Welcome to the Andaman Islands—where the call of the ocean isn’t just for your soul but your palate, too! Imagine the aroma of sizzling fish curry wafting through a sea-breeze café, or the satisfying crack of crab shells under your fingertips as you dine beachside, toes in the sand. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie, a seafood first-timer, or a traveler craving authentic island flavors, Andaman’s unique seafood cuisine promises an unforgettable experience. Let’s explore the treasures of the sea waiting for you!

 A Taste of Andaman: What Makes It Unique?

The Andaman Islands are a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity finds its way to the plate. With influences from tribal communities, Bengali settlers, South Indian flavors, and the inherent freshness of island produce, every seafood meal is a celebration of taste and tradition. The bounty of the Andaman Sea ensures freshly caught fish, crabs, prawns, lobsters, squid, and more on every menu. The cuisine uses coconut, local spices, and tropical techniques—think curries, grills, fries, and smoky beach barbecues.

 Must-Try Seafood Dishes of Andaman

 Fish Curry: The Island Staple

Fish curry forms the heartbeat of Andaman’s kitchen. Local fish (like kingfish, snapper, or tuna) is simmered in a coconut-rich gravy, flavored with turmeric, chili, coriander, and sometimes tamarind. Each family and restaurant boasts a special recipe, turning this humble dish into an art form.

·        Best paired with: Steamed rice or roti.

·        Where to try: New Lighthouse Restaurant (Port Blair), Wild Grass Resort (Chidiya Tapu).

If you’re craving luxury, opt for grilled lobster. Locally caught and often cooked with a simple garlic-butter or lemon-butter sauce, the natural sweetness of the lobster meat shines through. Many beach shacks and upscale restaurants serve this with grilled veggies or rice.

·        Don’t miss: Lobster Thermidor at Seafood Delights, Port Blair; grilled lobster at Anju Coco Resto, Havelock.

 Crab Masala & Crab Curry: Rich, Spicy Goodness

Crab is another star on the islands, served mostly as Crab Masala or spicy Crab Curry. Freshly caught crabs are cooked in a tomato-based, aromatic gravy or a masala teeming with island spices. The dish is hearty, messy, and oh-so-satisfying.

·        Pro tip: Roll up your sleeves! The fun is in getting your hands a little dirty.

·        Where to find: New Lighthouse Restaurant and Seafood Delights (Port Blair).

 Prawn Curry & Coconut Prawn Curry: Creamy, Tropical Flavors

Prawns are the pride of Andaman’s waters. One signature dish is coconut prawn curry, where fresh prawns are simmered in creamy coconut milk with island spices. For the heat-lovers, try prawn masala or chili prawn curry for an extra punch.

·        Ideal for: Those seeking a gentle introduction to island flavors or a nostalgic taste of home-style cooking.

·        Where to eat: Anju Coco Resto (Havelock), Seafood Delights (Port Blair).

 Grilled and Tandoori Fish: Smoky and Succulent

Fresh local fish marinated with spices and grilled on open flames is a staple. For a twist, try tandoori fish—fish marinated in yogurt and spices and cooked in a clay oven, yielding a smoky, tender delicacy. Served with chutneys, this dish appeals to both Indian and continental palates.

·        Recommended at: New Lighthouse Restaurant (Port Blair), Anju Coco Resto (Havelock).

 Squid Fry and Cuttlefish Curry: For the Adventurous

If you love trying new textures, squid fry is a crunchy, spicy snack—squid is battered, spiced, and deep-fried till crispy. Cuttlefish curry is another local favorite, made with aromatic spices and coconut.

·        Where to find: Many local seafood shacks in Port Blair and Neil Island.

·        Great as: A starter or bar snack with a cold drink.

 Seafood Dining Destinations: Where to Eat in Andaman

The Andaman Islands offer a vibrant mix of laid-back cafés, beach shacks, and specialty restaurants. Here’s where you can sample the best:

·        New Lighthouse Restaurant (Port Blair): Famous for its fresh “catch of the day,” crab dishes, tandoori fish, and grilled lobster at affordable prices.

·        Anju Coco Resto (Havelock Island): Loved for butter garlic prawns, grilled fish, and an easygoing atmosphere.

·        Seafood Delights (Port Blair): A must for prawn curry, grilled fish, and creamy lobster thermidor, with generous portions and great value.

·        Amaya at Seashell (Port Blair): Great for crab cakes, prawns in lemon-garlic sauce, and rooftop sea views.

·        Wild Grass Resort (Chidiya Tapu): Famous for home-style fish curry, intimate jungle setting, and barbecued delicacies.

·        Fat Martin Café (Havelock Island): Local hotspot known for creative seafood snacks and fusion dishes6.

 Noteworthy Island Seafood Styles & Flavors

·        Barbeque Nights: Many resorts host evening BBQs featuring an array of fresh-caught seafood grilled over hot coals.

·        Continental & Asian Twists: Menus often feature international favorites—think lemon butter sauce, Thai-style curries, fried calamari, and more.

·        Tribal & Local Touch: Look for seafood cooked with tribal spices, sometimes paired with breadfruit, yams, or local greens for an earthy, authentic flavor.

 Pro Tips for Seafood Lovers in Andaman

·        Ask for the catch of the day: Menus change based on what’s fresh and in season—always a good sign!

·        Be adventurous: Try at least one new dish, whether it’s squid fry or lobster thermidor.

·        Pair with rice or local breads: Rice is the universal side, but many places also serve rotis, parathas, or crusty bread.

·        Book ahead at popular places: Especially in tourist season, top restaurants fill up quickly.

·        Got allergies or dietary restrictions? Just ask—most places are happy to modify dishes.

 Must-Have Experiences: Real-Life Stories

·        “Cracking open crab shells while the sun set over the Andaman Sea was an experience I’ll never forget. The spices were bold, the crab was fresh, and I felt like I’d discovered a whole new world of flavor!” — Traveler from Mumbai

·        “After a day of snorkeling, enjoying coconut prawn curry with sea views at Havelock’s Anju Coco made for a perfect island evening.” — Backpacker from France

·        “Squid fry became our go-to snack—a spicy, crunchy, and addictive dish we still crave back home.” — Couple from Kolkata

 Seafood Safety & Sustainability

Andaman’s seafood is largely sustainable due to its small-scale fishing practices and community-based management. Still, stick to reputable venues for the freshest, safest meals—avoid street stalls unless recommended by locals. Many restaurants highlight the origins of their seafood, and the use of local, eco-friendly ingredients is common.

 Conclusion

The Andaman Islands are a slice of paradise for seafood enthusiasts. Each meal here is more than a dish—it’s a story of the sea, a lesson in culture, and a chance to savor the essence of island life. From spicy crab curries to delicate grilled lobster, the feast is as endless as the horizon.

Ready for your own seafood adventure?
Let Fascinating Andaman Tours & Travels help you discover not just the sights, but the flavors of the Andaman Islands.