We started off with ulli vada and tea, a classic combo to warm up the appetite. Then came palappam with chemmeen roast — the gravy was absolutely delicious, though the prawns had a slight frozen flavor. Finally, the paal porotta stole the show — soft, rich, and perfectly layered. Easily the best part of the meal!
Overview
If you're in Berlin and craving a taste of South India, look no further than Nila South Indian - Kerala Restaurant. Nestled in the heart of Akazienstraße 3, 10823 Berlin, Germany, this restaurant offers a delightful array of Kerala-inspired dishes that will transport you straight to the southern shores of India. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Nila promises a rich, authentic experience that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Kerala region.
The first thing that strikes you when entering Nila is the warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant blends traditional Indian decor with a modern touch, creating a comfortable yet lively space. As soon as you step in, you’re greeted with the tantalizing aroma of spices filling the air, setting the stage for the culinary adventure ahead.
The menu at Nila is a true celebration of Kerala's rich culinary heritage. Kerala cuisine is known for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors, often incorporating coconut, spices, and seafood. One of the highlights is the Kerala Sadya, a traditional feast that brings together an array of dishes, from spicy curries to aromatic rice. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the variety Kerala cuisine has to offer, and it's served just like it would be at a local home in southern India.
For the seafood lovers, Nila does not disappoint. The Kerala Fish Curry is an absolute must-try, with tender fish swimming in a flavorful, tangy gravy made with tamarind, coconut milk, and a secret blend of spices. The balance of spices in this dish is perfection, offering just the right amount of heat and richness. Another standout is the Appam with Stew, a traditional Kerala pancake paired with a delicately spiced vegetable stew. It’s a popular dish in the region and one of the restaurant’s signature offerings.
If you're looking for something lighter, the Vegetarian Thali is an excellent choice. This platter features a variety of vegetable dishes served with rice, pickles, and curd - all infused with the distinct spices of Kerala. It's a wholesome, satisfying meal that caters to all tastes, from the mild to the spicy.
But it’s not just the food that makes Nila special. The service here is exceptional, with the staff always eager to share their knowledge of the menu and recommend dishes based on your preferences. The authenticity of the food paired with the friendly, attentive service creates an atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
Nila also stands out for its commitment to quality and sustainability. The ingredients are carefully selected, with an emphasis on freshness and authenticity. The kitchen takes pride in preserving traditional cooking techniques while also embracing modern culinary innovations. This balance allows for a menu that feels both familiar and exciting, offering a true taste of Kerala right in the heart of Berlin.
If you’re planning a visit, you’ll find Nila conveniently located at Akazienstraße 3, just a short walk from public transport links. The cozy, laid-back vibe makes it an ideal spot for a casual meal with friends, a family gathering, or even a romantic dinner. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality and quantity of food served, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy an authentic Kerala meal without breaking the bank.
The reviews speak for themselves, with many customers praising the restaurant for its delicious food, generous portions, and welcoming atmosphere. It’s no wonder that Nila South Indian - Kerala Restaurant has become a beloved spot for food lovers in Berlin. The authentic flavors, excellent service, and inviting ambiance make it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the tastes of South India.
So, whether you’re a Kerala food enthusiast or a newcomer to the cuisine, Nila offers a dining experience that’s sure to impress. With its exceptional food and warm hospitality, it's a gem in Berlin’s vibrant dining scene.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Kerbside pickup ✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Great tea selectionPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ All you can eat ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Halal food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Tourists ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed ✓ Dogs allowed inside ✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 2300 reviews
The food was absolutely delicious—every bite was full of flavor. The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and welcoming. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a authentic kerala dining experience!
The place definitely lived up to its billing when it came to the South Indian dishes. The Masala jackfruit in maincourse was the highlight for me (which was promised to be spici-er, but sadly wasn’t), but Paneer butter masala almost felt like dessert. Masala dosa was also nice, with Sambhar being distinctive and dense (not watery, thankfully) and our friends liked their Chicken biryani as well. The place isn’t so big, with about 10 tables indoors in winter. But what they lack in space is more than made up by the warmth of the staff.
Ordered Chattichoru, Porotta with Beef, and a hot chaaya.... and oh boy, I was instantly transported from Germany straight to Kerala! The Chattichoru was a full festival....spicy beef curry, crispy chicken fry, flavourful fish curry, juicy squid fry, and a perfectly fried egg omelette on top. Every bite screamed mom’s touch....Porotta was soft and flaky, beef curry was emotional, and the tea had that perfect chaaya kada punch..... Nila isn’t just a restaurant ....it’s pure nostalgia served on a plate..Highly recommend to every homesick Malayali in Germany!
I recently visited this Nila restaurant and was blown away by the food and service. The flavors were authentic, perfectly balanced, and beautifully presented. Every dish was fresh and full of spices that brought out the true taste of India. The staff was warm and welcoming, making us feel at home from the moment we walked in. The service was quick, attentive, and friendly without being intrusive. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Prices were reasonable considering the quality and portion sizes. Highly recommended for anyone who loves authentic Indian food — I’ll definitely be coming back!
My wife and I had a reservation on 03 October Friday evening. Restaurant was very busy. We ordered our food which took 1 hour 10 mins before it was served. But as soon as we grabbed our first bite, everything else was forgotten because food was absolutely delicious . Great Beef roast, Parotta , Fish curry and palappam was so scrumptious. Thank you for the experience and wishing you all the best for the business.
Paalporotta beef was excellent. The chicken soup was quite liquid with just a little bit of chicken - wouldn't order again.
Amazing good, amazing stuff, finally authentic Indian food, high quality. Try there speciality palporotta chicken. Masala dosa is also very good. Mango lassi - best I had in Berlin.