Calicut Paragon brings the true taste of Kerala to the UAE with its authentic South Indian dishes. You can enjoy flavorful Malabar biryani or rich, spicy fish curry that feels like it’s straight from Kerala’s backwaters.
Known for real, traditional Kerala cuisine, Calicut Paragon is a top choice for people who want genuine flavors made with care and passion. With several branches across the UAE, it’s easy to find and enjoy their famous dishes in many cities.
This guide will help you understand everything about Calicut Paragon: the popular menu items, standout dishes, typical prices, the restaurant’s atmosphere, the service, my personal experience, locations, and why many customers keep returning for more.
A Short History of Calicut Paragon
Calicut Paragon started in Calicut (now called Kozhikode), a city in Kerala, India. It quickly earned a strong reputation for serving authentic Kerala flavors and high-quality food. People loved the traditional taste so much that the restaurant grew in popularity over the years.
Because of this success, Calicut Paragon opened branches in the UAE to share the rich flavors of Kerala with a new audience. Throughout its growth, the restaurant has stayed true to its roots by focusing on traditional recipes and creating a warm, welcoming dining experience.
Calicut Paragon UAE Full Menu
Calicut Paragon’s menu highlights authentic Kerala and Malabar dishes. They use fresh ingredients and traditional recipes to create classic meals that truly reflect the rich food culture of the region. The focus is on serving real, home-style flavors.
Now, about the prices—Paragon offers good value for the quality and portion sizes you get. While prices can vary slightly by dish and location, most dishes are reasonably priced for dining in the UAE.
| Category | Dish | Description | Approx. Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starters/Appetizers | Chicken 65 | Spicy, deep-fried chicken bites with South Indian spices | 20–25 |
| Prawn Fry | Crispy fried prawns with Kerala spices | 30–35 | |
| Fish Fry (Kingfish/Neymeen) | Marinated kingfish, shallow-fried with masala | 25–30 | |
| Vegetable Pakora | Crispy fritters with mixed vegetables | 15–20 | |
| Masala Vada | Spiced lentil fritters | 10–15 | |
| Main Course – Non-Veg | Malabar Chicken Curry | Creamy coconut-based chicken curry with Kerala spices | 25–30 |
| Kerala Fish Curry | Spicy fish curry with tamarind and coconut milk | 30–35 | |
| Prawn Masala | Prawns cooked in a rich, spicy tomato-onion gravy | 35–40 | |
| Mutton Pepper Fry | Dry mutton preparation with black pepper and spices | 30–35 | |
| Chicken Chettinad | Spicy Tamil Nadu-style chicken curry with bold flavors | 25–30 | |
| Main Course – Veg | Dal Fry | Yellow lentils tempered with spices | 15–20 |
| Paneer Butter Masala | Cottage cheese in a creamy tomato-based gravy | 20–25 | |
| Vegetable Korma | Mixed vegetables in a mild coconut-based curry | 18–22 | |
| Biryani | Chicken Biryani | Fragrant rice with chicken, Malabar-style, served with raita and pickle | 25–30 |
| Mutton Biryani | Spiced mutton layered with basmati rice | 30–35 | |
| Prawn Biryani | Prawns cooked with aromatic rice and Kerala spices | 35–40 | |
| Vegetable Biryani | Mixed vegetables with basmati rice | 20–25 | |
| Seafood Specials | Crab Roast | Whole crab cooked in a spicy black pepper masala | 40–50 |
| Fish Pollichathu | Fish wrapped in banana leaf, grilled with spices | 35–45 | |
| Prawn Alleppey Curry | Prawns in a tangy, coconut-based curry | 35–40 | |
| Breads | Parotta (Malabar Paratha) | Flaky, layered flatbread, a Kerala staple | 5–8 |
| Appam | Soft, fermented rice pancake with crispy edges | 6–10 | |
| Naan | Soft tandoori flatbread | 5–8 | |
| Rice & Sides | Ghee Rice | Aromatic rice cooked with ghee | 10–15 |
| Coconut Rice | Rice mixed with grated coconut and spices | 12–18 | |
| Raita | Yogurt-based side with cucumber or onion | 5–10 | |
| Beverages | Fresh Lime Soda | Refreshing lime juice with soda | 10–15 |
| Masala Tea | Spiced Indian tea | 8–12 | |
| Lassi (Sweet/Salted) | Yogurt-based drink, sweet or salted | 12–15 | |
| Desserts | Payasam | Kerala-style rice or vermicelli pudding with jaggery and coconut milk | 10–15 |
| Gulab Jamun | Sweet milk dumplings in sugar syrup | 10–15 |
Paragon respects different dietary needs. Even though the menu is traditional, they often have options to suit special diets. If you have allergies or need gluten-free choices, just ask your server. They will help you find the best dishes for your needs.
Ambiance and Dining Experience
A. Decor and Atmosphere
When you enter Calicut Paragon, you’ll notice a warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor often reflects Kerala’s culture with subtle colors, textures, and artwork. The lighting feels soft and comfortable, making it a pleasant place to eat. The vibe is lively but family-friendly, perfect for all kinds of gatherings.
B. Service Style
The staff usually provide quick and helpful service. Even when it’s busy, they stay efficient. They know the menu well and are happy to suggest dishes or explain the food, especially if you’re new to Kerala cuisine.
C. The Overall Feel
Dining at Calicut Paragon feels real and relaxed. It’s not fancy or formal. Instead, it focuses on serving tasty, comforting food in a cozy setting where you can enjoy good company. You’ll feel welcome here.
Why People Love Calicut Paragon
Calicut Paragon is popular in the UAE for many reasons. First, they serve authentic Kerala flavors that make you feel like you’re eating right in Kerala. Their Malabar biryani is famous for being rich, aromatic, and full of taste — many say it’s one of the best in the city.
You also get great value here. The portions are large, and the prices are fair, making it an affordable choice for traditional Indian food. The staff are friendly and work quickly, which makes the experience even better.
The restaurant’s warm and lively atmosphere fits casual dining perfectly. People trust Calicut Paragon to deliver the same great taste every time, no matter which branch they visit. It’s also a top pick for families, thanks to the welcoming setting and menu options that everyone can enjoy.
My Experience
I recently visited the Al Karama branch of Calicut Paragon, and here’s what my experience was like.
I ordered the Malabar Biryani we talked about earlier, and also tried the Kerala Fish Curry.
The Malabar Biryani arrived quickly and looked beautifully presented—steaming hot with vibrant colours. The taste was exactly what I hoped for—perfectly spiced, fragrant, and rich with flavor. The Kerala Fish Curry was also delicious; I especially enjoyed the tangy kick of the curry and the fresh, tender fish.
The atmosphere was lively, with families enjoying their meals around me. Our server was friendly and quick, making sure we had everything we needed.
What I really appreciated was how fast the food arrived and the generous portion sizes that made the meal very satisfying.
My Top 4 Must-Try Picks:
Based on my visit (and what many others love), here are my top 4 must-try dishes at Calicut Paragon you should definitely try:
- Malabar Biryani: The classic for a reason—amazing flavour and perfect spices.
- Kerala Fish Curry: Tangy and spicy, it pairs wonderfully with rice.
- Vegetable Stew: A comforting vegetarian dish with mild spices and creamy coconut milk.
- Parotta: Flaky, soft flatbread that’s a perfect starter or side.
Calicut Paragon Branches in UAE
| Location | Address | Phone Number | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calicut Paragon – Karama | Mattar Al Tayer Building, 20 B Street, Al Karama, Dubai, UAE | +971-4-335-8700 | Open 24 hours (as per 2GIS) |
| Calicut Paragon – Al Nahda | Near NMC Hospital, Al Nahda, Dubai, UAE | +971-4-298-8858 | Open 24 hours (as per 2GIS) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common ones about Calicut Paragon in the UAE:
Q: Do I need to make a reservation?
A: If you plan to visit during busy times like weekends or dinner hours, it’s a good idea to book a table to avoid waiting. Walk-ins are welcome but might have to wait during peak times. Calling ahead can save you time.
Q: Can Calicut Paragon handle special diets, like gluten-free?
A: Yes, they understand different dietary needs. Just tell your server about any allergies or special requests, such as gluten-free options. They will help you find the right dishes or suggest changes to fit your needs.
Q: Is parking easy to find?
A: Parking depends on the branch. Some locations have their own parking spots, while others may rely on nearby public or paid parking lots. It’s best to check the specific branch location in advance to plan your parking.
Q: What should I wear?
A: There is no formal dress code. Most guests wear casual, comfortable clothes. Feel free to dress relaxed and enjoy your meal.
Q: Is Calicut Paragon good for families with kids?
A: Yes! The restaurant welcomes families and offers a kid-friendly environment. The casual setting and menu variety make it a great place to dine with children.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Calicut Paragon in the UAE offers a genuine, delicious, and accessible taste of Kerala cuisine. You find authentic dishes packed with traditional flavours, served in a comfortable setting with friendly service, all offering excellent value for your money.
It’s a fantastic choice for anyone craving real South Indian and Malabar flavours, whether you’re going with family, friends, or just want a satisfying, flavourful meal that feels like a true culinary journey.
I’m passionate about food and the rich culture of the UAE. I’ve spent years exploring authentic Emirati dishes and diverse cuisines from across the region. Through Habibi Menus, I want to make it easy for everyone to discover real restaurant menus, learn about traditional flavors, and enjoy the best food the UAE has to offer. I focus on sharing clear, simple, and helpful information so everyone can understand and enjoy the local food culture. When I’m not working on the site, I love visiting new restaurants and trying different dishes with my family and friends.