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3 Days in Chennai for a Tasty Food Trip
Chennai is a paradise for food lovers, with its mix of traditional Tamil flavors, coastal seafood, and street food gems. I've spent years eating my way through the city, and this itinerary covers the must-try spots—from crispy dosas at legendary joints to spicy Chettinad curries and fresh seafood by the beach. You'll leave with a happy stomach and maybe a few extra kilos!
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Day 1
Day 1 in Chennai
Kick off your Chennai food adventure with iconic landmarks and must-try local flavors, from crispy dosas to aromatic filter coffee.
Activities
Breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop
Start your day like a true Chennaite with a steaming plate of soft idlis and crispy ghee roast dosas at this legendary spot. The coconut chutney and sambar here are legendary, and the filter coffee is the perfect kickstart. Try their signature 'kancheepuram idli' for something different.
- They have multiple branches, but the T. Nagar original has the best vibe
- Ask for 'meter coffee' if you want to see the dramatic pouring technique
Explore Kapaleeshwarar Temple & Mylapore Food Walk
After breakfast, head to the colorful Kapaleeshwarar Temple, one of Chennai's most important Shiva temples. The surrounding Mylapore neighborhood is packed with food stalls - don't miss the 'sundal' (spiced chickpeas) from temple vendors or the 'kothu parotta' from street carts. Stop by Rayar's Cafe for their famous 'mysore pak' sweet.
- Remove footwear before entering temple
- Carry small change for street food vendors
Lunch at Ratna Cafe
No Chennai food tour is complete without Ratna Cafe's iconic 'sambar idli' - fluffy idlis drowned in their signature tangy sambar. The place is always buzzing with locals, and the metal plates add to the authentic experience. Pair your meal with their strong, frothy filter coffee served in stainless steel tumblers.
- They don't take reservations - be prepared to wait during peak times
- Try their 'ghee podi idli' for extra flavor
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Chennai
A mix of history, beachside relaxation, and iconic food stops that showcase Chennai's vibrant culture and flavors.
Activities
Morning at Fort St. George
Start your day at Fort St. George, the first British fortress in India built in 1644. The fort houses St. Mary's Church, the oldest Anglican church in India, and a museum with artifacts from the colonial era. The quiet morning light makes it a great time to explore the well-preserved structures and learn about Chennai's colonial past.
- Carry water - it gets warm by late morning
- Photography allowed but check for restrictions in museum sections
Lunch at Buhari Hotel
Head to Buhari Hotel, the birthplace of Chennai's famous Chicken 65. This iconic restaurant has been serving delicious Mughlai and Chettinad dishes since 1951. Try their legendary Chicken 65, mutton biryani, and flaky parottas with salna (spicy gravy). The old-world ambiance adds to the experience.
- Ask for 'extra crispy' Chicken 65 if you like it well-done
- Their rose milk is a perfect palate cooler
Evening at Marina Beach & Lighthouse
Spend the late afternoon at Marina Beach, the second longest urban beach in the world. Walk along the shore, try some street snacks, and visit the iconic lighthouse. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city as the sun begins to set. The beach comes alive in the evenings with locals flying kites, playing games, and enjoying the sea breeze.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on sand
- Try the sundal (steamed legumes) from beach vendors
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Chennai Hidden Gems Day
A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots, local markets, and authentic food joints that showcase Chennai's vibrant culture beyond the usual tourist trail.
Activities
Breakfast at Kalathi Stall & Morning at Broken Bridge
Start your day with crispy, golden-brown 'kalathi dosa' at this legendary roadside stall in RA Puram—a favorite among locals for decades. Then head to Broken Bridge (Marmalong Bridge) in Adyar, a picturesque spot where the Adyar River meets the sea. Walk along the quiet stretch, watch fishermen at work, and soak in the peaceful morning vibes.
- Kalathi Stall has no seating—eat standing like locals
- Carry water as Broken Bridge has no shade
Cholamandal Artists' Village & Lunch at Madras Karpagam
Visit India's largest artists' commune, where you can see working studios, contemporary art galleries, and traditional handicrafts under swaying palm trees. Later, dig into a proper Chettinad-style banana leaf meal at Madras Karpagam—their spicy pepper chicken and melt-in-the-mouth mutton sukka are legendary.
- Artists often work mornings—best time to see them create
- Ask for 'extra ghee' with your rice at Karpagam for the full experience
Evening at Thiruvanmiyur Beach & Local Tea Time
Skip the crowded Marina and head to this quieter local beach where fishermen haul in their catch at sunset. Wrap up at a nearby 'tea kadai' (like Sri Krishna Tea Stall) with strong Madras filter coffee and crispy 'sukku bai' (dry ginger snacks) as locals debate cricket and politics around you.
- Wear slip-ons—beach has fishing debris
- Try the 'special tea' with ginger at Krishna Stall