Top 10 Chettinad Hotels in Chennai
Hello non-veg lovers! If you’re craving some spicy, flavorful Chettinad food, we’ve got you covered. After exploring every corner of Chennai, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 Chettinad hotels in the city. Get ready to treat yourself to some mouthwatering mutton, chicken, and seafood dishes this weekend. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Chettinad cuisine or trying it for the first time, these places are sure to hit the spot. Time to dig in!
A little history of chettinad dishes
Chettinad cuisine originates from the Chettinad region in Tamil Nadu, known for its bold, spicy flavors and aromatic spices. It’s a hallmark of the community of traditionally merchants, who brought influences from their travels into their cooking. The cuisine features a wide range of non-vegetarian dishes, especially mutton, chicken, and seafood, alongside unique vegetarian options. Signature ingredients include freshly ground masalas, black pepper, curry leaves, and tamarind. With its focus on slow cooking and intense flavors, Chettinad food has earned a special place in South Indian culinary traditions.
FAQS
1.What is Chettinad cuisine?
Chettinad cuisine is a famous South Indian cooking style from Tamil Nadu, known for its rich, spicy, and aromatic dishes.
2.What are key ingredients in Chettinad cooking?
Common ingredients include black pepper, curry leaves, tamarind, coconut, and freshly ground spices like fennel, star anise, and cinnamon.
3.What are some popular Chettinad dishes?
Popular dishes include Chettinad chicken, mutton chukka, crab curry, and Chettinad biryani.
4.Is Chettinad cuisine always spicy?
Yes, it tends to be quite spicy, but the heat is well-balanced with the rich flavors of the spices.
5.Is Chettinad food only non-vegetarian?
While known for its non-vegetarian dishes, Chettinad cuisine also offers a variety of flavorful vegetarian options like paniyaram and vegetable curries.
6.What is a Chettinad thali?
A Chettinad thali is a complete meal served on a plate, typically including rice, curries, gravies, and side dishes like vegetables, papad, and chutneys.
7.What is Chettinad masala?
Chettinad masala is a blend of spices like black pepper, cumin, fennel seeds, and dried red chilies, which are dry-roasted and ground fresh for use in many dishes.
8.What makes Chettinad biryani different?
Chettinad biryani uses short-grain rice, with a spicier and more aromatic flavor profile compared to other biryanis
List of top 10 Chettinad hotels in Chennai
1. Karaikudi Chettinad restaurant, VR Mall
Karaikudi Chettinad Restaurant, located in VR Mall, Anna Nagar, Chennai, is celebrated for bringing the authentic flavours of Chettinad cuisine to an urban audience. This restaurant, a part of a 30-year-old Chennai-based brand, offers a rich variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that embody the quintessential tastes of the Chettinad region.
Website: https://www.instagram.com/kaaraikudichettinadrestaurant/
Signature dishes: Biryani, karandi omelette, nandu rasam, sora puttu, etc
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Chinese, North Indian SeaFood, Beverages
Average cost: ₹800 for two
Location: 4950, Pycrofts Rd, Express Estate, Royapettah, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600002
Timing: 11 am–10:30 pm
Contact number: 04428111893
Ratings: Google 4.8 based on 2039 reviews
2. Curry Box
Curry Box in Perungudi, Chennai, stands out as a beacon for those craving authentic South Indian flavours, particularly Chettinad cuisine. Renowned for its flavorful dishes that are crafted using homemade spice blends and fresh ingredients, this flagship restaurant has garnered a loyal following among its clientele.
Website: https://www.currybox.in/
Signature dishes: Clay pot chicken Dum Parotta, Nandu Omelette, Kozhi Uppu Kari, etc
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Chinese and Sichuan
Average cost: ₹200-₹400 per Person
Location: UCH Municipality, No. 1118, Advent Church, MGR Salai, 5/352, Church Rd, Kandhanchavadi, Perungudi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600096
Timing: 12–4:30 pm, 6–11 pm
Contact number: 073055 86555
Ratings: Google 4.7 based on 2K reviews
3. Southern spice - Taj Coromandel
Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel in Chennai is a well-known restaurant offering authentic South Indian food, especially Chettinad dishes. The place has a beautiful traditional look and serves popular items like Chettinad chicken curry, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. Their thali, which includes a variety of regional specialties, is a must-try, making it a great spot for a special South Indian meal.
Website: https://www.tajhotels.com/en-in
Signature dishes: Coriander Chutney, Elaneer Payasam, Appam, Thali, Dessert, Sambar
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian
Average cost: ₹3,500 for two
Location: Uthamar Gandhi Rd, Anna Salai, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600034
Timing: 12:30–3 pm, 7–11:30 pm
Contact number: 044 6600 2827
Ratings: Google 4.6 based on 1056 reviews
4. Erode Amman Mess
Renowned for their authentic South Indian dishes, Erode Amman mess offers an array of exquisite non-vegetarian delicacies cooked with traditional flavours and techniques. It stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the true taste of authentic South Indian cuisine.
Signature dishes: Thali, pichipota kara kozhi, pallipalayam chicken. Kozhi rasam, japan chicken, etc
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Seafood
Average cost: ₹800 for two
Location: Police Station, No.163, SMS Building LB Road, Landmark:, near Adyar, behind Sony Showroom, Signal, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600041
Timing: 12–4 pm, 7–11 pm
Contact number: 09884887559
Ratings: Google 4.3 based on 5086 reviews
5. Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant Nungambakkam
Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant, with its roots in Chennai, India, has become a global ambassador for Chettinad cuisine, renowned for its rich flavours and use of fresh ingredients. Starting in 1964 under the vision of Mr. Anjappan and with the blessings of the iconic actor Sri M G Ramachandran, Anjappar has expanded from a single outlet to a worldwide presence, boasting over 48 outlets in India and more than 35 internationally, spanning 25 countries.
Website: https://www.anjappar.com/
Signature dishes: nalli roast, biryani, kotthu parotta
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Chinese, North Indian, Sea Food, Beverages
Average cost: ₹700 for two
Location: 1, Velachery Bypass Rd, Kamarajapuram, Ganapathy Nagar, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600042
Timing: 11:30 am–11:30 pm
Contact number: 09551067083
Ratings: Google 3.9 based on 3728 reviews
6. Amma Chettinadu Restaurant
Amma Chettinadu Restaurant in T. Nagar was established in 1983. The restaurant’s ambiance, marked by the nostalgic presence of MGR movie songs and a collection of MGR photos, adds a unique touch to the dining experience, making it more than just about the food. It’s an experience that transports you to a different era.
Website: https://amma-chettinadu-restaurant.business.site/
Signature dishes: Thali, Seafood, Mutton, soup, fish, biryani
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Chinese, North Indian, Sea Food, Beverages
Average cost: ₹700 for two
Location: Gopathi Narayanaswami Chetty Road, 1, Giri Rd, T. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017
Timing: 11:30 am–11 pm
Contact number: 04428340242
Ratings: Google 3.9 based on 4175 reviews
7. Chettinad Canteen
Chettinad Canteen is a fine dining restaurant known for its authentic Chettinad cuisine and ambiance, serving a variety of traditional dishes that cater to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences.
Signature dishes: 5 & 7-course meal, rasam, etc
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Beverages
Average cost: ₹1000 for two
Location: 50, Seethammal Road, Seethammal Colony, Lubdhi Colony, Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600018
Timing: 12:30–3 pm, 7:30–10 pm
Contact number: 09363631080
Ratings: Google 4.6 based on 576 reviews
8. Madurai Kumar Mess, Vadapalani
Madurai Kumar Mess has been serving authentic Chettinad cuisine since 1975. Founded by Dharmalingam Pillai during Madurai’s Chithirai Thiruvizha, it has grown from a single-meal service to seven outlets in Madurai and Chennai.
Website: https://www.maduraikumarmess.com/
Signature dishes: bucket biryani, kari dosai, vanjaram fish kulambu, masala omelette, etc
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Seafood
Average cost: ₹500 for two
Location: No 165 & 167, 100 Feet Rd, Vadapalani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600026
Timing: 11:30 am–4 pm, 6–11 pm
Contact number: 04424809999
Ratings: Google 4.1 based on 8193 reviews
9. Parambriym
Parambriym is a popular South Indian restaurant with multiple locations in Chennai, including Anna Nagar and Velachery. Known for its authentic Chettinad cuisine, it offers a wide variety of dishes, such as Chettinad-style biryani, mutton chukka, and spicy seafood preparations. The restaurant combines traditional flavors with a modern dining experience, often praised for its reasonable pricing and flavorful meals. It’s a great spot for those seeking a satisfying and authentic South Indian meal in a casual yet inviting setting.
Website: http://www.parambriym.com/
Signature dishes:Mutton Paya, Mutton Pepper Fry, Mutton Chukka, Soups, Egg, Starters
Cuisine: Chettinad, South Indian, Biryani, Chinese, Desserts
Average cost: ₹1,100 for two
Location: W Floor, 3rd, 126, 1st Street, Santha Avenue, Anna Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600040
Timing: 11:45 am–3:30 pm, 6:30–10:45 pm
Contact number: 04426265557
Ratings: Google 3.9 based on 1791 reviews
10. T.Nagar Pudukkottai Ayya Chettinad Mess
Pudukottai Ayya Chettinad Mess, located in T. Nagar, Chennai, is highly rated for its authentic Chettinad cuisine, offering a variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Ayya Chettinad Mess offers a comfortable dining experience with facilities like breakfast options and open-air seating, making it an inviting place for a traditional meal with family and friends.
Website: https://ayya-chettinad-mess.business.site/
Signature dishes: Biryani, non-veg meals, etc.
Cuisine: Chettinad, Chinese, South Indian, Biryani, Seafood
Average cost: ₹800 for two
Location: 7, Masilamani St, Parthasarathi Puram, T. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017
Timing: 11:30 am–3:30 pm, 6:30–11 pm
Contact number: 09444020069
Ratings: Google 4.3 based on 1828 reviews
