Attention foodies in Chennai! This city has more to offer than just Chicken 65. And you’re about to discover just that. As a young student or entrepreneur heading to this city where start-up culture meets ancient traditions, you should be ready for the whirlwind of flavors that Chennai has to offer. The city’s diverse and vibrant culture is one that you can spot in its cuisines as well. So, if you’re new to the city and dying to know which street foods in Chennai you definitely need to try, you’re in the right place. Here’s your guide to the top dishes that you absolutely need to experience at least once on Chennai’s streets. And don’t worry, a lot of these are also available at night time to satisfy late hunger pangs.
- Idli
If you think about South Indian cuisine in general, Idli is probably the first thing that comes to mind, and with good reason. You’ll definitely be able to find Idli being sold at every corner shop, along with the traditional accompaniments of sambar and coconut chutney. But if you want to try the fluffiest and most fresh Idlis in Chennai, you should head to Murugan Idli Shop which is one of the most famous joints in the cities serving this staple. Starting from the very affordable price of INR 50 per plate, you’ll definitely find yourself turning to Idlis as a quick and healthy breakfast option on your way to college or work.
- Atho
If you’re looking for a taste of Burma in the heart of Chennai, you need to try Atho – a Burmese noodle dish served with vegetables. It’s one of the most unique street foods that the city has to offer and a prime example of Chennai’s multicultural cuisine. Head to Beach Road or Burma Bazaar where you’re sure to find a line of stalls serving Atho or check out Atho Man, a popular chain that serves this local delight. The cost of this street food is approximately INR 200 for two people, making it a total steal and a sensation for your taste buds.
- Uthappam
The dosa’s slightly less famous cousin, uthappams have gained the reputation of being savory pancakes. But they’re actually a whole lot more. Thick, fluffy, and stuffed with vegetables or masalas, these can multitask as breakfast food or a snack in the middle of a busy day. In fact, this is such a local treasure that Seena Bhai Tiffin Centre in Sowcarpet has been selling ghee uthappam as one of their only dishes for over thirty years. People from all over the city come to indulge in this street food, so you just know you have to try it too. A plate will set you back only by INR 50 and will definitely leave you hungering for more.
- Puttu
Want easy and healthy breakfast recipes? Why not when you have an option like Puttu at hand. Made with rice and topped with coconut, with either a sweet or savory filling, this is one of the most popular dishes that you can find in any corner of Chennai. Of course, like any good delicacy, there’s plenty of dispute about whether Puttu originated in Tamil Nadu or Kerala, or even Sri Lanka, but the fact of the matter is that the Puttu you’ll get from the local vendors in Chennai is unparalleled. Try it out from Maplai or Nair Mess to see for yourself!
- Sundal
Move over hummus and chana masala. There’s a new chickpea king in town and its name is Sundal. One of the most popular street foods in Chennai, it’s made from boiled chickpeas, onions, and shredded coconuts. You just can’t miss out on this one, especially if you’re spending an evening chilling on Marina Beach or if you’re looking for something to munch on when the hunger pangs hit. Pick up a plate of Sundal for just INR 30 from Mathsya, or Royal Sandwich and you’ll know just what we’re talking about. Read more about the Best Catering services near me
If you’re moving to Chennai, you’ll soon find these street foods becoming a part and parcel of your life. And if you’re looking for a place to try them all or if you want to go on your very own food walk, Sowcarpet is definitely the area to try. So, do your taste buds a favor and make sure you check out these street foods and all the other culinary delights that Chennai has to offer.
