I still remember the first time I tasted Tres Leches Cake at Ten Degrees, one of the most popular restaurants in Kodaikanal. I resolved to drive back to this sweet treat. That was six years ago; I go back at least once a year for this dessert. This is not the only dining experience in Kodaikanal, which is one of the favorite hill retreats of South India. Kodai was once a summer vacation to beat the humidity of Chennai, but is now a year-round destination. Many experienced travelers visit Kodaikanal during the week or during the colder months to beat the crowds.
From mountainous trails and treks to golf to spectacular panoramas, Kodaikanal has a lot to offer. Kodai’s foodie scene is just an excuse to visit this charming hill station, an eight-hour drive from Chennai. Most of the popular eateries are located around the center of Kodaikanal – the 7-road junction, but there are also a few places outside the city that are worth the trek.
Trech Leach Cake at Ten Degrees. Image credit: Ashwin Rajagopalan.
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1. Ten Degrees:
This restaurant takes its name from the location (10.23 degree north) of Kodaikanal. The interiors are cheerful and comfortable, just the kind of place you would stop for a long lunch. The menu is a fine mix of Southern Indian and International cuisines with a twist. The devilish wasabi coated prawns with a hint of honey and sesame are the highlight of the menu, while the lemon chicken with a smidgen of lemongrass and basil is one of the must-try mains. Desserts are a big attraction here; My favorites include the fail-proof tres leches cake and the chocolate mousse with a hint of orange.
PT Road (Near 7-Road Junction)
Ten Degrees Cafe. Image credit: Ashwin Rajagopalan.
2. Passiflora Ristorante Italiano:
There are few restaurants in Kodaikanal that can match the views of the popular outdoor seating area in Passiflora. Kodaikanal is also beautiful 40 minutes drive from town to Poombarai village. It’s not just the panoramic views, the food also hits the right notes from this casual Italian diner that are worth the drive. The restaurant’s Pink Sauce Vodka Pasta is one of their bestsellers; Regulars also swear by some of their meat dishes, such as carpaccio.
Mannavanur to Kodaikanal Road, Poombarai.
View of Passiflora Ristrorante Italiano. Image credit: Ashwin Rajagopalan.
3. Tamara Kodai:
Benes Bungalow was one of the first big houses to be built in Kodaikanal. This heritage building dates back to the 1840s and has been turned into one of the most beautiful resorts in Kodai. Bistro 1845 is a French-style la carte bistro and bar serving European, Asian and Indian cuisine. This vintage-themed resto-bar offers a choice of outdoor and indoor settings. If you prefer buffets, you can check out La Providence in the original building.
La Providence, St. Mary’s Road.
Tamara Restaurant, Kodaikanal.
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4. Tawa:
My first visit to this family-run vegetarian eatery in the busy 7-Road Junction area was during a backpacking trip to Kodai, when I was in college. Tawa continues to appeal to travelers on a budget as well as visitors seeking home-style North Indian food. The service is quick and the parathas and dal tadka at Kodai are the perfect comfort on a cold winter night.
PT Road (Near 7-Road Junction)
5. Abi’s Kitchen:
A popular campus hangout, Abby’s is perfect for your chaat or casual meal. The menu is a mish-mash with everything from sizzlers to Tex Mex-style quesadillas. Most locals come back for their corn toast and grilled sandwiches. This little cafe is full of character and is also perfect for your masala chai or hot chocolate fix when the temperature drops.
PT Road (Near 7-Road Junction)
6. Cafe Cariappa:
Perfect for those coffees and cakes that can strike any time of the day in Kodaikanal. You are unlikely to find a better mug of coffee anywhere in Kodai. They roast and brew their own organic coffee (you can also buy coffee powder here). The staff know their coffee while the Carrot Cake and Cashew Caramel Cake are both fantastic.
PT Road (Near 7-Road Junction)
Cafe Cariappa, Kodaikanal.
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7. Cloud Street:
There is always time for pizza and pasta in Kodaikanal, especially during the colder months. Cloud Street is a popular stop for their wood-fired pizzas and hearty pastas – the creamy pesto is a crowd favorite. Stop by for dessert – One of the best ways to wrap up a meal at Kodai is with an apple slice.
PT Road (Near 7-Road Junction)
Cafe Cloud Street, Kodaikanal.