Where to Stay & Eat in Chennai

Hotels, restaurants, and local food across all budgets. Trip Planning dining and accommodation guide.

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Where to Stay

Best Neighborhoods

T. Nagar

A bustling shopping district with a wide range of hotels and restaurants. It's a good option for those who want to be in the heart of the action, but it can be crowded.

Best For: Shoppers and foodies

Nungambakkam

A posh residential area with upscale hotels, restaurants, and boutiques. It's a good option for those who want a more relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere.

Best For: Luxury travelers

Egmore

A central location with a mix of budget and mid-range hotels. Close to the railway station and some of the city's attractions. Can be noisy.

Best For: Budget travelers and those arriving by train

Accommodation Options

Budget

$

₹500-800/night

Backpackers Inn

Egmore

Clean and basic accommodation with dorm rooms and private rooms. It's a good option for budget travelers.

₹500-800/night

Zostel Chennai

Besant Nagar

Offers dorm rooms and private rooms with a social atmosphere. Close to Elliot's Beach.

₹600-900/night

Mid-Range

$$

₹3000-5000/night

The Residency

T. Nagar

Comfortable rooms and good service. It is located in a central shopping district.

₹3000-5000/night

Hotel Chennai Gate

Egmore

Offers well-appointed rooms and a restaurant. Conveniently located near the railway station.

₹2500-4500/night

Luxury

$$$

₹8000+/night

Taj Coromandel

Nungambakkam

Elegant hotel with luxurious rooms, multiple restaurants, and a spa. Offers excellent service and amenities.

₹8000+/night

The Leela Palace Chennai

MRC Nagar

Stunning beachfront property with opulent rooms, fine dining restaurants, and a world-class spa. It offers a luxurious experience.

₹10000+/night

Where to Eat

Must-Try Dishes

Idli and Sambar
Idli and Sambar

Soft, steamed rice cakes served with lentil soup and chutney (try at Murugan Idli Shop).

Dosa
Dosa

Crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with potatoes or other fillings (try at Saravana Bhavan).

Chettinad Chicken
Chettinad Chicken

Spicy chicken curry with a blend of aromatic spices (try at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant).

Filter Coffee
Filter Coffee

Strong and aromatic coffee served in a traditional dabarah set (try at Madras Coffee House).

Seafood
Seafood

Fresh seafood dishes prepared with local spices (try at The Marina).

Parotta
Parotta

Flaky layered flatbread served with gravy or curry (try at local street food stalls).

Best Restaurants

Saravana Bhavan

Saravana Bhavan

₹₹

South Indian Vegetarian

Various locations

A popular chain restaurant serving authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. Expect long queues during peak hours.

₹500-800 for two

Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant

₹₹

Chettinad

Various locations

Serves spicy and flavorful Chettinad cuisine. A must-try for non-vegetarians.

₹600-900 for two

Murugan Idli Shop

Murugan Idli Shop

South Indian Vegetarian

Various locations

A popular spot for idlis and other South Indian snacks. A good option for a quick and affordable meal.

₹300-500 for two

The Marina

The Marina

₹₹₹

Seafood

Egmore

Offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes prepared with local spices. A good option for a special occasion.

₹1200-1800 for two

Rayar's Mess

Rayar's Mess

₹₹

South Indian

Mylapore

A no-frills eatery serving authentic South Indian food. Popular with locals.

₹400-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Marina Beach

Marina Beach

Budget: ₹50-150 per person

Tips: Be careful of hygiene and choose stalls that look clean. Visit in the evening for the best atmosphere.

T. Nagar

T. Nagar

Budget: ₹80-200 per person

Tips: Bargain for the best prices. Try the local snacks and sweets.

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