Thiruvananthapuram has an unlikely new address for foodies. The Poojappura Central Prison has opened a new cafeteria with lip-smacking delicacies, prepared by the prisoners.

An array of food items, ranging from chappati, idly and biriyani to chicken and vegetable curries prepared by inmates of Poojappura Central Prison, is available at the newly opened cafeteria-cum-takeaway counter.

The low cost but quality-rich chapati-chicken curry combo, dished out by the prisoners, is already a hit in the market.

Located adjacent to the prison, the 'Food For Freedom Cafe' is set up as part of the Kerala Prisons and Correctional Services Department's ambitious rehabilitation programme for inmates.

The facility, which is open from 6 am to 9 pm, can accommodate up to 15-17 persons at a time.

Manned by three prison staff and four daily wage labourers, the cafeteria will have facilities including air-conditioning, mobile charging points and vehicle parking area.

Poojappura Central Jail Superintendent A G Suresh said more than 15 specially trained inmates are preparing delicacies for the cafeteria.

"The cafeteria-cum-takeaway is built at a cost of around Rs 30 lakh. After evaluating its success, we have plans to expand it further," he told PTI.

While many hotels charge five rupees to eight rupees per chappati, it will be available for just Rs 2 per piece at the new cafeteria, he said.

If the chicken biriyani costs Rs 110-120 in ordinary hotels, the 'jail biriyani' will be available for just Rs 60.

Chicken curry is priced at Rs 20 per packet while chilly chicken is priced at Rs 40.

A special herbal gooseberry juice prepared by prisoners is in good demand in the cafeteria. Besides this, tea, coffee and a variety of ice creams and soft drinks will also be available.

The official said the 'Tihar Food Court' story was an inspiration for them while planning such a venture.