It would not be an exaggeration to call Chennai’s T Nagar the busiest shopping complex in the world. It is the retail hub of Chennai where some of the biggest saree, jewelery and family wear stores in the country dominate the scene. Not only locals, but travelers from Sri Lanka and Malaysia also come to shop till they drop. While T Nagar may be synonymous with shopping, large portions of this neighborhood are also residential and home to some of the city’s most unique dining experiences. From India’s only casual Malaysian diner to the country’s first Peranakan cuisine restaurant to a whole new spin on Indian cuisine, T Nagar has it all.
Here are 8 of the best foodie spots in vibrant T Nagar, Chennai:
1. Pandan Club
a constant flow of visitors from Southeast Asia who flock T Nagar Retail therapy may have influenced the location of India’s first restaurant dedicated to Peranakan or Nyonya cuisine, which dates back to the 15th century. This is MasterChef Shashi Chelliah’s first restaurant venture in India. The elegantly designed restaurant is embellished with signature Peranakan design elements such as handmade ceramic tiles and rattan frames that complete the dining experience. You will find true blue Peranakan dishes such as black nut lamb curry flavored blacknut (also known as buah keluk)
Where: Bajulla Road
2. moist
Run by celebrity chef Sabi Gorai, Dank has quickly become one of the most popular nightspots in Chennai. size does matter; Spread over three floors, it is one of the largest bars in India and includes a dedicated party space for private events. It’s not just a long list of beers, Dank is also a popular lunch hangout.
Where: Sir Thigaraya Road
Read also: 8 Must-Try Restaurants And Cafes In Chennai’s East Coast Road
Sting in T Nagar.
3. J-Hind, Grand Chennai by GRT Hotels
This is one of the most innovative restaurants in Chennai in a high-energy setting. J-Hind is a contemporary take on Indian cuisine that does not change the soul of the cuisine. The decor draws inspiration from the finest of Indian art, while the menu relies on modern cooking techniques that put Indian cuisine in a new context. It is not only good for ‘chana’ but also hits all the right flavor notes.
Where: Sir Thigaraya Road
Read also: 8 of the best new restaurants in Chennai to open in 2022
J-Hind
4. Basil With A Twist:
This is one of the most popular European restaurants in the city; Most of the regulars come back for the easygoing vibe and simple menu filled with comfort food. This charming restaurant works equally well for a date night or a family meal and offers an extensive menu. Their pizzas and pastas stay in the comfort zone, while some regulars also swear by their steaks and signature desserts – the panna cotta and baklava ice cream are both house favourites.
Where: Habibullah Road
5. Skye, The Residency Towers
‘Sky’, the name is a cheap one. This is one of the newest rooftop restaurants in Chennai and easily one of the most talked about new restaurants to be launched. It’s open all day and offers a choice of indoor and alfresco options – four dining venues in all. We’d recommend getting there before sunset, sipping on a sundowner – choose from a list of artisanal cocktails – before diving into their menu dominated by Asian staples. There’s everything from dim sum to sushi rolls and fiery curries in the mix.
Where: Sir Thigaraya Road
Read also: 7 New Chennai Cafes & Lounges You Must Try
6. Husband Vidu
‘Pati Veedu’ literally meaning grandmother’s house, this restaurant aims to evoke nostalgia and take you back in time when traditional cuisine held sway. The ambiance adds to the story, this beautifully renovated bungalow is a break from the standard restaurant templates. You get a choice of traditional vegetarian Tamil food along with heritage dishes. Apart from signatures like Arachuvitta Sambar or Drumstick Rasam, the huge meal platter includes a range of starters and desserts.
Where: Bhagirathi Ammal Street
Read also: Best Standalone Restaurants & Bars in Anna Nagar, Chennai
7. New Andhra Mile Hotel
T Nagar has long been one of the centers of Chennai’s large Telugu community and one of the best places for Andhra cuisine. Whether you are looking for Andhra-style sweets or podis (powders), Tea Nagar offers a range of options. This busy restaurant located in the heart of the bustling Pandi Bazar shopping district is one of the best Chennai For an Andhra-style ‘full meal’.
Where: Sir Thigaraya Road, Pondy Bazaar
8. Nasi Kandahar Pelita
Whether you’re in need of a ‘Roti Bomb’ filled with condensed milk or chicken satay, Pelita doesn’t disappoint. The Chennai outpost of a popular Malaysian chain, this casual eatery is a haven for Malaysians visiting Chennai or locals looking for an authentic plate of nasi goreng. Wash it down with Iced Milo – Malaysia’s unofficial national drink
Where: Sir Thigaraya Road