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Chennai is among the country’s fastest-growing metropolitan cities, yet one can also find traces of its rich, centuries-spanning history. This diversity certainly reflects itself in the city’s culinary landscape. One can find world-class bakeries, Korean BBQ joints, handmade pizzas, and pastas while also being able to sample the region’s traditional cuisine, from dosas to Chettinad cuisine that hails from a few hundred kilometers north of the city. This list aims to capture some of the city’s culinary diversity in a handy list you can follow if you want to make sure you have a memorable dinner experience.
Southern Spice
Overview: Southern Spice is a luxurious fine dining restaurant, offering an exquisite traditional South Indian culinary experience. The restaurant is elegantly designed with ethnic décor, showcasing the rich heritage of the region. They have been dishing out consistently excellent crowd-pleasers for many years and have developed a loyal following. Be sure not to miss out on their payasam while dining in and opt for their thali to get a taste of everything.
Cuisines: South Indian, Chettinad
Types Offered: Kozhikode Kozhi Biryani, Alleppey Fish Curry, Chettinad Prawn Masala
Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:30 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: Taj Coromandel, 37, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600034
Cost for two: Rs 3,500
Pan Asian
Overview: Pan Asian is a stylish and contemporary restaurant that offers an extraordinary array of Asian cuisines. The open kitchen concept and interactive cooking stations add a lively atmosphere to the dining experience. There is something for almost anyone here. Each cuisine on offer is executed well, so this is a great option for larger groups where each person in your party may have varied tastes. Their range of sushi never fails to put a smile on our faces.
Cuisines: Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Malaysian, Korean
Types Offered: Sushi Platter, Peking Duck, Thai Green Curry
Timings: 6:00 PM - 11:30 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: ITC Grand Chola, 63, Mount Road, Guindy, Chennai 600032
Cost for two: Rs 4,000
Nair Mess
Overview: Nair Mess is a legendary eatery that has been serving delicious, authentic South Indian meals since 1959. The no-frills, casual setting allows the food to take center stage, with dishes prepared using time-honored recipes. Their banana leaf meals are hard to go wrong with, especially at the price, and remain a staple for us whenever we are near Chepauk Stadium.
Cuisines: South Indian, Chettinad
Types Offered: Chicken Chettinad, Mutton Fry, Prawn Masala
Timings: 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: 22, Mohammed Abdullah Sahib Street, opposite Chepauk Stadium, Triplicane, Chennai 600005
Cost for two: Rs 600
Peshawri
Overview: Peshawri brings the flavors of the North West Frontier to Chennai with its mouthwatering tandoori dishes and rich, aromatic gravies. The rustic décor, complete with copper vessels and earthen plates, enhances the authentic dining experience. We personally loved the Dal Bukhara; its smoky flavor is evident from hours of slow cooking on the coals.
Cuisines: North Indian, Mughlai
Types Offered: Dal Bukhara, Murgh Malai Kebab, Sikandari Raan
Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:30 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: ITC Grand Chola, 63, Mount Road, Guindy, Chennai 600032
Cost for two: Rs 3,800
Madras Pavilion
Overview: Madras Pavilion is an elegant all-day dining restaurant that offers an extensive buffet and à la carte menu featuring a range of international and regional cuisines. The sophisticated ambience, attentive service, and live music make it an ideal choice for a delightful dinner. Their great selection of desserts leaves us absolutely stuffed at the end of an already great meal.
Cuisines: Indian, Continental, Italian
Types Offered: Seafood Platter, Chennai Tiffin, Pasta Primavera
Timings: 6:30 PM - 11:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: ITC Grand Chola, 63, Mount Road, Guindy, Chennai 600032
Cost for two: Rs 3,200
Aseo - Korean Restaurant
Overview: Aseo is a popular Korean restaurant that has become a favorite among Chennai's food lovers. The restaurant offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere, complete with traditional Korean decor and table settings. Their assortment of Korean BBQ meats, though expensive, is unrivaled in quality anywhere in Chennai. One can also find many Korean nationals dining here, which can only be a good sign when it comes to the authenticity of the food.
Cuisines: Korean
Types Offered: Kimchi Fried Rice, Japchae, Bulgogi
Timings: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: 12, Khader Nawaz Khan Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600006
Cost for two: Rs 2,200
Avartana
Overview: Avartana is a groundbreaking restaurant that offers a unique fusion of South Indian and contemporary global cuisines. The restaurant has garnered numerous international accolades, including a spot on Asia’s 50 best restaurants, for its innovative approach and exceptional dining experience, which includes an open kitchen and interactive food presentations. Their multicourse tasting menu is a must try for anyone that is serious about their love for food. You will be surprised and delighted by all the unique ideas on display and the finesse with which they have been executed.
Cuisines: South Indian, Fusion
Types Offered: Slow-cooked Lamb Chops, Curry Leaf Prawns, Chocolate and Coconut Sphere
Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: ITC Grand Chola, 63, Mount Road, Guindy, Chennai 600032
Cost for two: Rs 4,500
ID
Overview: ID is a charming South Indian restaurant that offers an authentic dining experience with its traditional recipes and ingredients. The restaurant's minimalist decor allows the focus to be on the delicious food and warm hospitality. It's a great spot for a late breakfast, especially for those who love their dosas and idlis with a healthy dose of Podi sprinkled on top.
Cuisines: South Indian
Types Offered: Kal Dosa, Mysore Masala Dosa, Rava Kesari
Timings: 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: Sathyam Cinemas, 8, Thiru Vi Ka Road, Royapettah, Chennai 600014
Cost for two: Rs 1,000
Maplai
Overview: Maplai is a cozy and unpretentious restaurant that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of South India. The menu features traditional recipes from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, offering a true taste of the region. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Maplai is perfect for a delicious, homely dinner. For lovers of Mangalorean food, Malpai serves as one of the better options in Chennai, with an authentic ghee roast free from the trappings of excess curry leaves and green chili. A constant favorite of ours, with the soft neer dosas to soak up the goodness.
Cuisines: South Indian, Chettinad, Kerala
Types Offered: Malabar Parotta, Mangalorean Ghee Roast Chicken, Nattu Kozhi Biryani
Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: 14, Sterling Avenue, Nungambakkam, Chennai 600034
Cost for two: Rs 1,200
Bombay Brasserie
Overview: Bombay Brasserie is a trendy and vibrant restaurant that offers a fresh take on Indian cuisine. The dishes are inspired by different regions of India and are prepared using unique ingredients, offering a delightful culinary experience. The modern decor and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a casual dinner with friends or family. It's always a bright and cheery place with great comfort food that you really can’t go wrong with, especially when in a larger group.
Cuisines: Maharashtrian, Fusion
Types Offered: Aam Papad Paneer, Gunpowder Potatoes, Calcutta Club Fish Fry
Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Monday to Sunday
Location: Express Avenue Mall, Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai 600014
Cost for two: Rs 1,500
