Last updated: 8 May 2026


Malayalam · Comedy, Drama
2h 30m · 29 Jun 2012
DOP: Loganathan Srinivasan | Writer: Anjali Menon
Ratings
Our Rating
3.5
Ustad Hotel tells the story of Faizi, a young man passionate about becoming a chef, who is sent to work at his grandfather's seaside restaurant, Ustad Hotel, in Kozhikode. The film explores Faizi's journey of self-discovery, the clash between his ambitions and family expectations, and the deep bond he forms with his grandfather. It beautifully portrays themes of tradition, love, and the significance of food as a medium of connection and healing.
Ustad Hotel is a heartfelt narrative that blends family drama with culinary passion, delivering a story that is both engaging and emotionally resonant. The screenplay is well-crafted, balancing moments of humor, warmth, and poignant reflection, with a pacing that keeps the audience invested throughout. The first half establishes the characters and their conflicts effectively, setting up the emotional stakes, while the second half deepens the relationships and culminates in a satisfying resolution.
The film's music and background score complement the narrative beautifully, with subtle melodies that enhance the emotional tone without overpowering the scenes. Although the songs are few, they are thoughtfully placed and add to the cultural ambiance of the film. Loganathan Srinivasan's cinematography captures the coastal setting vividly, adding a visual charm that enriches the storytelling.
Overall, Ustad Hotel stands out for its authentic portrayal of Kerala's culture and cuisine, combined with strong performances and a script that resonates on multiple levels. The film's blend of simplicity and depth makes it a memorable cinematic experience.
Dulquer Salmaan: Delivered a nuanced and relatable portrayal of Faizi, capturing the character's growth and emotional conflicts with subtlety.
Thilakan: As the grandfather, he brought warmth and gravitas, anchoring the film with his powerful yet tender presence.
Nithya Menen: Provided a charming and natural performance that added depth to the supporting narrative.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Anwar Rasheed's direction is sensitive and assured, successfully blending a family drama with a culinary journey. The writing is heartfelt and avoids melodrama, focusing instead on character-driven storytelling and cultural authenticity.
| Source | Rating |
|---|---|
| 4.00 / 5 | |
| 4.00 / 5 | |
| 3.50 / 5 |
Our Rating
No collection data available yet.
No centers data available.
| Award | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Film Award | Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment | Recognized for its engaging and culturally rich storytelling |
| Kerala State Film Award | Best Popular Film | Honored for its popularity and critical acclaim in Kerala |
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 85% |
| Neutral | 10% |
| Negative | 5% |
Critics widely praised Ustad Hotel for its heartfelt storytelling, strong performances, and authentic depiction of Kerala's culture. The film was noted for its emotional depth and the chemistry between the lead actors. Some reviews pointed out minor pacing issues but overall lauded it as a significant work in Malayalam cinema.
Final Box-Office Result
Ustad Hotel released on 29 June 2012 (2012).
Ustad Hotel is declared a SUPER HIT at the box office.
Ustad Hotel OTT release date not announced yet.
Ustad Hotel directed by Anwar Rasheed. Produced by Listin Stephen.
Ustad Hotel stars Dulquer Salmaan, Thilakan, Nithya Menen, Siddique, Mamukkoya.
Tollybo rates Ustad Hotel 3.5/5. Verdict: SUPER HIT.
Ustad Hotel — Genre: Comedy, Drama, Runtime: 150 minutes, Language: Malayalam.