Welcome to ILLAM Restaurant- South Indian Kitchen
ILLAM Restaurant- South Indian Kitchen, nestled in the heart of Harrogate, offers an extraordinary journey into the vibrant flavors of South India. Renowned for its authentic dishes served with a creative flair, this family-run establishment boasts a menu that features delectable options like Dosa, Biryani, and the standout Idli Chaat, which layers soft idlis with tangy chutneys. With a focus on quality and exceptional service, guests can expect a warm atmosphere complemented by attentive staff. Each dish, from the Malabari Fish to uniquely crafted vegetarian options, is a celebration of rich spices and culinary expertise, making ILLAM a must-visit for food lovers seeking an unforgettable dining experience.
- 12 King's Rd, Harrogate HG1 1BT, United Kingdom Hotline: +44 1423 553991
Welcome to ILLAM Restaurant - South Indian Kitchen, an exquisite dining destination nestled in the heart of Harrogate at 12 King's Rd, HG1 1BT, United Kingdom. Here, the rich tapestry of South Indian culinary traditions is brought to life, offering a menu that tantalizes the senses and embraces the essence of authentic flavors.
Every meal at ILLAM feels like a celebration of South India’s diverse gastronomic heritage. From crispy dosas that cradle flavorful fillings to aromatic biryani that transports you to the culinary landscapes of Kerala, the offerings here are nothing short of spectacular. The moment you step into ILLAM, you're greeted by a warm ambiance that invites you to embark on a culinary journey unlike any other.
One standout dish that has captured the hearts of many is the Idli Chaat. This creative twist on a classic showcases soft, fluffy idlis paired with zesty chutneys and crunchy toppings, making it an unforgettable experience. As reviewer Shubhi Agarwal mentions, "It’s a unique take on a classic, and they’ve nailed the flavors." Each bite is a burst of tradition reimagined, emphasizing the innovative spirit of the kitchen.
The attention to detail is evident across the entire menu, from the delightful starters such as the Malabari Fish, wrapped in banana leaves, to the succulent Crab and crispy Squids. Dr. Muhammad Abdul Hannan notes the impressive standards maintained by this family-run establishment, where each dish not only meets but exceeds expectations.
On a visit with friends, Mike discovered the joy of shared plates, highlighting the restaurant's lively atmosphere perfect for a celebratory meal. The diverse range of appetizers, including popadoms and pickles, sets a delectable stage for the main courses. The communal dining experience amplifies the flavors, fostering a spirit of taste-sharing that enriches your outing.
The service at ILLAM is equally commendable. Guests often rave about the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff. As one reviewer noted, "The service was excellent, with friendly and attentive staff who made us feel right at home." This level of care enhances the overall dining experience, allowing guests to feel valued and welcomed.
Whether you are a lifelong admirer of South Indian cuisine or a curious newcomer, ILLAM offers something special. With a commitment to authenticity and creativity, the restaurant invites you to explore a menu brimming with unique dishes and flavors that reflect the vibrant culture of South India. ILLAM Restaurant - South Indian Kitchen is not just a meal; it’s a delightful expedition into the heart of culinary excellence.
Are you ready to indulge in the joyous flavors of South Indian cooking? For reservations, call +44 1423 553991 and prepare yourself for a dining experience that promises warmth and exquisite taste at every turn. Your culinary adventure awaits at ILLAM!

Illam has been a household favourite for my husband and I. We go at the very least monthly with the Dosa, Biryani, Beef with Parotta being our favourite. However everything is delicious! Always attentive and exceptional service whenever we are there and the food is always so flavourful and delicious. Our favourite harrogate resto!

If you're craving authentic South Indian flavors with a creative twist, this place is a must-visit! The food quality is top-notch, and every dish bursts with rich, traditional taste. Their service is equally impressive—quick, friendly, and attentive throughout the meal. One dish that absolutely stood out for me was the Idli Chaat. It’s a unique take on a classic, and they’ve nailed the flavors. The soft idlis paired with tangy chutneys and crisp toppings make it an unforgettable experience. I’d highly recommend everyone to try it—it’s a star on their menu! Overall, a great spot for anyone who loves South Indian cuisine done right. Definitely coming back!

Most delicious South Indian food ever had. It’s a family run business so they know very well how to keep their standards up to the mark. Every thing ordered just touched the perfection. Can’t remember the names of the items, but Pineapple dish went really nice with coconut rice..!! Crab was delicious and the squids were amazing and crispy. Shrimp and the Malabar Paratha were equally amazing.

Second visit, 6 of us celebrating my berthdi. This place just gets better ! Busy evening, we were on the first floor - lovely decor. Drinks were ordered along with popadoms and pickles. Varied crispy things arrived - not just regular fare. Mains were ordered, dosas, meat curries and I went off piste with fish cooked in banana leaf. My goodness.......... So many Mmmm’s and Ahhhh’s and lots of taste sharing !!! A tremendous evening and stunning food. Such a refreshing change from Kashmiri or Bangladesh curries which are the normal ones locally.

Really really tasty food, great selection of interesting dishes. They were all very light and well presented. We would like to try more for sure. The waiter was extremely polite and attentive. We were sat upstairs which lacked a bit of atmosphere as it was quieter than downstairs, but the food was the main reason we went to this restaurant and that didn't disappoint. Also very reasonably priced.

Had an exceptional meal, everything was beautifully cooked, and service was friendly and attentive. The thali is an amazing way to try a lot of different dishes.

This is perfect place in Harrogate city centre to have yummy food. We had a great dining experience at this restaurant! The food was not only delicious but also unique—they offer a different menu which is not common in any other south Indian restaurant, with creative dishes that stand out. We ordered all vegetarian dishes, all were absolutely amazing The service was excellent, with friendly and attentive staff who made us feel right at home. The ambiance was cozy and well thought out, adding to the overall enjoyable experience. Definitely a place worth visiting if you're looking to try something different and tasty Indian food! We will definitely come back soon here!

A Culinary Journey to Kerala at Illam!! I have been to Illam a few times, and I must mention that it’s been nothing but only wonderful experiences at this place. The ambiance is always warm and inviting, perfectly setting the stage for a culinary journey through South India. The highlight of our meal was undoubtedly the Malabari Fish (my most favourite starter from the menu). This dish was a symphony of flavours, with the fish cooked to perfection and infused with a rich, aromatic blend of spices. The balance of heat and flavour was impeccable, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Illam. Equally impressive was the Meen Pollichath. Wrapped in banana leaves and cooked to perfection, the fish was tender and flavourful, with a delightful smoky aroma. The masala coating was a perfect blend of spices, enhancing the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering them. This dish truly showcased the culinary expertise of the chefs at Illam. Overall, Illam offers an authentic taste of Kerala cuisine which is non comparable. I highly recommend Illam to anyone looking to experience the rich and diverse flavours of South India. I can’t wait to return and explore more of their menu!