The rich aroma of coffee and masala dosa that once filled the air at the Indian Coffee House (ICH) in Changanassery will soon be a memory as the iconic eatery near Kurishumoodu Junction has permanently closed its shutters. The coffee house served its last customers on Monday, on the eve of International Coffee Day, ironically.
The decision to shut down stems from declining profits, according to the management. But for the people, ICH was much more than just a place to grab a bite. It was a hub where friendships blossomed and lively discussions on everything from politics and movies to sports, history, and global affairs unfolded over steaming cups of coffee. Many regulars even had their favourite seats in select corners, where they spent countless hours in conversation, savouring the signature recipes. The hotel staff here, wearing their trademark white caps, served not just food but a sense of belonging too.
It's a poignant irony that the closure comes just before International Coffee Day, as the Indian Coffee House had long been a place where coffee wasn’t just a beverage, but an emotion that united the community, fostering countless connections and memories over its beloved brews.
After moving from its previous location near the Changanassery KSRTC bus station, ICH had been operating near Kurishumoodu Junction for the past seven years. The restaurant served its final order at 9 pm, closing not just a chapter but an era, leaving cherished memories and friendships bittersweet.
Though another branch of ICH had briefly operated near Perunna Junction, it too had to shut down. The ICH branch in Thiruvalla was closed much earlier, in 2014.
For the people of Changanassery longing for a taste of the famous beetroot masala dosa and coffee served by the white-capped waiters, they will now have to go all the way to Kottayam town to reach the nearest Indian Coffee House.
The Indian Coffee House is a chain of worker-owned restaurants that has become a beloved institution in Kerala. Established in the 1950s by the Indian Coffee Workers' Cooperative, it emerged as a response to the closure of Coffee Board-run cafes. Known for its affordable menu and nostalgic ambiance, the chain serves classic Indian dishes like masala dosa and its signature strong filter coffee. The staff, recognizable by their white uniforms and turbans, are an iconic feature. Indian Coffee Houses have long been more than just eateries—they've been social hubs where people from all walks of life gather for conversations, meetings, and memories.