Gone are the days when idli, dosa, sambar, and vada were the dishes that used to restrict the imagination of a foodie on hearing the name, Chennai. Owing much of the credit to the highly urbanized society, metropolitan culture, thriving nightlife, and bustling cafes, one wouldn’t hesitate to agree that the capital city of Tamil Nadu today, is nothing like it used to be. And proving just that, here are the 15 best cafes in Chennai, that will take your imagination beyond the massive Marina Beach, and the southern superstar Rajinikanth.
15 Best Cafes in Chennai for the Lovers of Food
There are infinite numbers of good cafes in Chennai which you must visit at least once in 2023. Check out the below list of the best cafes in Chennai.
1. Higginbotham’s Writer’s Café
Experience an amazing ambience where you enjoy a lavish meal best suited for literature enthusiasts. Café or a restaurant you get to relish your favourite delicacies out here along with a variety of books which will surely charm your mind. Food served here is born out of western taste which is being appreciated by a lot of people.
Location: #127, Peters Rd, Gopalapuram, Chennai
Timings: 9:00 am to 10:30 pm
Average meals for two: Starts from INR 900 (tax included)
Zomato ratings: 4.4/5
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2. The 90’s Café
Come and enjoy the 90’s time with your partner and family members filled with memorable moments. Although, the 90’s Café is in a small space the menu here will surprise you. Cherish and capture sweet memories.
Location: AB 137, 4th Avenue, Shanti Colony, Anna Nagar East
Timings: 12:30 pm to 11:00 pm
Average meals for two: Starts from INR 600 (tax included)
Zomato ratings: 4/5
3. Kipling Café
Kipling Café offers its guests a picture-perfect outdoor setting full of romanticism. You are welcomed with a beautiful view of greenery and a spectacular beach. Enjoy some nice cocktails and the café is known for creating a buzz among people. This cafe is also surrounded by some of the best romantic places in Chennai.
Location: 16, L Jey Avenue, East Coast Road, Akkarai
Timings: 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Average meals for two: Starts from INR 2400 (tax included)
Zomato ratings: 4.1/5
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4. Azuri Bay
If you are wanting to spend some quality time with your spouse then Azuri Bay is a sure shot win for you. Sitting on a rooftop and tasting some of the south Indian and north Indian dishes. You must not forget to try seafood which is the most enjoyed food in Azuri Bay.
Location: 13, 1st Crescent Road, Gandhinagar, Adyar
Timings: 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm; 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Average meals for two: Starts from INR 1000 (tax included)
Zomato ratings: 4.2/5
5. Café Mercara Express
Want to enjoy coffee? Then this is must visit place for you. Name a coffee and you get it. This café has a variability of coffee served in beautiful clay pots. Coffee will be accompanied by some quick bites which you will surely relish. Madras Mulligatawny, Fried chicken are some of their signature dishes.
Location: ITC Grand Chola, 63, Mount Road, Guindy
Timings: 24 hours
Average meals for two: Starts from INR 2000 (tax included)
Zomato ratings: 4.2/5
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6. Tryst Cafe
Embrace the smell of fresh air and the sweet aroma of coffee as you settle down in the calm outdoor seating of the one and only Tryst Cafe which is lined along the shoreline with other best beach restaurants in Chennai. An idea that was leavened by the thought of offering freshly baked French bread now stands as one of the best cafes in Chennai that offers the best Continental, Mexican, and Italian cuisines in the city.
Location: 4/359, Gatsby Village, East Coast Road, Neelankarai, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 am to 10 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 900 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 3.9/5
Reviews | Website
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7. Wild Garden Café, Amethyst
It may not be one of the new cafes in Chennai, but every time one visits the Wild Garden Cafe, the hospitality of the Amethyst makes it feel like it’s the first visit. The first thing that you’ll notice about this cafe is its attractive tiled flooring. Striking a perfect balance between the natural surroundings and the romantic lights, this cafe offers authentic flavours of Italian cuisine.
Location: Whites Road, Next To Corporation Bank, Royapettah, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 am to 11:30 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 1,400 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 4.1/5
Reviews | Website
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8. The English Tearoom
Built within the premises of an art gallery, this cafe is artsier than one would expect it to be and therefore they have earned their place as one of the best cafes in Chennai. Flaunting its rustic charm along with its peaceful environs, the quaint little English Tearoom is indeed one of the most romantic cafes in Chennai to spend some quality time with your loved ones. And for the single souls, the collection of books will be ever-ready to give you company at this cafe!
Location: 17, Kasturi Ranga Road, Alwarpet, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 11 am to 11 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 900 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 4/5
Reviews | Website
9. The Brew Room
Leaving all the good cafes in Chennai behind, the Brew Room holds the capability of giving the leading romantic restaurants in Chennai a run for their money. Surrounding the visitors with refreshing greenery around, this cafe serves one of the finest lamb burgers in the entire city. Striking a perfect balance between the ambience and the interior decor, one sight is all it takes for the Brew Room to win your heart.
Location: The Savera Hotel, 146, RK Salai, Mylapore, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 8 am to 11 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 1,100 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 4.3/5
Reviews | Website
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10. Chamier’s Café
From the seating to the ambience, and from the continental food to the decor, none of the best cafes in Chennai surpass the charm of Chamier’s Café. Oozing out luxury and comfort at its best, Chamier’s Café is a great place to spend some laid-back time all by yourself, any day. This cafe is also surrounded by some of the best beaches in Chennai.
Location: 106, Chamiers Road, Opposite Adyar Park Gate, RA Puram, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 8 am to 11:30 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 1,000 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 4.2/5
Reviews | Website
11. That Madras Place
Ever tried crispy shrimp popcorns? If not, then “That Madras Cafe” is exactly the place you should be heading to. Being one of the coziest and cute little cafes in Chennai, this chic, creative, and vibrant cafe serve the best of European delights and delicious desserts.
Location: 34/29, 2nd Main Road, Kasturibai Nagar, Adyar, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 12 am to 9:30 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 800 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 4.2/5
Reviews
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12. Lloyds Tea House
Specializing in Italian, European, and Asian cuisines, Lloyds Tea House is undoubtedly one of the prettiest and best cafes in Chennai. While the name itself reflects the influence of the British flavours, treat your taste buds to the best of pesto pasta, chicken club sandwiches, and high teas.
Location: 179, Lloyds Road, Gopalapuram, Chennai
Timings: Weekdays – 11 am to 11 pm; Weekends: 8 am to 11 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 1,000 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 4.2/5
Reviews
13. House #22 Café
Set within a colonial mansion that dates back to the late 19th century, House #22 Cafe is not only one of the top cafes in Chennai but also is one of the romantic cafes for couples. From a variety of bruschettas to the delicious pesto fish, try your hands at the delectable fusion of Indian and British cuisines.
Location: 1/38, North Parade Road, Near Kathipara Junction, St. Thomas Mount, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 11 am to 11 pm
Average meal for two: Starts from INR 1,000 (tax excluded)
Zomato ratings: 3.6/5
Reviews | Website
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14. Ciclo Café
Treating the customers to Italian and American delicacies, Ciclo Cafe is probably the only cafe dedicated to cyclists. Built within an independent house, it is indeed one of the best cafes in Chennai that is located away from the hustle and bustle of the city clutter. Also, do not miss out on the Pizza Verdure which is a must-try at Ciclo.
Location: 47, Gandhi Mandapam Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai
Timings: Monday to Saturday – 11 am to 11 pm; Sunday – 8 am to 11 pm
Average Meal For Two: Starts from INR 1,100 (tax excluded)
Zomato Ratings: 4.2/5
Reviews | Website
15. Sandy’s Chocolate Laboratory
Are you seeking a cafe shop in Chennai where you can gorge upon chocolate delicacies? If yes, then Sandy’s Chocolate Laboratory is your best bet. Boasting modern, yet minimalist decors, this cafe makes a perfect base for friends and couples. While visiting here, make sure to try Tiny Chocolate Cake and Sandy’s Signature Hot Chocolate that is popular among visitors. Be it chocolates, cakes, waffles, pastries, or pancakes, this place excels in all.
Location: 2 16/1 WALLACE GARDEN Next To Subway, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600006
Timings: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm
Average Meal for two: INR 1,400
Zomato ratings: 4.5/5
Reviews | Website
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16. This Way In
If you are seeking an affordably-priced cafe where the food as well as ambiance if up to the mark, This Way In is one of the best options. Here, you will find all the snacks and starters that are popular among Indians including pizza, cheesy fries, nachos, pasta, burger, and more. To complete your meals, there are a wide range of lip-macking mocktails and shakes. Especially for animal lovers, this place is a haven as the cafe has 3 tamed dogs and some birds. However, there is also a pet-free zone for the ones who are not comfortable with animals. From refreshing ambiance to delectable food to entertainment options, the cafe has got everything to uplift your experience.
Location: 5/9, Deena Dayalu St, Pondy Bazaar, Parthasarathi Puram, T. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017
Timings: 12:00 pm to 11: 00 pm
Average Meal for two: INR 600
Zomato ratings: 4.2/5
Reviews | Website
17. Cafe de Paris
Touted among the best cafes for couples in Chennai, Cafe de Paris has got everything to impress you. Offering visitors indoor as well as outdoor seating, this cafe features a soul-soothing ambiance. While visiting here, you can satiate your taste buds with Continental, American, and Italian delicacies. Furthermore, the cafe also specialises in desserts and bakery items.
Location: 24, Cenotaph Rd, Teynampet, garden section, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600018
Timings: 12:00 pm tp 10:00 pm
Average Meal for two: INR 900
Zomato ratings: 4.5/5
Reviews | Website
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Falling in love already? Well, let your tummy do the talking while you relish all the delicious cuisines and fusion flavours at these best cafes in Chennai, on your next trip to this bustling city. Plan a trip to Chennai immediately and for when you’re back, do not forget to share your experiences with us in the comments below.
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Frequently Asked Questions Related To Best Cafes In Chennai
Is it safe to visit cafes in Chennai amidst the ongoing pandemic?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to visit these places as the place has a relatively low number of cases. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure. It is safer to undertake solo travel or with a small group of people to somewhere that is not overly crowded at the moment.
Which is the most popular food in Chennai?
Chennai is a top food destination and has a lot more to offer than idli and dosa. Some of the popular food in Chennai are: 1. Onion Tomato Uttapam 2. Milagaai Bajji or Chilli Bhajji 3. Poori with Chana masala 4. Kothu Parotta
Which sweet is famous in Chennai?
Some of the popular sweets in Chennai are mothipak, jalebi, kulfi and coconut burfi. You can find all these desserts in every nook and corner of the city.
Which are the best street food places in Chennai?
The most popular street food places in Chennai are Hemanth Chats, Mak N Bhajji Shop, Ram Prasad's Jalebi stall and Sri Karpagambal Kapali Sweet Stall.
Which are the best romantic cafe in Chennai?
Wild Garden Café, The English Tearoom and The Brew Room offers romantic vibe and are some of the best romantic cafes in Chennai.
Which are the popular writers cafe in Chennai?
Some ideal cafes for a writer in Chennai are: 1. Amethyst Café 2. Writer’s Café 3. L’amandier 4. The Brew Room
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