The Riverside Restaurant in Kollam - Lakeside Dining Experience

Kollam, KeralaRESTAURANT

A scenic lakeside restaurant on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam, specializing in authentic Kerala seafood and traditional dishes.

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Info

RESTAURANT

Info

1-2 hours

Accessibility

Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

The Riverside is a well-regarded restaurant in Kollam, known for its location right on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake. The setting provides a calm atmosphere, away from the city's noise, making it a popular choice for both relaxed lunches and scenic dinners. The architecture has elements of traditional Kerala design, with wooden accents and an open-air feel in parts of the restaurant. Diners can choose between indoor seating and outdoor tables that offer direct views of the backwaters. The menu focuses heavily on local Kerala cuisine, with a special emphasis on fresh seafood sourced directly from the lake and nearby coastal areas. You can expect classic preparations like fish curries, prawn fries, and the regional specialty, Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish steamed in a banana leaf). The experience is as much about the food as it is about the tranquil environment and watching houseboats glide by on the water.

Contact Information

Phone: -2751494

Why This Place is Special

• Authentic Kerala seafood specialties
• Dining with direct views of Ashtamudi Lake
• Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot fish in banana leaf)
• Traditional Kerala architectural style
• Fresh 'catch of the day' preparations
• Sunset views over the backwaters
• Peaceful and scenic ambiance

Ideal For

CouplesFamiliesFood loversGroupsSolo travelersPhotographers

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Seating areas
• Wheelchair access
• Bar/Lounge area
• High chairs for children
• Wi-Fi

Visitor Tips

• Book a table in advance, especially for dinner, and request a spot by the water for the best views.
• Visit around sunset (5:30 PM - 6:30 PM) to enjoy the changing colors of the sky over the lake.
• Ask the staff for the 'catch of the day' for the freshest seafood options.
• If sitting outdoors in the evening, apply mosquito repellent as a precaution.
• Try their signature dishes like Karimeen Pollichathu and the Alleppey fish curry.
• Combine your meal with a boat ride on Ashtamudi Lake, which can often be arranged nearby.
• Be aware that service can be leisurely, so plan for a relaxed meal rather than a quick bite.

Rules & Restrictions

• No outside food or beverages allowed
• Smoking is permitted only in designated areas
• Pets are generally not allowed in the dining area

Safety Information

• If you have seafood allergies, inform the staff while placing your order.
• When sitting outdoors by the lake, be mindful of your belongings and children.
• The outdoor area can get dark in the evening
• watch your step near the water's edge.
• Confirm the prices of the 'catch of the day' before ordering, as they are often based on weight.
• Drink only bottled water.
• Ensure your transport back is arranged, especially if you are dining late at night.

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Location & Address

The Raviz Ashtamudi, Thevally, Mathilil, Kollam, Thevally, Kollam, Kerala, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor seating. Evenings are ideal for the cool breeze and sunset views. While open year-round, the heavy monsoon months from June to August might limit the enjoyment of the outdoor setting. Dining here during the evening provides a particularly nice atmosphere with the lights reflecting on the water.
Peak Crowd: November to January, especially on weekends and public holidays, due to peak tourist season.
Moderate Crowd: October, February to March, and weekday evenings.
Low Crowd: April to September, particularly during weekday afternoons and the monsoon season.

How to Reach

Air

The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), about 65 km away. It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Kollam by taxi from the airport.

Train

Kollam Junction (QLN) is a major railway station in Kerala, well-connected to cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Bengaluru, and Chennai. The restaurant is about 5 km from the station.

Road

Kollam is connected by National Highway 66 (NH 66), linking it to Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi. KSRTC and private buses run frequently from major cities in Kerala.

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws are widely available for short distances within Kollam. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola can be used for more comfortable travel to the restaurant.