Here we are in December, the time for letting routines relax a bit to make room for merry making. The combination of gorgeous weather, relatives and friends visiting from all over the world, and the end of the year looming over us results in lots of get togethers and going out for meals. Would you say that you learn about hot new eateries mainly though word of mouth? I certainly would, and that’s one aspect I always return to when I explain why I enjoy living here—you’ll learn a lot more through the advice of your friends rather than a Google search. So as your friend, let me tell you about five excellent standalone restaurants that are perfect for those long lingering lunches and decadent dinners that this season is all about!
Text: PRIYANKA ACHARYA
That Mallu Joint
If you love Mallu cuisine, look no further. But if you have a lot to say over lunch, don’t go here, because you’ll be too busy eating to talk! Centrally located in T Nagar, That Mallu Joint offers Kerala and South Indian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood, all at incredibly reasonable prices. They have perfected the appam, soft and fluffy in the centre and thin and lacy around the circumference. The nethili (anchovy) fry is as addictive as potato chips, with its bright masala and audible crispness. And whatever you do, do not leave without tasting their coconut ice cream! Bursting with flavour, it’s the ideal refreshing end note to the meal. I strongly suggest booking a table in advance because people know a good deal when they see one, making this one of the most sought after lunch spots in town.
That Mallu Joint: 2nd floor, 159/72, Gopathi Narayanaswami Chetty Rd, Parthasarathi Puram, T. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017.
Call: +91 95516 64958
Meal for two: Rs 500
