1. Masala Dosa:
begin a culinary journey in Chennai with the iconic Masala Dosa. This crispy delight, filled with a spiced potato mix, offers a symphony of textures and flavors. The golden dosa, paired with tangy chutneys, is a South Indian culinary masterpiece.
Best Places:
Saravana Bhavan: 38, Venus Colony, 2nd Main Road, Alwarpet, Chennai.
Murugan Idli Shop: 77, G.N. Chetty Road, T. Nagar, Chennai.
Prems Graama Bhojanam: 18/15, Ramanathan Street, Kilpauk, Chennai.
Price: ₹50 to ₹200 ($0.70 to $2.80).
2. Chettinad Chicken Curry:
Indulge in the bold flavors of Chettinad Chicken Curry. Hailing from the Chettinad region, this spicy and aromatic chicken curry is a treat for the senses. The rich blend of spices makes it a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Chennai.
Best Places:
The Bangala: Devakottai House, 104, W. Raja Street, Chettinad, Tamil Nadu.
Karaikudi Chettinad Restaurant: 84, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai.
Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant: 17/35, Greenways Road, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai.
Price: ₹200 to ₹500 ($2.80 to $7).
3. Filter Coffee:
Experience the authentic taste of South Indian Filter Coffee. Known for its strong and rich flavor, this coffee is a staple in Chennai. Served in a stainless steel tumbler and dabarah, it’s a delightful way to kickstart your day.
Best Places:
Sangeetha Veg Restaurant: 82, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai.
Coffee Central: 3, Kotturpuram, Chennai.
Brahmins’ Coffee Bar: 9, AC Temple Road, Gandhi Bazaar, Basavanagudi, Chennai.
Price: ₹20 to ₹50 ($0.30 to $0.70).
4. Idli and Sambar:
Enjoy the simplicity and goodness of Idli with Sambar. These soft, steamed rice cakes paired with a flavorful lentil-based soup are a staple breakfast in Chennai. The combination of idli and sambar is a classic that never disappoints.
Best Places:
Rayar’s Mess: 31, Arundale Street, Mylapore, Chennai.
Sri Krishna Sweets: Multiple locations in Chennai.
Murugan Idli Shop: 77, G.N. Chetty Road, T. Nagar, Chennai.
Price: ₹30 to ₹80 ($0.40 to $1.10).
5. Chettinadu Fish Fry:
Dive into the flavors of the coast with Chettinadu Fish Fry. Fresh fish marinated in a blend of Chettinad spices and deep-fried to perfection, this dish is a seafood lover’s delight.
Best Places:
Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant: 17/35, Greenways Road, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai.
Junior Kuppanna: 14, Nungambakkam High Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai.
Coastal Aroma: 36, Rajasekaran Street, Mylapore, Chennai.
Price: ₹150 to ₹400 ($2.10 to $5.60).
6. Kothu Parotta:
Treat your taste buds to the spicy and flavorful Kothu Parotta. This popular street food dish features shredded parotta tossed with spices, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It’s a delicious medley of textures and tastes.
Best Places:
Saravana Bhavan: 38, Venus Colony, 2nd Main Road, Alwarpet, Chennai.
Thambi Vilas: 3, Govindan Street, Ayyavoo Colony, Aminjikarai, Chennai.
Ponnusamy Hotel: 160, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai.
Price: ₹80 to ₹150 ($1.10 to $2.10).
7. Banana Leaf Rice:
Experience the tradition of Banana Leaf Rice. Served on a banana leaf, this South Indian meal includes rice, a variety of curries, pickles, and papadum. The banana leaf adds a unique aroma to the meal.
Best Places:
Annalakshmi Restaurant: 18/3, Rukmini Lakshmipathy Road, Egmore, Chennai.
Savya Rasa: 77/7, CP Ramasamy Road, Alwarpet, Chennai.
Maplai: 14, Sterling Avenue, Nungambakkam, Chennai.
Price: ₹100 to ₹250 ($1.40 to $3.50).
8. Chicken 65:
Spice up your palate with the famous Chicken 65. This deep-fried, spicy chicken dish is a popular appetizer in Chennai. With its origins in the city, it has become a must-try for anyone craving a flavorful kick.
Best Places:
Buhari Hotel: 75, Anna Salai, Mount Road, Chennai.
Aasife & Brothers Biryani Centre: 239, Anna Salai, Thousand Lights, Chennai.
Star Biryani: 54, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai.
Price: ₹100 to ₹250 ($1.40 to $3.50).
9. Murukku Sandwich:
Delight in the unique Murukku Sandwich. This innovative street food combines the crispy texture of murukku (a savory snack) with the goodness of a sandwich. It’s a crunchy and satisfying treat.
Best Places:
Ratlami Chatora: 13/24, 2nd Main Road, CIT Nagar East, CIT Nagar, Chennai.
Sri Balaji Sandwich Stall: 35, Ellis Road, Triplicane, Chennai.
Wang’s Kitchen: Multiple locations in Chennai.
Price: ₹40 to ₹100 ($0.55 to $1.40).
10. Jigarthanda:
Cool off with the refreshing Jigarthanda. This traditional drink, native to Madurai but loved in Chennai, features milk, almond gum, sarsaparilla syrup, and ice cream. It’s the perfect beverage to beat the Chennai heat.
Best Places:
Murugan Idli Shop: 77, G.N. Chetty Road, T. Nagar, Chennai.
Fruit Shop on Greams Road: 29, Greams Road, Thousand Lights, Chennai.
Jigarthanda Stall:** Bazaar Road, Saidapet, Chennai.
Price: ₹50 to ₹120 ($0.70 to $1.70).