Fine Dining Restaurants in Chennai: A Culinary Journey Through Luxury and Taste
- Aj
- Mar 25
- 4 min read
Chennai, the cultural capital of South India, is known not only for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and bustling streets but also for its incredible culinary scene. While South Indian cuisine has become globally beloved, there’s no better place to experience its true essence than in Chennai. From traditional flavours to modern twists, the city offers a variety of fine-dining experiences that reflect the diverse, vibrant culture of the region.
Whether you’re seeking a luxurious seafood feast by the coast or indulging in an elegant vegetarian meal in an intimate setting, Chennai has a fine dining restaurant to meet every craving. Here’s a list of the finest dining establishments in the city, where exceptional food, beautiful ambience, and impeccable service await.
1. Avartana – ITC Grand Chola
Avartana is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience that brings together South Indian culinary traditions with an elegant modern presentation. Located in the luxurious ITC Grand Chola Hotel, Avartana offers an innovative take on South Indian cuisine. The ambience of the restaurant is stylish yet serene, with soft lighting and contemporary decor that creates a refined setting. Each dish is meticulously prepared by skilled chefs, offering a fusion of classic flavours and artistic presentation. The staff is well-trained, offering deep insights into the origins and cultural significance of each dish.
The restaurant is renowned for its unique dishes like Carrot Ice Cream and Mini Idlis, which take traditional South Indian flavours to a new level. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience South Indian fine dining at its best.
Cuisine: South Indian, Chinese, Desserts
Signature Dishes: Carrot Ice Cream, Mini Idlis
Ambience: Elegant, Modern
Location: ITC Grand Chola Hotel, Little Mount, Chennai
Cost for two: ₹4,500 (Approx. $54)
Timings: 7 pm - 11 pm
3. Savya Rasa
If you’re craving an authentic taste of South India, Savya Rasa is a must-visit. This restaurant is known for its commitment to preserving the authenticity of South Indian cuisine, offering dishes that span the regions of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Mangalore. The chefs at Savya Rasa have spent years learning from local sources and even grandmothers to perfect these age-old recipes.
The rustic charm of the restaurant, combined with traditional South Indian cooking methods, makes for a delightful dining experience. Be sure to try the Elaneer Payasam and Rose Milk, which are perfect representations of the South Indian sweet tradition.
Cuisine: South Indian
Signature Dishes: Elaneer Payasam, Rose Milk
Ambience: Traditional, Cozy
Location: Valliammai Achi St, Kotturpuram, Chennai
Cost for two: ₹1,600 (Approx. $19)
Timings: 12 pm - 4 pm; 6 pm - 10 pm
4. Pandan Club – T. Nagar
Experience the extraordinary at Pandan Club, Chennai’s first Modern Peranakan restaurant, helmed by MasterChef Season 10 winner Sashi Cheliah. Offering a beautiful fusion of Chinese and Malay flavours, along with Malaysian culinary traditions, the restaurant brings an innovative dining experience to the city.
Don't miss signature dishes like Coconut Chicken Curry, Pulut Tai Tai, and Singapore Cereal Prawns, all meticulously crafted by the acclaimed chef. The elegant atmosphere is the perfect setting for indulging in these exquisite creations, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts looking for something extraordinary.
Cuisine: Peranakan (Chinese & Malay Fusion)
Signature Dishes: Coconut Chicken Curry, Pulut Tai Tai, Singapore Cereal Prawns
Ambience: Elegant, Modern
Location: T. Nagar, Chennai
Cost for two: ₹2,500 (Approx. $30)
Timings: 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
5. Annalakshmi Restaurant
Annalakshmi offers a unique dining experience that combines spirituality with fine food. With its serene ambience, sandalwood-scented interiors, and beautiful idols, this vegetarian restaurant is perfect for those seeking a calm, reflective space to enjoy their meal. The restaurant’s Sampoorna Thaali is a crowd favourite, offering a complete South Indian meal with multiple delicacies served in traditional style.
What makes Annalakshmi stand out is its focus on pure vegetarian cuisine prepared with the freshest ingredients. Whether you're here for lunch, dinner, or breakfast, you’re in for a wholesome, satisfying experience.
Cuisine: South Indian, North Indian, Continental
Signature Dishes: Sampoorna Thaali
Ambience: Spiritual, Calm
Location: Mayor Ramanathan Salai, Spur Tank Road, Chennai
Cost for two: ₹1,500 (Approx. $18)
Timings: 12:00 pm - 2:30 pm; 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
6. Chettinad Canteen
Located in the heart of Teynampet, Chettinad Canteen is a must-visit for those who appreciate authentic Chettinad cuisine. The restaurant serves its dishes in a sequential manner, allowing diners to savour each bite as it’s meant to be enjoyed, making the meal an immersive experience.
With options like the Chicken Vellai Kuruma and rich Kulkhand Payasam, the restaurant promises a deep dive into the fiery and flavorful world of Chettinad cuisine. Their five-course and seven-course meals, starting at ₹890 (Approx. $11) and ₹1,090 (Approx. $13), respectively, offer great value for a top-tier dining experience. Pre-booking is recommended to ensure you enjoy the full experience.
Cuisine: Chettinad
Signature Dishes: Chicken Vellai Kuruma, Kulkhand Payasam
Ambience: Cozy, Authentic
Location: Teynampet, Chennai
Cost for two: ₹1,800 (Approx. $22)
Timings: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm; 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Conclusion
Chennai’s fine dining scene is a rich tapestry of traditional South Indian flavours, global cuisines, and inventive culinary artistry. Whether you’re craving a sumptuous South Indian thali, a vibrant seafood dish, or a decadent dessert, the city’s finest restaurants promise to deliver unforgettable experiences. With prices ranging from budget-friendly to luxury dining, Chennai is sure to impress every food lover. Whether you're dining in a stylish hotel or a cosy local restaurant, the flavours of Chennai will leave you craving more.