A Flavourful Journey: Dive into the Famous Food in Chennai

The famous food in Chennai spans everything from pillowy idlis and spicy Chettinad curries to savoury beachside sundal, delighting every palate.

The city's food scene beautifully weaves coastal freshness, Tamil heritage, and street-side bustle into irresistible bites. From aromatic filter coffee to golden masala dosas, the options are endless. Don't miss the theatrical kothu parotta, steaming breakfast idlis with sambar, fiery Chettinad chicken, and ghee-soaked Mysore Pak. This city is a delight for every foodie.

Popular & Must-try Food in Chennai


The culinary identity of Chennai blends fermented grains, fragrant spices, and coastal freshness into dishes that are both comforting and vibrant.

  • The Breakfast Trinity: Idli, dosa, and vada—steamed rice cakes, crispy crepes, and fried lentil doughnuts—served with cool coconut chutney and tangy sambar.
  • Filter Coffee: A frothy decoction served in a traditional davara tumbler, known for being strong, sweet, and ubiquitous.
  • Chettinad Specialities: Savour the bold, aromatic flavours of the Karaikudi region with fiery pepper-mutton curry and chicken varuval.
  • Coastal Catch: Seafood shines fresh from the nets, with crispy fish fry, crab masala, and squid items.
  • Street Side Delights: Must-try food in Chennai includes sundal (spiced chickpeas), murukku (crunchy spirals), and kothu parotta (a minced flatbread hash).
  • Sweet Endings: Indulge in ghee-soaked Mysore Pak, cooling Jigarthanda, and rich Tirunelveli Halwa.

A top-down view of Mysore Pak kept on a silver platter with another sweet dish kept on a bowl next to it. It is a popular food in Chennai.
A close-up of a street vendor selling groundnuts, chickpeas, and cut slices of raw mango. This must-try food in Chennai is sold usually near beaches.

Where to Explore Chennai’s Food Scene


The city’s neighbourhoods serve as a sensory playground for food lovers, each offering a unique flavour of local culture. Staying at The Raintree puts you in the centre of the action—just 3 to 6 km from these major hubs—making your culinary exploration effortless via auto-rickshaw or cab ride.

  • T. Nagar: A bustling district home to iconic sweet shops like Grand Sweets, perfect for traditional treats.
  • Mylapore: Offers a taste of heritage with authentic pongal served near the city's ancient temples.
  • Marina Beach: The ultimate sunset destination to enjoy fresh sundal from local seaside vendors.
  • Local Markets & Cafes: Ideal for sampling both heritage recipes and modern reinterpretations

Local Flavours at The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road


After a day of culinary discovery, The Raintree provides an elevated way to enjoy must-try food in Chennai with added comfort and ambience. It blends local roots with 5-star sophistication across our signature venues:

  • Colony: Enjoy authentic continental dishes, traditional idli-dosa plates, and lavish buffets at the all-day multi-cuisine hub.
  • Chap Chay: A unique Thai-Asian fusion experience where you can try a do-it-yourself stir fry station.
  • Above Sea Level: The rooftop lounge is the perfect spot for craft cocktails, grilled delicacies, and gourmet snacks.

Outdoor rooftop venue with tables, chairs, and potted plants next to a waterbody at Above Sea Level inside The Raintree, St. Mary’s Road.
Facade view of The Raintree, St. Mary's Road, surrounded by trees and pots near the entrance under a vibrant sky.

Why The Raintree St. Mary’s Road is Best for Food Lovers


Located in Alwarpet, the hotel offers convenient access to major culinary districts while providing a relaxing retreat between food trails.

  • Luxury Living: Relax in modern accommodations equipped with premium amenities.
  • Wellness Facilities: Enjoy the rooftop infinity pool, gym, full-service spa, and concierge services.
  • Prime Connectivity: Perfectly situated on St. Mary's Road, just a short walk from Egmore, around 5 km from Marina Beach, and around 14 km from the airport.
  • Exclusive Offers: Book directly through the website to unlock exclusive discounts and special offers.

From fluffy idlis and peppery Chettinad to crispy murukku and frothy filter coffee, the famous food in Chennai captures the Tamil soul in every spice-laden bite. Staying at The Raintree, St. Mary's Road keeps you at the heart of the action, blending must-try food in Chennai with the luxury of a 5-star recovery.

FAQs


1. What is the famous food in Chennai for breakfast?
Power your morning with Chennai’s breakfast essentials: idli, dosa, and vada served with tangy sambar.

2. What are the most popular street foods in Chennai?
Sundal, murukku, and kothu parotta are the stars of the street carts.

3. Where can I find the best Chettinad items among the famous foods in Chennai?
For authentic, fiery mutton curry and chicken varuval, look for established local outlets like Anjappar.

4. Is there seafood available as a must-try food in Chennai?
Absolutely. Coastal favourites like fish fry and crab masala are highlights of the local seafood scene.

5. Why is filter coffee considered a popular food in Chennai?
It is more than a drink; it’s a ritual. The frothy, strong brew served in a davara is a hallmark of Chennai's hospitality.

6. Can I enjoy authentic flavours at The Raintree?
Yes! From South Indian specialities at Colony to rooftop snacks at Above Sea Level, The Raintree brings the best of the city's flavours to your doorstep.

Continue your booking