Best of AndamanBefore you hop to Havelock or Neil, take a day to explore Port Blair’s own charm. This island capital isn’t just a stopover it’s a place where food, culture, and community blend in the most authentic way. You’ll find some of the best food in Port Blair tucked inside small coastal cafés, seafood grills, and family-run messes that serve fresh catches straight from the bay. Walk a little further, and the shopping in Port Blair pulls you in with its mix of colorful markets, handcrafted souvenirs, and island spices that carry the scent of the sea. From beachside breakfasts to evening strolls through Aberdeen Bazaar, Port Blair has a rhythm worth slowing down for a perfect balance of flavors, sights, and stories waiting just beyond the harbor.
Where to Eat: The Food Trail 🍴
Port Blair’s food scene captures the island’s mix of coastal freshness and Indian comfort. Whether you’re chasing authentic Andaman special food or looking for a cozy café by the sea, this city serves both with ease. Here’s where to find the best food in Port Blair from local messes to modern hangouts.
A. Local Andaman Flavors (Authentic Eats)
1. Annapurna Cafeteria (Aberdeen Bazaar)
A long-time favorite for vegetarian travelers. Their thalis come packed with local flavors, perfectly spiced and comforting after a long day of sightseeing.
Must Try: Banana flower curry and island-style sambar rice.
2. New Lighthouse Restaurant
A go-to spot for fresh seafood with views of the harbor. The open-air setup makes it easy to relax while you enjoy grilled fish or lobster.
Must Try: Tandoori fish and crab curry two Andaman famous food staples you can’t skip.
3. Aditya Mess (Aberdeen Bazaar)
Simple, home-style meals served hot and fresh. Locals swear by this place for its honest, authentic taste.
Must Try: Fish thali and prawn curry flavorful, filling, and pure Andaman special food.
B. Modern Cafes & Instagram Spots
1. Something Different Café (Beach No. 2)
A stylish sea-view café with a mix of Indian and continental options. It’s relaxed, airy, and perfect for lazy afternoons.
Good for: Brunches, sunsets, and sea-breeze selfies.
2. Café Saltwater (Marine Hill)
Known for its strong coffee and soft music. The vibe is tropical but modern ideal if you want a break from traditional food.
Good for: Coffee dates, solo travelers, and evening chill sessions.
3. SeaShell Amaya (Hotel SeaShell)
An elegant rooftop restaurant with one of the best sunset views in town. Expect fine dining, island-inspired cocktails, and a calm ambience.
Good for: Romantic dinners and relaxed night-outs.
C. Street Food & Local Bites
1. Aberdeen Bazaar Street Stalls
When you want something quick and tasty, walk through Aberdeen Bazaar in the evening. You’ll find momos, fried snacks, and spicy chaat served fresh from the wok.
2. Junglighat Fish Market
If you’re curious about Port Blair’s seafood culture, visit early in the morning. It’s loud, busy, and full of life a glimpse into where the island’s best seafood begins.
Mini Tip: Most local eateries close by 9 PM, so plan your dinner early or reserve a table if you’re dining late.
Where to Shop: The Souvenir Hunt 🛍️
When it comes to shopping in Port Blair, think beyond souvenirs. The local markets here tell stories of seashells turned into jewelry, driftwood carved into art, and fabrics dyed in island colors. Whether you’re after unique keepsakes or casual clothes shopping in Andaman, the city’s bazaars and boutiques have something worth carrying home. Here’s Andaman shopping what to buy and where to find it.
A. Aberdeen Bazaar (The Heart of Shopping)
The real pulse of shopping in Port Blair beats at Aberdeen Bazaar. It’s a lively mix of colors, scents, and sounds — vendors calling out prices, tourists haggling, and locals picking up daily goods. You’ll find everything from beachwear and T-shirts to handwoven bags and spices that smell of cinnamon and clove.
Must-Buy Items:
- Shell jewelry and coral trinkets
- Coconut and bamboo handicrafts
- Local tea, coffee, and island spices
If you enjoy casual clothes shopping in Andaman, this is where to start affordable, fun, and full of variety.
B. Sagarika Government Emporiu
For those who prefer authenticity over bargaining, Sagarika is the best stop. It’s run by the government and supports local artisans directly. Every item here from shell lamps to wooden carvings is ethically sourced and beautifully made. Prices are fixed, quality is assured, and the collection gives you a true taste of Andaman shopping done right.
C. Local Boutiques & Handmade Corners
If you like quieter, more curated finds, explore these smaller markets and stores:
- Mahatma Gandhi Market: Great for local textiles, cotton wear, and island-themed jewelry.
- Andaman Handicrafts Emporium: Known for coral, pearl, and sea-shell based designs.
- Driftwood Carving Stalls (near Marina Park): Hand-carved art made from reclaimed wood each piece tells its own island story.
Mini Tip: Bargaining is common in local bazaars like Aberdeen or Mahatma Gandhi Market, but not allowed in fixed-price stores like Sagarika.
A Perfect Evening in Port Blair: Shop, Stroll, and Supper
If you’ve only got one evening in the city, here’s how to make it count.
Start with a slow walk through Aberdeen Bazaar, picking up last-minute souvenirs maybe some shell jewelry or island spices. As the sun starts to drop, head toward Marina Park, just a short ride away. The sea breeze, street snacks, and sunset view make it one of the most relaxed spots in Port Blair.
When hunger strikes, wrap up the night with dinner at SeaShell Amaya or Something Different Café. Both offer great food, sea views, and the kind of island calm that makes you forget time. It’s the perfect mix of shopping in Port Blair, local flavors, and easy coastal charm all in one evening.
Traveler Tips
- Best time to explore markets: 10 AM to 8 PM
- Payment: Carry some cash; smaller stalls may not accept cards.
- Food note: Local seafood is seasonal always ask what’s fresh that day.
- Sunday routine: Some local shops close early, so plan shopping ahead.
- Bonus tip: Evenings are cooler; save your market strolls for later in the day.
Wrap-Up
Port Blair is more than a gateway to the islands it’s a living postcard of flavors, colors, and stories. The food feels homemade, the markets feel alive, and the pace is just right. Whether you’re tasting a fresh fish curry by the sea or bargaining for souvenirs at Aberdeen Bazaar, the city leaves a mark that’s simple and genuine. You might come here for the beaches, but you’ll remember it for the people, the meals, and the moments that make every corner of Port Blair feel a little like home.
