Top 10 Restaurants in Chennai: A Complete Guide to the Best Dining Experiences
Chennai, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant food scene, offers a wide variety of dining options for food lovers. From traditional South Indian cuisine to global flavors, Chennai's restaurant scene caters to all tastes. Here’s a guide to the top 10 restaurants in Chennai that stand out for their ambiance, food quality, and service.
1. The Marina – The Raintree Hotel
Cuisine: Multi-Cuisine (International & Indian)
The Marina at The Raintree Hotel is one of the finest dining experiences in Chennai. Located in the heart of the city, this rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views of the skyline. The menu features a mix of continental, North Indian, and South Indian dishes. Their buffet spread is particularly popular, featuring a variety of live counters, fresh seafood, and international delicacies.
Must Try: Seafood platter, Butter Chicken, and their desserts.
2. Madurai Kumar Mess
Cuisine: Traditional South Indian
Madurai Kumar Mess is a humble, no-frills restaurant that specializes in authentic South Indian cuisine, particularly from the Madurai region. The restaurant is famous for its iconic parottas and spicy curries. It offers a glimpse into the culinary traditions of Tamil Nadu, with an emphasis on home-style cooking and fresh, local ingredients.
Must Try: Parotta with mutton curry, Meen Kuzhambu, and their signature sambar.
3. The Flying Elephant
Cuisine: Continental, Asian, and Indian
Located at the Park Hyatt Chennai, The Flying Elephant is an upscale restaurant offering a diverse menu that spans from Asian to continental dishes. The ambiance is trendy and chic, with a blend of modern design and traditional touches. The open kitchen concept adds to the unique dining experience.
Must Try: Dim Sum, Peking Duck, and Tiramisu.
4. Sangeetha Veg Restaurant
Cuisine: Vegetarian South Indian
A household name in Chennai, Sangeetha Veg Restaurant is known for its delicious vegetarian fare. The restaurant serves an extensive menu featuring South Indian specialties like dosas, idlis, vadas, and sambar. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its consistent quality and wholesome meals.
Must Try: Rava Dosa, Onion Uttapam, and Filter Coffee.
5. Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant
Cuisine: Chettinad
Anjappar Chettinad is one of the best places to savor the bold flavors of traditional Chettinad cuisine. The restaurant has earned a reputation for its perfectly spiced dishes, served in generous portions. It offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with an emphasis on slow-cooked curries and seafood.
Must Try: Chettinad Chicken Curry, Mutton Sukka, and Fish Fry.
6. The Smoke Co.
Cuisine: Barbecue and Grill
For those who love grilled and smoked meats, The Smoke Co. is a must-visit restaurant in Chennai. The place offers a cozy ambiance and specializes in American-style barbecue. The wood-fired grill adds depth to the flavors of the meat, making it a popular spot for both locals and expats.
Must Try: Smoky Ribs, Buffalo Wings, and the Veggie Grill.
7. Peshawri – ITC Grand Chola
Cuisine: North-West Frontier (Indian)
Peshawri offers a luxurious dining experience with its signature North-West Frontier cuisine. The restaurant serves mouth-watering kebabs, tandoori specialties, and more in a royal Mughal-inspired setting. The menu showcases a range of authentic dishes, making it a perfect spot for food enthusiasts who want to indulge in rich Indian flavors.
Must Try: Dal Bukhara, Raan, and Galouti Kebab.
8. The Taj Coromandel – Anise
Cuisine: International Buffet
Anise at the Taj Coromandel offers an extravagant buffet spread, featuring a variety of cuisines ranging from Indian to international. The restaurant is known for its lavish brunches, perfect for a relaxing weekend outing. The sophisticated decor and impeccable service make it a top choice for buffet lovers in Chennai.
Must Try: Seafood, South Indian curries, and an array of desserts.
9. Benjarong
Cuisine: Thai and Asian
Benjarong is a stylish, upscale restaurant serving authentic Thai and Asian dishes. The ambiance is elegant, making it an ideal choice for special occasions. The restaurant offers a mix of traditional and modern Thai flavors, with a focus on fresh herbs and exotic ingredients.
Must Try: Pad Thai, Tom Yum Soup, and Green Curry.
10. Buhari Hotel
Cuisine: Indian, Mughlai
Buhari Hotel is one of Chennai’s oldest and most beloved restaurants. Known for its biryanis and kebabs, Buhari offers classic Mughlai and South Indian dishes. It has been serving generations of food lovers and continues to remain a top choice for a traditional, hearty meal.
Must Try: Chicken Biryani, Mutton Korma, and Irani Tea.
Best Buffet Restaurants in Chennai
Chennai has a vibrant buffet culture, with several restaurants offering lavish spreads. These buffet options often feature a combination of international and Indian dishes, live counters, and a selection of desserts. Here are a few of the best buffet restaurants in Chennai:
- The Raintree – The Marina: Known for its diverse range of cuisines and an exceptional buffet spread featuring global and South Indian delights.
- Anise – Taj Coromandel: Offering a premium buffet experience with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, perfect for families and business meetings.
- The Feast – Sheraton Grand Chennai: A luxurious buffet with a wide array of choices, including live stations and a large dessert section.
- Atithi – The Residency Towers: An excellent vegetarian buffet with both South Indian and continental options, making it a popular choice for vegetarians.
- The Square – Novotel Chennai: Offers a wide selection of international cuisines and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Good Restaurants in Chennai for Every Taste
Chennai is a melting pot of flavors, and there’s something for everyone. From casual eateries to fine dining, here are a few more restaurants worth checking out:
- Searock Restaurant: Located on the Marina Beach, Searock offers an exquisite seafood experience with a view.
- Café de Paris: A quaint French cafe offering croissants, pastries, and authentic French dishes in a cozy setting.
- Southern Spice – Taj Coromandel: Perfect for an upscale experience of South Indian cuisine with elegant presentation and authentic flavors.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for a lavish buffet, traditional South Indian fare, or international flavors, Chennai’s food scene offers a diverse range of dining experiences. These top 10 restaurants in the city ensure that your gastronomical journey will be nothing short of extraordinary, with a blend of tradition, luxury, and innovation.
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