My friends are planning to start a small Kerala restaurant in Kochi with a limited, affordable menu.

The idea is simple — proper Kerala food without making it too expensive. We’ll have things like Kerala meals, fish fry, chicken/beef dishes, porotta, etc.

There are many names being suggested, and “Illam” is currently shortlisted, but we’re not completely satisfied with it. We’re looking for something short, catchy, genuine and rooted in Kerala, but not too traditional or complicated.

Some names we like the vibe of are Kudil, Thakkaram, Nellikka — simple Malayalam words that are easy to remember and could work well as a restaurant brand.

Would love to hear some unique Malayalam/Kerala-related name suggestions from you guys. Something that feels authentic and would suit an affordable, casual Kerala food spot in Kochi.

Open to old Malayalam words, local slang, food-related names, or anything with a nice meaning.

What would you name it? 🙌