Things to Do
Our Favorites
Food to Try
No trip to Chennai is complete without trying these classics: • Dosa – Crispy rice crepe served with sambar and coconut chutney. • Idli – Soft, steamed rice cakes (best enjoyed dunked in sambar). • Medu Vada – Golden, crispy lentil fritters with a fluffy center. • Sambar & Chutneys – The heart of every South Indian meal. • Pongal – Comforting, savory rice and lentil dish. • Filter Coffee – Strong, frothy, and served in a traditional steel tumbler. And for a more local, on-the-go experience: • Kothu Parotta – Chopped flatbread tossed with spices on a hot griddle. • Sundal – Lightly spiced chickpeas, often sold near the beach. • Bajji – Crispy vegetable fritters, perfect as an evening snack. Simple, comforting, and full of flavor — this is the true taste of Chennai. 💛✨
Restaurants & Cafes
Check out some of our favorites!
Ratna Cafe- Famous for its legendary sambar-soaked idlis. A true Chennai staple Sangeetha Veg Restaurant- Reliable, classic and perfect for first-timers wanting authentic flavors Wild Garden Cafe (Amethyst) - Chennai’s iconic garden café tucked in a colonial-era estate with indoor and outdoor seating, great coffee, snacks, and a relaxed vibe. Una Villa - charming restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and inviting atmosphere. With thoughtfully curated interiors and a warm, intimate setting, it’s the perfect spot to gather over delicious food and great conversation. Les Amis - A must-visit for dessert lovers! Les Amis is one of Chennai’s most talked-about gelato and ice cream spots, known for its artisanal gelatos, sorbets, waffles, pastries, and specialty coffees — along with classic favorites like rich Belgian chocolate and seasonal fruit flavors. Manjal - Manjal (which means “turmeric” in Tamil) is a beloved Chennai restaurant known for celebrating authentic South Indian flavors in a warm, elegant setting. Inspired by traditional recipes and local ingredients, the menu highlights classic Tamil dishes with rich spices and comforting flavors. It’s a wonderful spot to experience regional cuisine in a refined yet welcoming atmosphere — perfect for guests wanting a true taste of Chennai. 💛✨
Tourist Attractions
Check out these spots in Chennai!
Marina Beach - One of the longest urban beaches in the world. Go in the early morning or at sunset for ocean views, local snacks, and vibrant energy. East Coast Road (ECR) - The East Coast Road (ECR) is one of the most scenic drives in South India, stretching along the Bay of Bengal from Chennai toward Mahabalipuram and beyond. Think ocean views, beachside cafés, boutique resorts, and relaxed coastal vibes. It’s the perfect half-day or sunset drive for first-time visitors. Along ECR, you can stop at: • DakshinaChitra – A cultural heritage village showcasing South Indian traditions • Beach resorts and cafés for lunch by the sea • Scenic photo spots with endless coastal backdrops If you have extra time, a drive down ECR is a beautiful way to experience Tamil Nadu’s coastal charm. 🌴✨ Phoenix Marketcity - One of Chennai’s largest and most popular lifestyle destinations, Phoenix Marketcity is perfect for shopping, dining, and entertainment. From international brands and local boutiques to a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and a movie theater, it’s a fun place to explore between events or on a free afternoon. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, fashion, sweets, or just a cool indoor hangout, Phoenix Marketcity has something for everyone. 💛✨ T Nagar - The ultimate Chennai shopping experience — gold jewelry stores, silk sarees, and vibrant local energy. Perfect for souvenir hunting.
Quick Day Trips
Check out these spots if you have more downtime!
Mahabalipuram - A UNESCO World Heritage site known for ancient rock-cut temples and seaside monuments. It’s the perfect coastal escape with history, architecture, and incredible ocean views — ideal for first-time visitors wanting to explore beyond the city. Kanchipuram - Known as the City of Thousand Temples, Kanchipuram is one of South India’s most sacred towns and a must-see for culture lovers. Kanchipuram offers a deep dive into Tamil spirituality, architecture, and tradition. It’s peaceful, historic, and incredibly meaningful — especially for those wanting to experience the soul of South India beyond the city. 💛✨ Pondicherry - About three hours from Chennai along the scenic East Coast Road, Pondicherry is a perfect little getaway if you’re turning our wedding trip into a mini vacation. With its charming French colonial architecture, colorful streets, cozy cafés, and relaxed beachside vibe, it feels like a completely different world from the bustle of the city. You can take a sunrise walk along the Promenade, explore the quaint lanes of the French Quarter, enjoy incredible French and South Indian fusion cuisine, shop at local boutiques, or visit Auroville and see the iconic Matrimandir. It’s peaceful, romantic, and such a special coastal escape if you have the time to explore.
