Chennai, the state capital, is a bustling metropolis known for its delicious cuisine, beautiful temples, and long history of religious tolerance. It has a thriving food scene that has something for everyone. Chennai has a great mix of traditional South Indian flavors and influences worldwide. This city has everything, from street food stands with delicious snacks to fine dining restaurants with exquisite gourmet experiences. This blog will show you the best restaurants in Chennai that will make your taste buds dance and leave you wanting more.
Best Restaurants in Chennai You Must Explore
1. Murugan Idli Shop
At Murugan Idli Shop, you can get your day off to a delicious start with an authentic South Indian breakfast. This legendary restaurant is well-known for its pillowy, airy idlis and a mouthwatering assortment of chutneys that it serves, and it provides an immersive dining experience at each of its multiple locations across the city. Murugan Idli Shop promises a delicious and inexpensive breakfast, with options ranging from the traditional plain idlis to more exotic varieties like podi idli and masala idli. This is one of the best vegetarian restaurants in chennai.
Location: 77-1/A, G.N. Chetty Road, T. Nagar, Chennai
Timings: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 300 – INR 400
Cuisine: South Indian
2. Annalakshmi Restaurant
Annalakshmi restaurant in Chennai is where culture, spirituality, and delicious vegetarian food unite perfectly. Located in the heart of Marina Beach, this fine dining restaurant is dedicated to providing customers with a memorable dining experience. They have a great selection of South Indian, North Indian, and continental dishes on their buffet. The live classical music and peaceful atmosphere create an ideal setting for a relaxing meal.
Location: 61/5, Nagenahalli, Singanayakanahalli, Doddaballapur Main Road, Yelahanka, Bangalore
Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 800 – INR 1000
Cuisine: South Indian, Chinese
3. Madurai Kumar Mess
At Madurai Kumar Mess, you can indulge in mouthwatering dishes that are not vegetarian and satisfy your cravings. This restaurant, amid the hustle and bustle of T. Nagar, is famous for its authentic Chettinad cuisine, which is known for its robust and aromatic flavors. The menu at Madurai Kumar Mess will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey, with everything from spicy chicken Chettinad and mutton biryani to tantalizing seafood delicacies. The restaurant’s quaint atmosphere is a major draw for locals and visitors.
Location: 165 & 167, 100 Feet Road, Ashok Nagar, Chennai
Timings: 8:30 am to 10:30 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 500 – INR 800
Cuisine: South Indian
4. Ente Keralam
Ente Keralam is a culinary gem in Chennai that serves up authentic Keralan cuisine. This posh restaurant in Alwarpet is known for its extensive menu of Kerala specialties, all made using time-honored techniques and the highest quality ingredients. Appams, biryanis, seafood curries, and desserts like ada pradhaman are just some of the things you should try. The friendly service and cozy atmosphere will ensure you and your date have a memorable meal.
Location: 1, 1st Street, Poes Garden, Kasturi Estate, Alwarpet, Chennai
Timings: 12:00 pm to 11:30 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 950
Cuisine: Kerala
5. The Flying Elephant
The Flying Elephant at Park Hyatt Chennai is one of the famous restaurants in Chennai, well known for a fancy meal. This opulent restaurant in Guindy boasts seven interactive kitchens, each specializing in a different type of cuisine worldwide. Sushi, Indian curries, wood-fired pizzas, and succulent grills are just a few options on The Flying Elephant’s extensive menu. Because of the extraordinary atmosphere created by the sophisticated furnishings, the live music, and the impeccable service, this venue is perfect for celebratory events or evenings spent indulging one’s senses.
Location: 39, Raj Bhavan, Little Mount, Velachery Main Road, Guindy, Chennai
Timings: 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 400 – INR 800
Cuisine: Asian, Italian
6. Amethyst Cafe
Amethyst Cafe, a charming oasis tucked away in Royapettah’s bustling neighborhood, is renowned for its serene atmosphere and mouth watering cuisine. This cafe, which is housed in a restored colonial bungalow with a lovely garden, serves a delicious menu of sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, and desserts. Enjoy a cup of flavorful coffee or treat yourself to their decadent high tea while listening to the calming sounds of nature.
Location: Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai
Timing: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 1300
Cuisine: Continental, Thai
7. Absolute Barbecues
Absolute Barbecues is a haven for meat lovers everywhere. This restaurant’s barbecue-on-the-table concept offers a distinctive dining experience. You can pick from a wide variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables that have been marinated and then grill them to perfection right at your table. Absolute Barbecues ensures that each customer has a memorable and engaging dining experience by providing an extensive selection of flavorful sauces and unlimited servings.
Location: T. Nagar, Chennai
Timing: 12:00 pm to 11:30 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 1500-2000
Cuisine: Mughlai
8. Sri Murugan Bhavan
Murugan Bhavan is a well-known name in the South Indian dining scene and is famous for the traditional vegetarian food that it serves. This restaurant in Nungambakkam provides customers with a diverse selection of South Indian delicacies such as dosas, uttapams, idlis, and more. The flavors are authentic, and the ingredients’ quality is exceptional. The efficient service and pocket-friendly prices make Murugan Bhavan a favorite among locals and tourists.
Location: 30, Chengalpattu Road, Thiruporur, East Coast Road (ECR), Chennai
Timing: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 600
Cuisine: South Indian, Chinese
9. Sandy’s Chocolate Laboratory
Sandy’s Chocolate Laboratory is a restaurant in Chennai that no one with a passion for sweets should miss. This dessert paradise can be found in Phoenix MarketCity, and it provides customers with an extensive selection of mouth watering sweets, including delicious chocolates, pastries, milkshakes, and ice creams. The desserts are works of art, in terms of their appearance and the care and ingenuity with which they were crafted. Give in to your craving for something sweet and embark on a delightful adventure through chocolate and confections.
Location: Old 13, New 19, Wallace Garden, 2nd Street, Nungambakkam, Chennai
Timing:7:00 am to 11:00 pm
Cost for Two: Approximately INR 1700-1800
Cuisine: Continental, Italian
Conclusion
Chennai’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of delightful dining options. From the humble Murugan Idli Shop to the extravagant Flying Elephant, these restaurants represent the city’s diverse flavors and culinary prowess. Embark on a gastronomic adventure through Chennai, savoring the delectable offerings while immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant ambiance. These remarkable dining destinations are ready to captivate your taste buds and create lasting memories.
