Get Jiggy With Jigarthanda In Chennai At These 8 Great Spots

Originated in Madurai, the literal translation of Jigarthanda is ‘cool heart’ and is an apt name for a cold and refreshing drink that is meant for the summer. In Madurai, Jigarthanda is served at roadside stalls and frozen cold to beat the heat. Given that Chennai is still in the middle of summer, it makes sense to give you a lowdown on where you can get your hands on a glass or two of this delicious cold drink. It’s available almost everywhere, but there are some specific places you should definitely visit.

Popularised by Muslin settlers near Madurai, it has now become a common drink amongst people all over Tamil Nadu. And obviously as the capital of the state, Chennai has quite a few places where you can get your hands on this delicious cold drink. And for those wondering what the special ingredients are, it’s really simple – badam pisin, milk, nannari sherbet, ice cream and sugar. Keep watching this space for more, we’ll get you a recipe soon enough.

Madurai Vilakuthoon Hanifa Jigarthanda

The restaurant has the name of the infamous drink included, so you know that if you were to go anywhere to get your hands on this delicious nectar, this would be it. Reviews from far and wide will tell you that if you’re looking for the best jigarthanda in Chennai, this is the only place you should go. But we’re going to give you a few more options anyway.

Location: T. Nagar

Maplai

Serving authentic South India food, it seems only appropriate that they would also have jigarthanda on the menu. It may not be as cheap or the same as the spot above, but they give you exactly what you’ve come looking for. The magic about South India is that we like to share.

Location: Nungambakkam

Dindigul Thalappakatti

Famous for their biryanis, Dindigul is also known for serving tall cold glasses of jigarthanda. And can you just imagine how delicious your meal would be when it’s a plate of hot biryani and a cold glass of jigarthanda? Our mouths are watering just thinking about it.

Locations: Velachery, Nungambakkam, T. Nagar and Mogappair

BR Mathsya

This restaurant might be popular for it’s delicious South Indian breakfasts, but there is absolutely no perfect time in the day to indulge in a glass of jigarthanda. And if you don’t believe us, get your breakfast and a filter coffee and when it’s all over, sip on this cold nectar of the gods and tell us we’re wrong.

Location: T. Nagar

Murugan Idli Shop

Everyone who has been to Murugan Idli Shop will know that whatever you want can be found in this restaurant. Their idlis are to die for, their breakfasts even more so and in general, their food is absolutely amazing. It’s why they have so many outlets across the city and why everyone will recommend them for a great South Indian breakfast. But ask anyone where to get the best jigarthanda and this is place shares the top spot.

Locations: Besant Nagar, T. Nagar, Anna Nagar East, Kilpauk and more.

Dakshina Puram

What they serve is great Andhra and Kerala food, making your mouths water the minute you set food inside the restaurant. But start your South Indian meal off with a glass of rose water or even a jigarthanda and it honestly won’t matter what you’re eating after, because that drink is going to make your day.

Location: Karapakkam

Honey Spice

Yes, we know it sounds like a Chinese restaurant, but this South Indian restaurant has great biryanis and fantastic carrot halwa too. So to balance out the large plate of biryani you get, you must obviously treat yourself to a glass of jigarthanda, right?

Location: GST Road

Namma Veedu Vasanta Bhavan

As a trusted name in South Indian food, you know you’re in for a treat when it comes to what VB has to offer. So pick your favourite dish and pair with a glass of jigarthanda and all will be okay. Trust us.