerala Canteen offers a dining experience that is both immersive and inclusive.
In addition, the restaurant’s commitment to affordability ensures that exceptional food is available to everyone. With most dishes priced under £10 and no service charge, Kerala Canteen brings top-notch dining options to you in financially challenging times.
Meet the Mastermind: Chef Bobby Geetha
Kerala Canteen owes its unique identity to the vision and expertise of Chef Bobby Geetha. Bobby is a renowned culinary artist with over a decade of experience in five-star luxury kitchens. He has trained under Michelin-starred chefs and became a quarter-finalist in the BBC’s MasterChef: The Professionals program.
Bobby’s passion for Kerala’s culinary heritage is deeply personal and stems from his upbringing in Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. His journey from traditional kitchens to globally renowned restaurants fuels his mission to showcase the depth and diversity of Kerala cuisine on the international stage. Combining old recipes with innovative techniques, Bobby ensures that every dish at Kerala Canteen is a masterpiece.
Meet Chef Abdulkhadar Allingal Siddique: The Master of Kerala Cuisine
Chef Abdulkhadar Allingal Siddique, popularly known as Chef Abdulla, is a culinary virtuoso known for his expertise in Kerala cuisine and mastery of authentic biriyani. Chef Abdulla has built an impressive career at Michelin-starred Indian restaurants in London, the prestigious 5-star Taj Group of luxury hotels in India and the iconic Tharavadu in Leeds. He has earned a reputation as a local hero and a pioneer of Kerala flavors.
As the head chef of the Kerala canteen, Chef Abdulla now combines his authentic culinary artistry with the visionary menu concepts of Chef Bobby Geetha. Together, they create an innovative dining experience that honors Kerala’s rich heritage while bringing a modern twist to traditional recipes.
What’s on the menu?
Kerala Canteen’s menu is a love letter to Kerala’s rich culinary tapestry. Highlights include:
- Trivandrum Fried Chicken: A nostalgic dish inspired by Chef Bobby’s childhood.
- Beef & Bone Marrow Curry: A hearty favorite straight from the Toddy shop traditions of Kerala, made with flat iron steak.
- Green Goddess Cutlet: A modern vegetarian delicacy with Kerala colours.
- Jackfruit Curry: A regional classic that celebrates local ingredients.
- Pulled Duck Leg Mappas: A sumptuous take on a traditional Kerala recipe.
- For those with a sweet tooth, the desserts offer a creative combination of flavors including Cardamom Chocolate Brownie and Mung Dal Jaggery Payasam – a lentil sweet porridge from Kerala.
Kerala canteen: more than a restaurant
The Kerala canteen is a testament to the power of food as a cultural bridge. By bringing authentic flavors of Kerala to Leeds, Chef Bobby Geetha is not only elevating the city’s dining scene, but also fostering a deeper appreciation for one of India’s most diverse and tastiest cuisines.
Opening: Special welcome offer
To celebrate its grand opening, Kerala Canteen is offering 50% off food for the entire first month. This special offer, which does not include the already discounted combos and Saturday services, is a testament to Chef Bobby’s commitment to making premium dining accessible to all. Guests are advised to reserve their seats in advance.
Additionally, Kerala Canteen has introduced a loyalty program that allows diners to earn points for every kilo spent. These points can be redeemed for free meals, making every visit even more rewarding.
NOTE: You must be a member of the Canteen Club to receive the 50% discount, you can use the discount as many times as you like only Dinene.
Official opening date: 10 January 2025.
Location: 5 St Peter Street, LS27 8AQ, Next to Famous Kendells Bistro, Wardrobe, Aagrah Restaurant, BBC Yorkshire Building
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0113 242 3600
Five surprising things about hummus
