Food in Cherpunkal reflects classic Central Travancore Syrian Christian culinary traditions, characterized by the generous use of coconut, spices, and locally sourced meats and fish.
- **Local Cuisine**: Staples include *Appam* with mutton or vegetable stew, *Puttu* (steamed rice cake) with *Kadala* (black chickpea) curry, and the iconic *Karimeen Pollichathu* (pearl spot fish roasted in banana leaves). - **Eateries and Thattukadas**: Small, informal street-side stalls (*thattukadas*) and family-run restaurants operate near the church and hospital, offering affordable, traditional Kerala meals, fresh parottas, and local snacks like banana fritters (*pazham pori*). - **Hospital Cafeterias**: Mar Sleeva Medicity houses large, modern food courts serving a variety of South Indian, North Indian, and continental dishes for visitors and staff.