Best Seafood Restaurants in Chennai: A Culinary Journey Through the Bay of Bengal
- Aj
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
When in Chennai, sampling the city's seafood is a must. With its coastal location along the Bay of Bengal, the city offers an incredible array of fresh catches and vibrant coastal flavours. Whether it's butter garlic lobsters, Karimeen Pollichathu, or ceviche made with freshly caught sea bass, Chennai's seafood scene is brimming with delightful options for all tastes. From local seafood shacks to fine beachside dining, here’s a guide to the best seafood spots in Chennai, as recommended by top foodies.
1. C Salt at Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa, ECR
Location: 280, East Coast Rd, Vadanemmeli
For those looking for a blend of luxury and seafood, C Salt at Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa is a must-visit. Located along the stunning East Coast Road (ECR) with unhindered views of the Coromandel Coast, this beachside restaurant offers a mix of South Indian coastal seafood and some signature international dishes. The ambience, set against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal, elevates the dining experience. A standout dish here is the salmon cream cheese kuzhi paniyaram, a unique fusion of coastal ingredients.
What to Try:
Salmon Cream Cheese Kuzhi Paniyaram
Butter Garlic Lobster
Grilled Fish Platter
Foodie Tip: “Chennai is easily one of India’s best cities for seafood, and C Salt is one of the finest spots to indulge in coastal flavours,” says Ashwin Rajagopalan, food writer.
2. Kai from the Sea, Uthandi
Location: 2,150, East Coast Rd, Uthandi (next to PVR)
If you’re in the mood for some fresh and flavorful seafood, Kai from the Sea in Uthandi is a must-try. Known for its excellent ceviche made with sea bass, the restaurant offers a variety of both local and international seafood dishes. Their butter garlic lobster and soft shell crab are crowd favourites, with the menu frequently changing to feature the freshest catches of the day. The "catch of the day" concept, sourced from local fishing communities, ensures that the seafood is always fresh.
What to Try:
Ceviche with Sea Bass
Butter Garlic Lobster
Soft Shell Crab
Foodie Tip: “The ceviche here, made with orange juice and lime, is one of the best in the city,” shares Mathangi Kumar, chef and culinary consultant.
3. Nair Mess, Chepauk
Location: No 22, Mohammed Abdullah Sahib, 2nd St, Chepauk
For a truly local experience, head to Nair Mess in Chepauk. This unpretentious mess-style eatery is beloved for its no-frills, authentic seafood dishes. The Vanjaram fish fry, paired with a slice of lemon and rice, is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish. The restaurant is clean and well-lit, with a bustling atmosphere that adds to its charm. It’s a great spot to experience Chennai’s beloved mess-style seafood.
What to Try:
Vanjaram Fish Fry
Crab Curry with Rice
Fish Thali
Foodie Tip: “Nair Mess serves generous portions at affordable prices, making it a go-to for locals and visitors alike,” says Abbas Shahzad, founder of Butterheads.
4. Thoondil The Family Restaurant, ECR
Location: 19A, East Coast Road, Panaiyur, J Nagar
Set amidst a garden-like atmosphere, Thoondil The Family Restaurant is perfect for a relaxed family meal. Situated along the East Coast Road, this restaurant is known for its delectable seafood, especially its squid fry, which is cooked to perfection without being chewy or rubbery. Their nethili fry (anchovy fry) is also a crowd favorite, crispy on the outside and tender inside. The outdoor setting, complete with ponds and roaming ducks, makes for a charming and breezy dining experience.
What to Try:
Squid Fry
Nethili Fry
Fish Curry with Ghee Rice
Foodie Tip: “Thoondil is ideal for large groups or families, thanks to its spacious setup and cosy ambience,” says Abbas Shahzad.
5. The Marina, Nungambakkam
Location: 39, College Ln, Thousand Lights West, Nungambakkam
One of the most popular seafood spots in Chennai, The Marina in Nungambakkam offers a range of dishes that highlight the freshest seafood. The live seafood counter is a highlight, where diners can select their catch and choose the preparation style. Their Kandhari garlic squid and Prawns Lasooni are particularly recommended, as they have a perfect balance of flavours. The Karimeen Pollichathu (fish wrapped in banana leaves and grilled) is another speciality.
What to Try:
Kandhari Garlic Squid
Prawns Lasooni
Karimeen Pollichathu
Foodie Tip: “The live seafood counter lets you pick your catch of the day and choose how it’s prepared, ensuring maximum freshness,” shares Mathangi Kumar.
Conclusion
Chennai’s seafood scene is as diverse as its culture, with options that range from casual mess-style eateries to upscale beachside restaurants. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Chettinad fish curry, Kerala-style grilled fish, or international preparations like ceviche and lobster, Chennai has something to offer every seafood lover. So, next time you're in the city, make sure to indulge in the freshest seafood available and enjoy the vibrant flavours that Chennai's coastline has to offer.