Have a Happy Vishu and Tamil Puthandu in Chennai This Year

April 14^th, 2016 marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year for both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Both states celebrate the new year in different ways, but everyone treats themselves to an authentic and traditional feast. It’s a celebration of life, food, luck, money and happiness.

In Kerala, for Vishu is also considered a festival of lights and fireworks. New clothes are bought, money is given and a sadhya is enjoyed. In Tamil Nadu, Puthandu is also the season when mangoes are ready for plucking.

There are so much happening in Chennai for these two festivals, but if you still don’t know where you should go to eat authentic South Indian food, let this list help you.

Maplai, Nungambakkam

This Nungambakkam restaurant gives a twist to their South Indian food, but their thalis are popular and so are their biryanis. While the festivals are vegetarian, you can still treat yourself to some chicken or mutton.

Madras – The Raintree Hotel, Anna Salai

While on the slightly more expensive side of the list, this restaurant at The Raintree, Anna Salai will treat you to a feast of great South Indian food that you don’t want to miss, including thalis and Malabar parottas.

Nellai Xpress, R. K Salai

If you’re looking for a non-vegetarian spread – not entirely a Vishu or Puthandu thing – Nellai Xpress has a full menu of fish, chicken, egg and vegetarian to choose from. Plus, their thalis are quite popular.

Jakob’s Kitchen, Nungambakkam

Every South Indian in Chennai has either heard of Jakob’s or has been here. They have vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals to choose from!

Krishnavillasam, Nungambakkam

This pure vegetarian restaurant is famous for their thalis – or saapadu as they call it – which changes with each day and includes rice, a special kuzhambu and more.

Ente Keralam, Poes Garden

No list about South Indian food is complete without the mention of one of the best restaurants in the city that serves Kerala cuisine. Thalis and other Kerala dishes are all available to choose from.  

Taj Hotels Chennai

And if that’s not enough, visit the Taj Hotels Chennai for different kinds of buffets and thalis. For more information, check here.