Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Tamil Nadu, a state renowned for its rich culture and heritage, is also home to a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes. From flavourful vegetarian options to the most famous food in Tamil Nadu non-veg, this region has it all. Whether you’re a foodie or a traveller, here’s a list of the best food in Tamil Nadu that you absolutely must try. Centuries of tradition and local ingredients influence the vibrant food culture, making every meal a celebration of flavours. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey through Tamil Nadu’s exquisite cuisine!
10 Best Food In Tamil Nadu
Discover the 15 best food in Tamil Nadu, where traditional flavours meet culinary excellence. From savoury dishes to delicious sweets, each bite tells a story.
1. Chettinad Chicken
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chettinad Chicken is perhaps the most popular food in Tamil Nadu, that non-veg lovers rave about. This dish hails from the Chettinad region and is known for its intense flavours, created by a variety of freshly ground spices. Cooked with roasted coconut, this fiery chicken curry is best eaten with steaming rice or parotta.
Prepared With: Roasted coconut and freshly ground spices
Best Eaten With: Steamed rice or parotta
Popular Accompaniment: Pickled onions and curd
Serving Style: Hot, with a side of chutneys
2. Dosa
Photo: SwatiGupta1986 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A universally loved dish, Dosa is one of the best food in Tamil Nadu. This crispy pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter is a staple breakfast item across South India. It’s best enjoyed with coconut chutney and tangy sambar, giving your palate a burst of flavour.
Prepared With: Local rice varieties
Best Eaten With: Onion chutney or groundnut chutney
Popular Accompaniment: Coconut chutney and tangy sambar
Serving Style: Served in a banana leaf
3. Mutton Biryani
Photo: Pxhere / Image For Representation Only
One of the famous foods in Tamil Nadu non-veg, Mutton Biryani is a fragrant, flavourful rice dish cooked with tender mutton and aromatic spices. The biryani in Tamil Nadu differs from the ones in North India, with more emphasis on subtle flavours from the slow-cooked meat.
Cooked In: Traditional copper pots
Best Eaten With: Onion raita
Popular Accompaniment: Boiled eggs
Serving Style: Served in an earthen pot
4. Idiyappam With Chicken Stew
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A delicate, soft dish, Idiyappam, also known as string hoppers, is a classic breakfast or dinner option in Tamil Nadu. These steamed rice noodles are light and often paired with rich, creamy chicken stew. The combination is both comforting and filling. This traditional dish captures the essence of Tamil Nadu’s culinary heritage, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite.
Prepared With: Steamed rice noodles
Best Eaten With: Chicken stew
Popular Accompaniment: Coconut milk
Serving Style: Served on a banana leaf with gravy on the side
5. Kothu Parotta
Photo: Nundhaa / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most iconic street foods in Tamil Nadu, Kothu Parotta is a shredded flatbread stir-fried with eggs, vegetables, and meat (usually chicken or mutton). It’s a burst of flavours and textures, making it one of the famous foods in Tamil Nadu that non-veg enthusiasts should not miss.
Prepared With: Stir-fried with a variety of spices
Best Eaten With: Salna (spicy curry)
Popular Accompaniment: Onion raita
Serving Style: Hot and spicy, garnished with curry leaves
6. Pongal
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A popular breakfast dish, Pongal is a comforting rice and lentil dish, flavoured with cumin seeds, pepper, and ghee. During the Pongal festival, people particularly love to have Pongal and often pair it with coconut chutney and sambar. This wholesome meal is not only nutritious but also embodies the warmth of Tamil Nadu’s hospitality. The rich aroma and creamy texture make Pongal a favourite among locals, often enjoyed as a hearty start to the day or a delightful comfort food at any time.
Prepared With: Cooked with pure ghee and peppercorns
Best Eaten With: Coconut chutney
Popular Accompaniment: Sambar
Serving Style: Piping hot, served in a banana leaf
7. Fish Curry
Photo: Pxhere / Image For Representation Only
For seafood lovers, Tamil Nadu’s coastal regions offer a variety of fish curries. This tangy, spicy dish is a favourite among locals. Tamarind is often used to give it a distinct sourness, which pairs beautifully with steamed rice. Each region has its own unique twist on the recipe, showcasing the diversity of flavours and cooking techniques found along the coast.
Prepared With: Tamarind-based gravy
Best Eaten With: Steamed rice
Popular Accompaniment: Fried fish
Serving Style: Served in a clay pot
8. Bun Parotta
Photo: P Jeganathan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A unique twist to the traditional parotta, the Bun Parotta is a fluffy, thick version of the usual flatbread. It’s best paired with spicy chicken curry or salna and is a must-try street food. This delightful dish has gained popularity among locals and visitors alike for its soft texture and rich flavour, making it a favourite. Often enjoyed as a quick snack or a hearty meal, Bun Parotta truly reflects the vibrant street food culture of Tamil Nadu.
Prepared With: Fluffy, soft texture
Best Eaten With: Chicken curry
Popular Accompaniment: Salna
Serving Style: Served hot with gravy
9. Prawn Masala
Photo: Vijinagi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Seafood lovers should not miss Prawn Masala, one of the famous foods in Tamil Nadu non-veg dishes. Cooked with a medley of spices, this dish has a perfect balance of heat and flavour, making it a seafood lover’s delight. The prawns are typically marinated to enhance their taste, then simmered in a rich, aromatic gravy that pairs beautifully with rice or naan.
Prepared With: Fresh prawns, sautéed in coconut oil
Best Eaten With: Steamed rice
Popular Accompaniment: Curd rice
Serving Style: Hot, with lemon slices on the side
10. Uttapam
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Uttapam is a thicker version of the dosa but has vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and chilies embedded in the batter. This dish is flavourful and hearty, often enjoyed as a filling breakfast option. Topped with a sprinkle of fresh coriander, Uttapam is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is typically served with coconut chutney and sambar, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal to start your day.
Prepared With: Embedded vegetables in the batter
Best Eaten With: Tomato chutney
Popular Accompaniment: Coconut chutney and sambar
Serving Style: Served hot, on a banana leaf
Tamil Nadu’s rich culinary heritage offers a range of dishes that will satisfy every palate. From the fiery Chettinad Chicken to the comforting Pongal, each dish reflects the state’s unique culture and diverse flavours. Exploring the local cuisine is a journey through history, tradition, and hospitality, showcasing the creativity of Tamil Nadu’s chefs. The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and regional specialities creates unforgettable dining experiences. For an unforgettable culinary adventure, book your tour with TripXL and find the best food in Tamil Nadu.
Cover Photo: Pxhere / Image For Representation Only
