Tourist in Chennai? Explore Food in Chennai

 

Food in Chennai is extremely diverse, hence the city’s very diverse culture. 

However, the city allows you to satisfy your appetite for traditional South Indian dishes or its modern fusion form.

Below is an overview of what you must try as far as eating out is concerned; from the street food to the ones in sit down restaurants.

Classic South Indian Favorites

Murugan Idli Shop

Murugan Idli Shop is a must for anyone looking for some genuine South Indian fare as it is known for the softest, most steaming idlis or a multitude of dosas.

The shop is equally famous for its signature Jigarthanda — a refreshing milk based beverage served as dessert style, that is popular at all times, especially on hot days.

Refined and popularized in the Bronx, this spot with several branches around the city is made for a quick and satisfying bite for the essence of local cuisine.

Sangeetha Veg Restaurant

One more traditional vegetarian favourite in Teynampet, Sangeetha Veg Restaurant is another restaurant that has an extensive range of traditional dishes served up on their menu.

Regardless of whether you decide to pile in on a tiffin of just idlis to fill your belly (they come with side orders of dosas and vadas too!), rest assured that you will be eating so much and with such enormous generosity.

It is a reliable choice for a clean and budget environment, known for providing you a genuine taste of Chennai’s classic breakfast.

SMS Cafe, Alwarpet

If rustic is the need of the day, SMS Cafe in Alwarpet promises to deliver. Known for their fluffy idlis and crispy dosas served with freshly made sambar and chutneys, this modest eatery is what the public got used to eating everyday.

For travelers who don’t need 50 utensils, but do seek thoughtfully prepared, simple, no frills service, the counter service setting and traditional flavors worked for me.

Modern and Fusion Dining Options

Amelie’s, Alwarpet

Amelie’s Cafe & Creamery combines Fusion Menu and is located in a charming bungalow.

Warm lighting and a nice atmosphere enhance the ambiance here for an evening meal.

In addition to the innovative mocktails and interesting dessert options, the restaurant provides a welcome relief from the usual fate of the city.

Big Bang Theory — Bar & Kitchen, Kodambakkam

But if you are someone who wants something other than Mallu movie theatres or just sitting at home and ordering food, Big Bang Theory in Kodambakkam is a mix of international and Indian dishes.

Popular with the young diners, this place has a lively bar atmosphere with upbeat music and quirky decor.

A casual night out at Echo is a really great venue in which you can try out interesting and creative takes on standard dishes.

Seafood and Regional Specialties

The Marina, Nungambakkam

If you are a seafood lover then do not miss The Marina. This restaurant is a place where you can choose yourself fish or shellfish, laid out on the counter, and it will be prepared the way you like.

Highlights include crispy fried mackerel or alleppey-style fish curry, with traditional Malabari paratha, both of which highlight the freshest of Chennai’s coastal produce.

Amaravathi, Teynampet

Amaravathi is the place to be if you are in the mood for something with a spicy kick.

This restaurant specializes in Andhra style food and dishes like the crab masala fry with the parotta is served with great taste and robust flavors.

These bold spices prove a strong contrast to the milder traditional Tamil offerings and will definitely please anyone seeking the more regional versions.

The Street Food Experience

As a food visitor, one’s guide to Chennai is innumerable roads filled with treasure.

Crispy vadas and tangy idli sambhar are available from the city’s street vendors, as well as the beloved kothu parotta, the chopped parotta mixed with spices, vegetables or sometimes even eggs.

Venturing into Sowcarpet or near to Marina Beach, you will find numerous stalls selling cheap yet delicious stuff that will bring you the real experience of local life.

Food Traveler’s Tips for Chennai

• Go Breakfast: Those of you who miss breakfast can visit early and have idlis and dosas, but lunch or dinner is advised for those who have a taste for spicy options.
• While most of these established restaurants accept digital payments as electronic payments, many street vendors will only accept cash.
• Busy, well reviewed spots are often your safest bet if you are looking to enjoy street food in terms of hygiene and quality.
• Signature Dishes: The city offers a unique variety of food and has some signature dishes like Jigarthanda, which is a cooling drink made of milk and ice cream served with a strong black coffee to beat the heat; and kothu parotta, which is a parotta cut into small pieces, stir fried with egg and spices.

Final Thoughts

Just as it is with the history and culture of the city, a visit to Chennai is as much a journey through its food.

Dining opportunities in the city include traditional, counter service places, modern, upscale restaurants and bustling street food stalls.

Both give an interesting take on the culinary traditions of Chennai, that will always make every meal an adventure.

Enjoy wandering in this vibrant foodscape, and sample the flavours which makes Chennai a foodie haven.