10 Dishes To Try When In Chennai

By Niveditha Kalyanaraman

October 18th, 2023

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If you’re new to Chennai, you probably think all we do is slurp on curd rice and stuff our faces with idlis. Yes, we do, but there are so many other legendary dishes you probably haven’t tried. From the golden sands of Marina to the delicious temple prasadam of Mylapore, Chennai has a platter for all. Here are 10 dishes you must try when in Chennai.

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Kozhukkattai

These sweet steamed dumplings made out of jaggery or sugar with grated coconut enclosed in a rice flour pouch are just what your palate needs.

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Podi Idli

This fabulous combination of spicy podi and soft idlis makes us drool — a delicious South Indian brekkie to kickstart the day.

Image Credit: Swasthi's recipes

Filter Kaapi

Your trip or stay in Chennai is incomplete if you don’t take a whiff of authentic filter kaapi at least once a day. Almost every restaurant or small tea store offers fresh, hot tumblers of this beverage.

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Murukku Sandwich

Crispy, spicy, and exclusive to Chennai, this tangy and crunchy street food chaat is a hit snack that'll keep you yearning for more.

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Masala Dosa

Usually made with batter made from scratch, and poured onto hot pans, these are thin crispy dosas stuffed with juicy bits of potatoes, tossed in masalas.

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Thayir Sadam

Curd rice is a classic dish that's a comfort food in Chennai. Pair it with some dry chilli and you've unlocked a new addiction.

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Rose Milk

Another sweet drink close to our hearts, everyone loves this invigorating, cold glass of rose milk.

Image Credit: Cook Click N Devour

Bhajjis

Accompany your relaxing experience at the beach with a plate of Bhajjis: fritters fried in oil with vegetables stuffed in.

Image Credit: Archana's Kitchen 

Jigarthanda

Jigarthanda, a popular, cool beverage from Madurai is the perfect thirst-quencher. Made with almond resin and ice cream, you can get a cool, creamy glass to relish your day.

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Sundal

A very popular and tasty street food in Chennai, Sundal is found at many beaches. Sundal is made from boiled chickpeas mixed with onions, an assortment of spices, herbs, and topped off with shredded coconut.

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