• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to Kairali Indian Foods

At Kairali Indian Foods, the rich culinary heritage of Kerala comes alive in Glenview, IL. This vibrant specialty food store not only offers a delightful array of authentic Malayali dishes, like Chicken Curry and flavorful Biryanis, but also provides an impressive selection of Indian groceries and spices. Customers rave about the exquisite taste and diverse offerings, with highlights including freshly made Porottas and unique pickles. The friendly staff contributes to an inviting shopping experience, making it a favorite spot for locals seeking delectable flavors and quality ingredients reminiscent of Kerala's culinary traditions.

Kairali Indian Foods: Reviews & Ratings

Chris V.
Chris V.

Really good Malayali food. They chicken curry and biryanis are my favorite. Really good flavors and not too spicy so it works for everyone.

Stella W.
Stella W.

We got some premade Indian food, sooo tasty! They offer varieties that I haven't seen in typical Indian restaurants! There are also tons of Indian groceries, seasonings, mixes, and premade batter for Indian 'bread'. I wish I know how to make idli as that's one of my faves and they sell idli batter!

Nithin J.
Nithin J.

New ownership is great, they've changed the whole outlook of the store. Meat samosas and puffs are the best! I Love the store!!

John V.
John V.

Love their food. The non veg items little costly and have a funny taste like sweet&sour. You get good indian fish like kingfish, mackrel and many others.

Bill T.
Bill T.

Cram-packed in a small store with five short narrow aisles and a frozen case along a wall, an excellent selection of Indian groceries. About 75% of the items are more generic Indian things that can be readily found in the (considerably larger) stores on Devon Avenue in Chicago: for example, a full selection of dals - chana dal, toor dal, masoor dal, urad dal, etc. Sooji, broken wheat, coconut items, ragi and rice flour for puttu... The remaining 25% lives up to the store's name and premise: specialties of Kerala. A particularly good selection of pickles, more than half of them bottled in Kerala, such items as roasted coconut mix powder, an assortment of sambar powders and mixes, and prepared sambars; bilimbi pickle, and of course many varieties of mango pickle most of which I haven't seen elsewhere. Good selection of boxed mixes (for fish curries etc.). The frozen case, in addition to the usual drumsticks and tinda, includes banana flower curry, cherupayaru (banana peel) curry, South Indian dried shrimp-based curry mixes, several kinds of prepared puttu, readymade porottas, and more. Understandably for its restricted market, what we don't see in this store is much in the way of fresh produce: no chili peppers or mangoes for example. The frozen case did have finger peppers, and I did buy some specially fresh young curry leaves. I went out on a limb and asked if they had nag kesar, true tej patta, or toddy vinegar: they did not - but that's hardly a strike against them: I haven't found any of these three items anywhere on Devon Avenue, and nag kesar is not a special South Indian item anyway. To the store's credit, the bay leaf they sell was not marked "tej patta"- which contrasts sharply with elsewhere in the Chicago area, where I've even been told that there is no such thing as cinnamon leaf (the true tej patta). [Note: although Indian toddy vinegar has so far eluded me in the Chicago area, Philippine stores routinely carry the equivalent coconut vinegar.] When I dropped in, noon on a Wednesday, there were only 3 store-prepared items for sale: plantain fritters, urad dal vada, pinched yellow moong dal vada. I bought all three, they were all good if nothing to write home about. The storekeepers were friendly and helpful. If I lived nearby, or drove, I would shop here regularly.

Jacob J.
Jacob J.

South Indian grocery store that offers many Indian grocery staples. Also offering prepared foods, chilled and frozen goods, South Indian butcher favorites and I think they might honor a request to make marinated meats. I.e Tandoori chicken for grilling, or other South Indian favorites. I'm sure a person could ask for chicken 65 or chili chicken and they may try to oblige. (My fellow Americans, if you'd like to wow a backyard barbecue, then why not order some marinated tandoori chicken) Recently, a cousin moved into the area and I wanted to stop by with some goodies. I'd originally planned to order Indian takeout, but after getting to the area, I realized I'd have to drive some distance to find a decent restaurant. (It just so happens, that there are a few South Indian caterers that have shops in this area. However, this one has the best operating hours.) So, me and Ma stopped in. She needed some grocery items (score!) so this cancelled out a grocery run I'd have to do for her, later, back in Chicago. The store clerks spoke Malayalam and were personable whether spoken to in English or their own language. An area near the counter had a display case full of catered goodies, I believe were prepared in house. Items like: veg and meat samosa, banana treats, beef cutlets and other Indian favorites. These carried a minimal per piece cost. I.e. 60 cents to $1/$2. In the refrigerated cases I found, Avial, fish moilly, mutton fry, beef fry, kappa, butter chicken and more. As well as some breads like fresh paratha ("porota"). Many of these entrees could serve 3 - 4 people and carried a cost of $7 - $10 dollars. I was surprised to find that the prepared items tasted good. If this shop were local to me, this would be a consideration when looking to buy some prepared Indian foods. Shoutouts to the Keralites and the malus!

Gerry G.
Gerry G.

We picked up prepared food for carry out (the only way they sell it.) It's a grocery store that happens have a kind of "chef's choice" system, so you're limited to whatever has been prepared. It's damn cheap compared to other take-out places, Indian or otherwise. I paid $20 for about 3 to 4 meals worth of food. Food is placed in containers on a cart, kept at room temperature. I can't imagine how this would pass a food safety inspection--if the health department even knows they're selling prepared food here. If you're Indian, you'll probably have no trouble identifying the items, but between the heavy accent of the nice (owner?), my ignorance, and messy handwriting, it's a bit of a gamble. Given the questionable food safety, I opted for mostly vegetarian choices with the exception of the samosas. The dal masala was amazing, if fiery hot. It reminded me of the best butter chicken I've tasted. I got some other unidentifiable vegetarian entree that was not quite as good, though still enjoyable. The meat samosas were a little weird, but the vegetable ones were quite decent--neither of which was as good as elsewhere. The Indian (tortillas? definitely not naan) were amazing and I wish I got more of them. Kind of a rubbery texture in a good way. Now, honestly, I'm a bit afraid to return--I feel like I gambled here with my GI system and happened to come out ahead. I wish they kept things at least under a heat lamp, if not served as needed from warming trays. Just don't say I didn't warn you!

T T.
T T.

Best place around to get authentic Kerala groceries, price is reasonable compared to other Indian grocery stores. They serve decent mallu food. Better to call and check the menu and availability. Only take out.

Location

Welcome to Kairali Indian Foods, a culinary gem nestled in Glenview, Illinois, dedicated to bringing the rich and diverse flavors of Kerala directly to your plate. With an inviting atmosphere and accessible services, this specialty food establishment offers an exceptional dining experience, whether you choose to dine in or take out.

Located conveniently at 777 Milwaukee Ave, Glenview, IL 60025, Kairali Indian Foods is more than just a restaurant; it is a hub for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Malayali cuisine. With options like Android Pay, Apple Pay, and even Cryptocurrency accepted, convenience is at the forefront of their service. Moreover, their space is wheelchair accessible and features gender-neutral restrooms, ensuring a welcoming environment for all guests.

One of the standout features of Kairali is their enticing menu, filled with mouthwatering dishes that promise to please every palate. Customers rave about the Chicken Curry and various Biryani options that showcase the harmonious blend of spices typical of Kerala's coastal cooking.

  • Fried Rice Meals: A selection ranging from the inexpensive Vegetable Fried Rice to the rich and flavorful Shrimp Biryani.
  • Lunch and Dinner Specials: Indulge in succulent options like Butter Chicken and Chili Pork, all served with fragrant fried rice at just $8.
  • Kerala Special Meals: Experience the beloved Porotta with Beef Fry for a true taste of local culture, perfect for those seeking something unique.

What sets Kairali Indian Foods apart is their commitment to authenticity. Customer highlights include the expansive selection of Kerala specialties, such as an array of pickles that are difficult to find elsewhere. Alongside delicious takeout options, they offer a variety of groceries and ingredients, making it easier for fans of Indian cuisine to venture into their own culinary explorations at home.

Client reviews echo the delight of dining here. Chris V. expresses, “The flavors are really good and not too spicy, making it a great option for everyone.” Meanwhile, Stella W. celebrates the premade offerings and rare finds, like idli batter—the mark of a true Kerala kitchen.

At Kairali Indian Foods, each dish is a testament to Kerala's rich culinary tradition. Whether you are a long-time lover of Indian cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, Kairali invites you to embark on a flavorful journey through the vibrant heart of Kerala. With tasty and meticulously prepared meals, it's an experience you won’t want to miss!

Ready to experience the flavors of Kerala? Call (847) 729-2100 to place your order or visit them today!