When we talk about South India it represents a whole gamete of five different states all serving some of the most delicious flavourful dishes that actually represents the country’s rich history. Be it their characteristic herbs or spices, each dish has that rich and distinct aroma fill and satiate our senses. All the more when we think of South Indian non-veg from Chettinad Avial, Ponni Rice, Mutton Pulimunchi, Hyderabad Biryani to Kakinada fish curry they all are perfect example of Southern flavours.
Mahabelly
This speciality restaurant serving authentic Kerala cuisine, Mahabelly has been the brainchild of Thomas Fenn and Zachariah Jacob and led by Chef Jinson Varghese. Staying true to its traditional roots, Mahabelly makes sure that al its primary ingredients come all the way from Kerala for the true-blue Malayali experience. The moment you step in you get to see that the eatery has drawn inspiration from Kerala pop culture which includes Malayalam cinema, performing and visual arts, traditional lore and artefacts.
The place boasts of its Moilee and spicy Mutton Varathathu flanked by signature specials Prawn Mango Curry, Thalassery Biriyani, Chicken Kizhi and more!
Tenali
Giving a taste of authentic Andhra cuisine, this outlet in the capital, Tenali kitchen is all about flavours from the Guntur region freshly prepared and put on the table. With an exhaustive ala carte menu and different set thalis (both veg and non-veg) for each day of the week.
Lovingly brought to existence by Y. Narayanan Reddy (senior executive with a company), Sharmistha Cheema (home chef and food expert), Gaurav Chhatwal (restaurateur, owns Chungwa and Fujiya) and Jasjit Singh (restaurateur who owns Shibuya and La Latina, restaurateur), the family restaurant has been a much favoured spot for those who insist on taste, authenticity and variety on their platter. While weekdays see repeat customers (who come back for the set menu that alters every single day), weekends buzz with constant influx of eager eaters.
The menu includes classics such as tomato rasam, classic rasam, ginger chicken fry, sole fry, Hyderabadi Biriyani, Gutta Venkaya, Dosakaya Pappu, Mutton Korma, the list is exhaustive. Unless you eat here, you probably wouldn’t be able to imagine the tastes and flavours we are rustling up with love and warmth.
Sana-di-ge
Located in one of Delhi’s greenest neighborhoods—Malcha Marg Chanakya puri, Sana-di-ge is spread over three floors. The name Sana-di-ge means a brass lamp in Tulu language. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and original coastal recipes and fresh ingredients. Not just that, seafood from Goa, Maharashtra, and Kerala also form a part of their extensive menu! Food is served in brass plates lined with plantain leaf for guests to experience authentic Dakshina Kannada dining.
Every alternate day, fresh seafood is sourced and guests are shown live crabs, lobsters, catch of the day, etc before cooking to guarantee freshness. Along with the food, Sana-di-ge depicts the culture of South Kanara not only through its décor but also through the staff attire. Some of the USP on the menu is Chicken Ghee Roast, Mamsa Mutton Fry, Mangalorean Mutton Curry and Karavalli Jenji Curry and of course their creamy Elaneer Payasam, served in a coconut-shaped bowl.
Bagundi
Right in the heart of the city is located another Andhra cuisine restaurant- Bagundi. This quaint little outlet that’s spread over two floors sees the very interesting traditional wooden carved double doors the moment you enter. Bagundi that literally translates to ‘good’ in Telugu, you transport you an old Tollywood era with those breezy tunes of popular Telugu songs that keeps playing in the background.
From the crab masala to the chicken/ mutton paya to the tantalising tastes of chicken / mutton fry and mutton / chicken / fish pulusu, Andhra Prawn Fry and of course the non-veg thali’s there are many reasons why will come back again
Zambar
As you step in Zambar, the place literally traverses you to the aromatic bylanes of South. This one from Lite Bite Food kitty, this place is a great amalgamation how culture combines with the cuisines. Representing all the 5 states, the menu here is everything but staple. Lively interiors, absolute comfortable seating it makes this place much worthy. Chef Vetri Murugan has done a brilliant job of getting the coastal delicacies absolutely right on the table.
There Angamaly Fish Mango Curry, Chettinad Fish fingers and Vetrimurugun's Mutton Sukka, Pallipalayam Chicken, Chicken Salana top the menu.