A Delicious Mess

For a true taste of home fare, wander down to this little food joint in Coonoor that is staffed entirely by women.

It's known to those who know it. And in some circles it is legend and the best-kept local culinary secret. Tucked away in a cosy corner of Coonoor, Annai Mess has been a beloved institution for over three decades, dishing out hot, homecooked South Indian meals with unwavering consistency to hungry hordes. This humble eatery is more than just a restaurant—it’s a landmark for locals and visitors alike, known for its affordable yet flavourful offerings.

Lunchtime here is a bustling affair, with crowds flocking in for their signature fish fry and fish curry meals, prepared with traditional recipes that have stood the test of time. Their biryanis are not to be scoffed at either, prepared as they are with a delicate mix of spices and a recipe that was formulated a long time ago and passed down through generations. The meals are mouth-wateringly good, cooked to perfection.

What sets Annai Mess apart, however, is not just its food, but the heart behind it. Run by women for the past decade, the establishment truly embodies the essence of its name - ‘Annai’ (mother) - with meals cooked and served with warmth and care. The women get together and prepare the food in a spirit of sisterhood, and the natural love and kinship between them seems to be the extra special spice that gets added to every dish that is served up, and makes it a must-visit for those who know it.

Affordable doesn't even begin to cover it, and you can eat here to your heart’s content without emptying your wallet - making it a culinary reminder of simpler times.

Next to YWCA, off Figure of Eight Road, Bedford, Coonoor