In Historic times before its colonisation, Most Indian people were pure vegetarians. Especially in the south, there are a Countless number of vegetarian dishes prepared that are unique to the area of origin. With more people becoming health conscious in today’s society, the number of vegetarians is on the rise again. Chennai being the biggest metropolis in the south boasts a vibrant food scene with some of the best vegetarian hotels in India. So if you are heading there and fancy a delicious Vegetarian meal, these are the places you have got to visit.
1.
Royal Indianaa
True to its name, the Royal Indianaa Hotel at the Accord in T.Nagar exudes a grand ambience that elevates your meal there to another level. Vegetarian food from all over India made fresh with the best ingredients can be enjoyed here. Make sure to attend their spectacular buffet which offers a wide array of tantalising dishes from which to choose.
2.
Annalakshmi
A pure vegetarian hotel that originated in Malaysia in the 80s’ and run by a Non-profit organisation, a part of all proceeds from Annalakshmi go towards maintaining the Temple of Arts, A centre that provides charity and encourages artistic and creative activities. The hotel is located on Rukmani Lakshmipathi Road a short distance from the Air India offices. The dishes are prepared from Tamil recipes. Try out the Daily Rasam special with the vegetarian thali.
3.
Peaches
This Fusion restaurant on the Velachery Bypass in Rajalakshmi Nagar is popular for its menu that contains dishes from around the world including Italian, Mexican and Arabic cuisine. Their dishes are a clever combination of cooking styles from various places and result in quirky but delicious dishes. Make sure to try out their wide variety of fresh salads.
4.
Hotel Saravana Bhavan
We cannot talk about vegetarian hotels in India without mentioning the Saravana Bhavan chain of restaurants. This legendary restaurant opened its first branch in 1981 and had spread to multiple locations all around the world including US, UK, Europe, Malaysia, Singapore and the Middle East. Visit the one on 100ft road in Ashok Nagar and enjoy a first class vegetarian meal of Idlis and Vada, pulao and vegetable biryani. Delicious ice creams and Classic filter coffee is available as dessert.
5.
Masaledaar
This quaint little restaurant in Egmore, serves a large variety of North Indian vegetarian dishes. It is quite popular for its large selection of speciality papads and khichdi, and they regularly have unique weekend specials. The hotel is quite small, but the food is served in large helpings and is of superb quality. Make sure to try out their paneer tikka.
6.
Cream Centre
This restaurant in Nungambakkam, serves a variety of unique dishes that are not found anywhere else. The Vibrant atmosphere makes it perfect for both family meals and formal meetings, and you can enjoy a variety of dishes from Indian, Italian or Mexican cuisine. Try out their tangy Chola Batura, and Indo-Mexican tacos. Polish off your meal with a delicious Sizzling Brownie Sundae.
7.
Delhi Highway
A great place for a taste Delhi in Chennai, This recently opened hotel in Nungambakkam, serves the best northern style street food in the south. The ever-present mob of customers is indicative of this restaurant’s popularity, and the heavenly aroma wafting from the place makes your mouth water. If you’re missing Delhi, come down here and have a plate or two of Chole Bhature or Vada pav to whet your appetite.
8.
Pind
Pind in Velachery is the go-to place for authentic Punjabi cuisine if you’re in the neighbourhood. The décor and architecture are reminiscent of a traditional roadside Dhaba, and they serve extra-large helpings of fine North Indian food as fast as possible. Make sure to taste the Vegetable sheekh kebab and the Malai paneer tikka.
9.
New Yorker
The New Yorker on 3rd Street in Wallace garden is a great place to try out Mexican, Indian and Italian dishes with a unique twist. Built like a New York City bistro the atmosphere is crisp and the service is great. The place is quite famous for their amazing milkshakes made from Oreos, Kit-Kat and the exquisite Ferrero Rocher chocolate.
10.
Kaidi Kitchen
If you are looking for a different, unique dining experience, it doesn’t get any more bizarre than The Kaidi Kitchen in Mylapore. As you enter the Jail themed restaurant you are greeted by staff dressed like prisoners who accompany you to the cages in which you sit and enjoy your meal. Choose from a wide selection of Oriental, Lebanese, Mexican and Italian vegetarian dishes that are freshly prepared. Try out the vegetarian steak and Rajasthani kofta.
11.
Jalpaan
Jalpaan serves some of the best North Indian and Italian vegetarian cuisines in Chennai. The hotel has an active vibe and is a great place for large gatherings. Try out their daily special lunch combinations. After the meal, you are given a delicate “Jalpaan” which the hotel is famous for.
12.
Flower Drum
The Flower Drum Restaurant on the Pantheon Road in Egmore serves exclusively Chinese food. The oriental décor and music give the place a vibe reminiscent of Hong Kong’s street food stalls. Try out the various vegetable stir fry dishes with their special Chinese sauces
13.
Mahamudra
This hotel sits on Luz Church Road in Mylapore and also doubles as a boutique for Local arts and handicrafts. With outdoor seating to enjoy the evening lights, you can order from their large selection of speciality dosas served with delicious chutneys.
14.
Eden
The Eden in Besant Nagar, serves an eccentric array of speciality vegetarian dishes. Primarily influenced by North Indian cooking, some of the newer dishes include Drumstick crepes, Vegetable Lasagna, Avocado rolls and vegetable dumplings in a bowl of spaghetti.
15.
Krishnavillasam
This traditional restaurant on Haddows road, is famous for preparing dishes from recipes passed down the family for many generations. A look at the menu shows a carefully planned collection of historic South Indian dishes that can only be found here.
16.
Little Italy
This eatery in Nungambakkam serves the best of vegetarian Italian cuisine. Enjoy the best vegetarian pizzas and pasta while sitting outdoors under the trees for a spectacular dining experience. Try their tomato Lasagna and Veg Pizza margarita.
17.
Novelty Tea House
This tiny Café and restaurant in Sowcarpet, are famous for their vegetarian snacks and flavoured dosas. Try out the Pav Bhaji for snacks and Pudina dosa for dinner. End the meal with a tumbler of original Chennai filter coffee.
18.
Dario’s
Dario’s Restaurant is located on the Kasturi Rangan Road in Teynampet. The décor and ambience are reminiscent of old Sicilian pizzerias and the outdoor seating surrounded by greenery enhance this experience. Try out their sumptuous Stromboli Pizza and Tiramisu for dessert.
19.
Rajdhani
The Rajdhani serves the best of Rajasthani and Gujarati vegetarian dishes. Situated in the Express avenues mall on Whites Road, they serve an absolutely massive thali filled with veggies, Chole, Pulkha, Pulao, dal and Papads accompanied by a dessert.
20.
Royal Vega
This Upper-class hotel in the ITC Grand Chola is quite simply put, on an entirely different level. The dishes from Northern and Mughlai cuisines are all quite expensive and prepared with the best ingredients by the best chefs and are totally worth the price tag. The luxury and opulence when you enter the hotel and are greeted by the traditional Aarthi is an amazing experience. Try out the Rotis, Stuffed vegetables and Kachoris
