Legendary Eateries in Namma Chennai

When it comes to delectable food culture, Chennai has a lot to offer. Whether you want a taste of authentic South Indian breakfast or a spread of International cuisines – on Chennai’s culinary landscape you can find it all! Things2do helps you explore some of the best eating places in Chennai, which have definitely made its mark on the Chennai food map. From traditional South Indian food to Thai delicacies and delicious Continental cuisines – these legendary eateries in Chennai are every foodie’s favourite.

1Ratna Cafe

Being one of the famous landmarks in Chennai, Ratna Cafe has been an icon since its establishment – a year after Indian Independence. Idli & Sambar is the most famous dish here.  Take a bite of a piece of the fluffy idli dunked in piping hot Sambar and youll know what were talking about. Pro tip is to pair it with a glass of filter coffee! The fascinating part is that the restaurant was started by Triloknath Gupta from Uttar Pradesh. Yet a great place to indulge in South Indian Breakfast. How cool is that? 

Address : Triplicane High Rd, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600005 

2Rayar’s Mess

Opened in 1935, since the pre-independence era, the 16 seater eatery is located in small lanes of Mylapore. Rayar’s Mess  is famous for their South Indian Breakfast specially the Pongal and Vada. It is also said that this restaurant is a favourite spot of the former Chief Minister of TamilNadu, Dr. M.G. Ramachandran. We swear that you’ll have your heart and tummy full in under Rs. 100. It’s a perfect spot for everyday breakfast and you’ll find tons of regulars frequenting it on weekday mornings. 

Address : 31, Arundale St, Madhavaperumalpuram, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004 

3Benjarong

Benjarong located in TTK Road has been around for more than 2 decades. The restaurant in Chennai offers great authentic Thai food prepared with fresh local ingredients and the Chef’s own creativity. The ambience is simple and cosy, the waitresses dressed in traditional Thai costumes adds to the overall experience of dining here. Gai Hor Baitaey, Soft Shell Crab, Tom Yum soup, Pokchoy Faidaeng, Pad Thai Goong, Tim Grob, Mango Sticky Rice are a few of the must try delicacies at this place. 

Address : 146, TT Krishnamachari Rd, Cooperative Colony, Sri Ram Nagar, Alwarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600018 

4Eden

Eden was among the first vegetarian restaurants to offer a Continental menu. It’s been more than 25 years since the palace has been wowing customers and to date,diners will have to wait for a table, especially on weekends. The place is just a minute away from Besant Nagar Depot and is at a walkable distance from the beach. Right from baked Italian dishes to home style Indian menu, Eden continues to amuse the customers with the consistency of the flavours. Lasagna, Au gratin, Paneer dishes and the Vegetable Bake are few of the must try dishes at Eden. 

Address : 35, 2nd Ave, RBI Quarters, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600090 

5Thambi Vilas

If you are a 90s kid that has grown up in a Tamil household, you would get nostalgic as soon as you step into Thambi Vilas. The authentic food and ambience takes you back in time. The interiors are rich – resembling Chettiar Bungalow with colourful tiles, wooden doors with intricate detailing. Started in 1964, and has become one of the favourite non vegetarian food spots for Chennaites. Indulge in authentic Chettinad cuisine at Thambi Vilas and don’t forget to try their Mutton Biryani, Kothu Parotta, Chicken Roast, Podi Idlis, Mutton Laapa, Elaneer Payasam and Chocolate Paan. 

Address : 2nd Avenue, 12th Main Rd, Anna Nagar West, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600040

So this was a list of some of Chennai’s most legendary eateries. To stay in tune with all the other happenings in Chennai right from the perfect places for a date to the best one day Getaways near Chennai.

by Swetha Parthiban

Writer at Things2do