Christmas is a time for joy, feasting, and delighting in the aromatic delicacies that bring family and friends together. In Chennai, a city known for its richness of cultures and culinary expertise, Christmas dinner is quite an elaborate affair as it combines traditional South Indian flavors with global festive influences. For those exploring options beyond Chennai, a festive Christmas dinner in Bangalore also offers a delightful experience. For connoisseurs looking for a luxurious buffet or more intimate family dinners, this city has many to offer for every discerning taste.
Regardless of whether you crave the expanse of Christmas feasts, feel like biting into something vegetarian-friendly, or something as easy as kid-friendly family dinners, Chennai has its seasonal offering this time around. The blog will guide you through the best restaurants, festive buffets, traditional menus, and tips for planning a memorable Christmas dinner in Chennai.
Christmas Dinner in Chennai: List of Best 10 Restaurants
Chennai is a city that loves its food, and at Christmas, it can really jazz up with several culinary offerings. Whichever your soul desires may be – whether a luxurious buffet, the coziness of a café experience, or something themed over dinner, Chennai has everything to make your Christmas dinner truly special. Here are the top 10 restaurants in Chennai that will offer you unique and festive dining experiences:
|
|
Address |
Rating |
Contact Number |
Timings |
Unique Items |
Service Options |
| Pumpkin Tales |
37/20, First Floor, Bheemanna Garden St |
4.6 |
N/A |
7:00 AM–10:30 PM |
Baked goods, Global-inspired dishes |
|
| Six ‘O’ One |
The Park, 601, Anna Salai |
4.8 |
N/A |
Open 24 hours |
Live cooking stations, Global cuisine |
Dine-in |
| Heights Rooftop Restaurant |
No. 86, Manickam Lane, Anna Salai |
4.7 |
N/A |
6:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Rooftop views, Multi-cuisine menu |
Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
|
| The Waterfall Restaurant |
18, LV Prasad Rd |
4.1 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Waterfall-themed ambiance, Mixed cuisine |
Dine-in |
| Vasco’s |
124/1, J.N. Salai |
4.2 |
N/A |
6:30 AM–11:00 PM |
Chic ambiance, Global cuisine |
Dine-in |
| Copper Chimney |
73, Cathedral Rd |
4.3 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
North Indian specialties, Kebabs |
|
| Fika |
13, Second Main Rd |
4.1 |
N/A |
N/A |
European fare, Stylish cafe |
Dine-in |
| Haunted Restaurant |
36, Dr. Radha Krishnan Salai |
4.7 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Haunted house theme, Buffet menu |
Dine-in, Delivery |
| The Living Room |
3rd Floor, New No-73, Chennai |
4.5 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Outdoor seating, Trendy bar & lounge |
Dine-in |
| The Fisherman’s Wharf |
Thoraipakkam, Tamil Nadu |
4.5 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Seafood specialties, Coastal decor |
Dine-in, Drive-through, Delivery
|
Pumpkin Tales
- Address: 37/20, First Floor, Bheemanna Garden St
- Rating: ⭐ 4.6
- Timings: 🕒 7:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Unique Items: Baked goods, Global-inspired dishes.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway.
Why Visit?
Pumpkin Tales is known for its artisanal baked goods and global-inspired menu. This is a perfect spot for those looking for a relaxed and wholesome Christmas dinner. Their seasonal menu often includes festive delights like spiced cakes and roasted meats.
Six ‘O’ One
- Address: The Park, 601, Anna Salai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.8
- Timings: Open 24 Hours
- Unique Items: Live cooking stations, Global cuisine.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
This fine-dining restaurant offers an elaborate Christmas buffet with live cooking stations featuring global cuisines. From roasts and grills to decadent desserts, Six ‘O’ One delivers a luxurious festive dining experience.
Heights Rooftop Restaurant
- Address: No. 86, Manickam Lane, Anna Salai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.7
- Timings: 🕒 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Rooftop views, Multi-cuisine menu.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery.
Why Visit?
Celebrate Christmas dinner under the stars at this rooftop gem. Heights Rooftop Restaurant is perfect for couples or families looking to enjoy panoramic views of the city while savoring a diverse menu of festive dishes.
The Waterfall Restaurant
- Address: 18, LV Prasad Rd
- Rating: ⭐ 4.1
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Waterfall-themed ambiance, Mixed cuisine.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
Dine amid cascading water features for a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience. This family-friendly restaurant offers a festive menu that includes a mix of Indian and continental dishes.
Vasco’s
- Address: 124/1, J.N. Salai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.2
- Timings: 🕒 6:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Chic ambiance, Global cuisine.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
Vasco’s offers an elegant dining experience with an expansive Christmas spread that includes global delicacies and live cooking stations. Perfect for families and large groups.
Copper Chimney
- Address: 73, Cathedral Rd
- Rating: ⭐ 4.3
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Unique Items: North Indian specialties, Kebabs.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway.
Why Visit?
If you’re in the mood for a Christmas dinner with bold Indian flavors, Copper Chimney is the place to be. Known for its signature kebabs and curries, it’s a must-visit for those craving a North Indian feast.
Fika
- Address: 13, Second Main Rd
- Rating: ⭐ 4.1
- Timings: Varies
- Unique Items: European fare, Stylish café.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
Fika is a stylish café offering a cozy ambiance and an array of European-inspired dishes. This spot is ideal for a casual Christmas dinner with friends, complete with festive desserts and coffee.
Haunted Restaurant
- Address: 36, Dr. Radha Krishnan Salai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.7
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Haunted house theme, Buffet menu.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Delivery.
Why Visit?
For a quirky and fun Christmas dinner, visit the Haunted Restaurant. Its themed interiors and buffet spread to make it a unique dining experience, especially for kids and young adults.
The Living Room
- Address: 3rd Floor, New No-73, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Outdoor seating, Trendy bar & lounge.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
The Living Room combines a trendy lounge vibe with festive dining. Its outdoor seating and curated Christmas menu make it a great spot for celebrating with friends or colleagues.
The Fisherman’s Wharf
- Address: Thoraipakkam, Tamil Nadu
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Seafood specialties, Coastal décor.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Drive-through, Delivery.
Why Visit?
The Fisherman’s Wharf, famous for its coastal charm and fresh seafood, is a sure go-to destination for anyone wanting a traditional seafood feast this Christmas. The warm, festive ambiance adds to its appeal.
These top 10 restaurants in Chennai offer a wide range of dining experiences to ensure that this Christmas has something in store for everybody. From luxurious buffets to rooftop dinners and themed dining, these spots promise to make your Christmas celebration truly memorable. Reserve your table now and enjoy a feast brimming with festive flavors!
Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet for Both Vegetarians and Non-Vegetarians in Chennai
Christmas Eve can be quite rewarding in Chennai, as restaurants and hotels dish out rich buffet spreads catering to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. From authentic South Indian meals to global cuisines, hearty barbecue spreads, and much more, it caters to one and all. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best Christmas Eve dinner buffets for vegetarians and non-vegetarians in Chennai.
Vegetarian Buffets
Vegetarian buffets offer a rich variety of plant-based dishes, from fresh salads to delectable desserts, catering to every palate. Perfect for gatherings, they ensure a guilt-free feast! Here’s a list of 5 restaurants serving lip-smacking vegetarian dishes.
|
|
Address |
Rating |
Contact Number |
Timings |
Unique Items |
Service Options |
| Govindas Pure Veg |
55, Ramasamy Rd, T. Nagar |
4.5 |
N/A |
7:00 AM–10:00 PM |
Authentic South Indian meals |
Dine-in |
| Ashvita Bistro |
11, Bawa Rd, Alwarpet |
4.4 |
N/A |
11:00 AM–11:00 PM |
Continental and vegan options |
|
| The Grand Sweets & Snacks |
Various locations |
4.6 |
N/A |
8:00 AM–9:00 PM |
Traditional Tamil sweets & snacks |
Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
|
| Cream Centre |
9th Floor, Express Avenue Mall |
4.3 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
North Indian and Italian dishes |
Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
|
| Mathsya |
77, Egmore |
4.2 |
N/A |
7:00 AM–10:00 PM |
Pure vegetarian, Udupi cuisine |
Dine-in, Delivery |
Govindas Pure Veg
- Address: 55, Ramasamy Rd, T. Nagar
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5
- Timings: 🕒 7:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Unique Items: Authentic South Indian meals, including idli, dosa, and sambar.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
Govindas Pure Veg is known for its authentic South Indian vegetarian meals, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a traditional yet wholesome Christmas Eve dinner.
Ashvita Bistro
- Address: 11, Bawa Rd, Alwarpet
- Rating: ⭐ 4.4
- Timings: 🕒 11:00 AM–11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Continental dishes and vegan options like vegan pasta and salads.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway.
Why Visit?
Ashvita Bistro blends contemporary continental dishes with vegan-friendly options, offering a sophisticated and health-conscious buffet for vegetarians.
The Grand Sweets & Snacks
- Address: Multiple locations in Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.6
- Timings: 🕒 8:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Unique Items: Traditional Tamil sweets like laddoo, mysore pak, and festive snacks.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery.
Why Visit?
Famous for its festive sweets and savory snacks, The Grand Sweets & Snacks is an excellent choice for a quick yet fulfilling vegetarian feast.
Cream Centre
- Address: 9th Floor, Express Avenue Mall
- Rating: ⭐ 4.3
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Unique Items: North Indian dishes, chole bhature, and Italian specialties like pasta.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery.
Why Visit?
Cream Centre offers a unique combination of North Indian and Italian vegetarian dishes, ensuring a diverse and flavorful Christmas Eve buffet.
Mathsya
- Address: 77, Egmore
- Rating: ⭐ 4.2
- Timings: 🕒 7:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Unique Items: Udupi cuisine, including ghee roast dosa and filter coffee.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Delivery.
Why Visit?
Mathsya’s Udupi-inspired menu makes it a standout choice for those craving South Indian vegetarian flavors on Christmas Eve.
Non-Vegetarian Buffets
Nonvegetarian buffets delight those with a penchant for meat and fish, with sumptuous arrangements of grills, curries, roasts, and seafood. Ideal for events they offer all sorts of meals! So, here are the 5 shutters you can order the tastiest non-veg dishes, have a look.
|
|
Address |
Rating |
Contact Number |
Timings |
Unique Items |
Service Options |
| Absolute Barbecues |
T. Nagar, Chennai |
4.5 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Grilled meats, BBQ buffets |
|
| Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant |
Alwarpet, Chennai |
4.3 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Authentic Chettinad non-veg meals |
Dine-in, Delivery |
| Dindigul Thalappakatti |
Multiple locations in Chennai |
4.4 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Famous biryani dishes |
Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
|
| The Cascade |
Adyar, Chennai |
4.2 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–10:00 PM |
Chinese and seafood dishes |
Dine-in, Delivery |
| Peshawri |
ITC Grand Chola, Guindy, Chennai |
4.7 |
N/A |
12:30 PM–3:30 PM |
North-West Frontier cuisine |
Dine-in |
Absolute Barbecues
- Address: T. Nagar, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Grilled meats, BBQ buffets, and live grills.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway.
Why Visit?
Absolute Barbecues is a meat lover’s paradise, offering an extensive buffet with live grilling stations where you can customize your dishes. Perfect for a festive and interactive dining experience.
Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant
- Address: Alwarpet, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.3
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Authentic Chettinad non-vegetarian dishes, including pepper chicken and nandu masala.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Delivery.
Why Visit?
Known for its bold Chettinad flavors, Anjappar is an excellent choice for those who would love to savor traditional South Indian non-vegetarian recipes
Dindigul Thalappakatti
- Address: Multiple locations in Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.4
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Famous biryani dishes with multiple meat options are available.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery.
Why Visit?
A household name for biryani lovers, Dindigul Thalappakatti is a must-visit for a hearty and flavorful Christmas Eve dinner.
The Cascade
- Address: Adyar, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.2
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
- Unique Items: Chinese and seafood specialties like dim sums and prawns in garlic sauce.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Delivery.
Why Visit?
For fans of Chinese and seafood, The Cascade offers an exquisite buffet with a wide range of dishes that cater to every palate.
Peshawri (ITC Grand Chola)
- Address: ITC Grand Chola, Guindy, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.7
- Timings: 🕒 12:30 PM–3:30 PM
- Unique Items: North-West Frontier cuisine, including kebabs and dal bukhara.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
Peshawri offers a regal dining experience with its robust North-West Frontier cuisine, making it an excellent spot for a luxurious Christmas Eve dinner.
Chennai’s vegetarian and non-vegetarian Christmas Eve dinner buffets cater to every taste, from traditional South Indian meals at Govinda’s to exotic North-West Frontier cuisine at Peshawri. Whether you’re craving spicy biryani, smoky grilled meats, or wholesome vegetarian fare, the city’s dining scene promises a delightful Christmas Eve filled with flavors and festive cheer.
Family Christmas Dinner in Chennai
Chennai offers a variety of restaurants perfect for families looking to enjoy a warm and festive Christmas dinner. From traditional South Indian flavors to authentic Chettinad cuisine and North Indian specialties, these family-friendly dining spots provide something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of the best restaurants in Chennai for a family Christmas dinner:
|
|
Address |
Rating |
Contact Number |
Timings |
Unique Items |
Service Options |
| Murugan Idli Shop |
T. Nagar, Chennai |
4.6 |
N/A |
7:00 AM–10:00 PM |
Famous idlis and chutney varieties |
Dine-in |
| Sangeetha Veg Restaurant |
Adyar, Chennai |
4.5 |
N/A |
7:00 AM–10:00 PM |
Udupi-style South Indian meals |
|
| Adyar Ananda Bhavan |
Mount Road, Chennai |
4.3 |
N/A |
7:00 AM–10:00 PM |
South Indian and sweets |
Dine-in, Delivery |
| Sigree |
Nungambakkam, Chennai |
4.4 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
North Indian tandoor dishes |
Dine-in |
| Kaaraikudi Chettinad |
Nungambakkam, Chennai |
4.2 |
N/A |
12:00 PM–11:00 PM |
Authentic Chettinad cuisine |
Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery
|
Murugan Idli Shop
- Location: T. Nagar, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.6
- Timings: 🕒 7:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Special Meal: Soft idlis with a variety of chutneys and sambars.
- Service Style: Dine-in.
Why to Visit?
Murugan Idli Shop is like the quintessential Chennai dining experience for families who want a South Indian meal, simple yet delectable. It’s truly a feast for kids as well as their elders with soft idlis, ghee-drenched dosas, and signature chutneys.
Sangeetha Veg Restaurant
- Address: Adyar, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.5
- Timings: 🕒 7:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Unique Items: Udupi-style South Indian meals, including vadas and pongal.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway.
Why Visit?
Sangeetha Veg Restaurant is perfect for a wholesome vegetarian Christmas dinner. With its wide selection of Udupi-style dishes and quick service, it’s a family favorite for those who appreciate authentic South Indian cuisine.
Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B)
- Address: Mount Road, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.3
- Timings: 🕒 7:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Unique Items: South Indian meals, festive sweets, and snacks.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Delivery.
Why Visit?
A2B is a place family frequently relish both savory South Indian meals and traditional festive sweets in one place. Their menu includes such items as Pongal, crispy dosas, and loads of Christmas-themed sweets and other such items.
Sigree
- Address: Nungambakkam, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.4
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Tandoori platters, kebabs, and North Indian curries.
- Service Options: Dine-in.
Why Visit?
For families looking to indulge in smoky tandoor flavors and hearty North Indian dishes, Sigree is an excellent choice. Their tandoori platters are perfect for sharing, making it a great spot for a festive feast.
Kaaraikudi Chettinad
- Address: Nungambakkam, Chennai
- Rating: ⭐ 4.2
- Timings: 🕒 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
- Unique Items: Chettinad specialties like chicken chettinad, nandu masala, and mutton biryani.
- Service Options: Dine-in, Takeaway, Delivery.
Why Visit?
Known for its authentic Chettinad flavors, Kaaraikudi Chettinad is ideal for families who enjoy bold and spicy dishes. Their wide variety of curries and biryanis ensures there’s something for everyone to savor.
Why These Restaurants Are Perfect for Families
These restaurants offer:
- Diverse Menus: from the South Indian classics to North Indian and Chettinad cuisines.
- Comfortable Ambiance: Family-friendly spaces ideal for group dining.
- Authentic Flavors: Each restaurant stays true to its roots, offering a genuine taste of Chennai’s culinary heritage.
Enjoy Chennai Christmas dinner in restaurants here. These offer tradition combined with flavor and comfort during Christmas dinner for any memorable moment spent with the family over any feast. For anyone longing to spend those special moments at their very comforting, soft idlis place or Chettinad curries, they must book a table earlier during North Indian tandoors if it is something their mouth wants.
Side Dishes for a Traditional Christmas Dinner
A Christmas dinner is never complete without a variety of flavorful side dishes that add to the main course. From comfort foods to internationally inspired favorites, the right variety of side dishes can truly enhance and make the festive feast less monotonous. Here are 10 popular and delectable side dishes perfect for a traditional Christmas dinner.
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Description: Creamy mashed potatoes blended with roasted garlic, butter, and cream for a smooth and savory side dish.
Why It’s Great: Versatile and comforting, it’s a great accompaniment to roasts, turkey, or gravies.
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Description: Tender baby carrots, cooked to perfection and coated with a honey butter glaze, sprinkled with fresh parsley.
Why It’s Great: The sweetness of carrots is pleasant when combined with savory main dishes.
Green Bean Almondine
Description: Stir-fried green beans with butter, garlic, and toasted almond, then seasoned with a hint of lemon juice.
Why It’s Great: A tasty crisp that brings a little bit of extra fullness to the side dishes.
Yorkshire Pudding
Description: These are the succulent golden, soft, fluffy, and British side pudding made with only the eggs, flour, and milk into which it is batter and then baked to a crisp.
Why It’s Great: Used for absorbing juicy gravies and sauces around cooked meats like roast beef.
Cranberry Sauce
Description: Fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of sugar are all blended to create a tart and sweet sauce.
Why It’s Great: It cuts through richness with bright fruit flavors in roasted dishes.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Description: Roasted or pan-fried Brussels sprouts that are tossed with crispy bacon bits, and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Why It’s Great: A mouthwatering and slightly smoky dish as it complements roasted meats and gravies.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Description: Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce with layers of cheddar, Parmesan, and a crispy golden crust.
Why It’s Awesome: A decadent and indulgent dish that happens to be the perfect companion to turkey, ham, or beef roasts.
Herb-Buttered Dinner Rolls
Description: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls brushed with a mixture of melted butter and herbs such as thyme and rosemary.
Why It’s Great: Any Christmas table isn’t complete without these rolls, great for mopping up all the sauces and gravies.
Classic Stuffing
Description: A chopped bread baked with onions, celery, seasonings, and broth until it is dry and crisp on the surface.
Why It’s Great: Stuffing is actually more fitting when partnered with turkey or chicken; but nevertheless, stuffing is perfect for the holidays.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Description: Roasted vegetable mix comprising of carrots, parsnips, beets, and sweet potatoes coated in olive oil, and herbs and roasted to crispy caramel colors.
Why It’s Great: This creates a range of colours and thus adds other warm earthy flavours to the meal while helping to balance excess.
Why These Side Dishes Stand Out
These 10 side dishes span from the easiest and most classic, such as creamy mashed potatoes, to a crispy Brussels sprouts dish. These dishes are versatile and carry with them a variety of tastes that could help make your Christmas dinner a feast to remember.
Serve these side dishes with your main dish to have a rounded and filling Christmas meal that will be sure to satisfy your guests.
Traditional Chennai Christmas Dinner Menu
Christmas dinner in Chennai, with its blend of South Indian flavors and colonial influences, presents a rather unique experience. A regular Chennai Christmas dinner menu is an excellent balance between the different local delicacies, festive global dishes, and decadent desserts. Here’s the detailed breakdown of a typical Chennai Christmas dinner menu:
Appetizers
Start your meal with a variety of flavorful appetizers that showcase Chennai’s diverse culinary heritage.
- Chicken 65: Delightfully crispy and spicy fried chicken marinated and flavored with South Indian spices and curry leaves.
- Vegetable Cutlets: Mashed vegetables, spices, and breadcrumbs formed into round patties which are then fried until crisp.
- Prawn Pepper Fry: Crispy Malaysian Eries and succulent steamed prawn seasoned with black pepper, curry lea,f, and lime.
Soups
Soups being a mandatory component of Christmas dinners, the ones especially relished in Chennai are hot and assuring.
- Mutton Bone Soup: A hearty broth flavored with traditional spices to make it the perfect commencement for such festivals.
- Tomato Rasam: A tangy and spicy South Indian soup made of tomatoes, tamarind, and black pepper.
Main Courses
A visit to a restaurant in Chennai during Christmas should be followed by dinner which is unfortunately a combination of spicy, heavy aromas.
- Biryani (Chicken or Mutton): Closely related to biriani, the tasty basmati rice cooked with meat, spices, and herbs served with raita.
- Appam with Stew: Fluffy with a touch of lace and served with a traditional vegetarian or chicken coconut-based gravy called stew.
- Meen Kuzhambu: A fish curry recipe of South India that uses tamarind juice, red chilly, and crushed spices as some of the ingredients.
- Roast Turkey (Optional): A Western-type festive dish prepared with Indian spices and prepped and cooked alongside local ingredients.
Side Dishes
Side dishes that complement the main courses are delicious too.
- Mutton Sukka: Stir-fried pieces of mutton cooked in spices and curry leaves in a dry form.
- Vegetable Poriyal: Stir-fried seasonal vegetables with grated coconut and tempered spices.
- Egg Podimas: Cooked scrambled eggs with onions, green chilies, and spices.
Bread and Rice
Both bread and rice varieties on their menu make up the Christmas dinner of Chennai.
- Malabar Parotta: Flaky layered flatbreads that go beautifully with spicy curries.
- Coconut Rice: Saffron-infused, freshly cut coconut, curry leaves and green chilies cooked with rice.
Desserts
Desserts are very much a part of any Chennai Christmas meal: local and global in influence.
- Plum Cake: A soft spiced cake replete with soaked dry fruits in rum or juice.
- Payasam: A traditional South Indian dessert of milk, jaggery, rice or vermicelli.
- Bebinca: A rich Goan dessert made with coconut milk, eggs, and caramelized sugar.
Beverages
Complete the meal with refreshing drinks that balance the rich flavors of the feast.
- Filter Coffee: Chennai’s iconic beverage, brewed strong and served with frothy milk.
- Coconut Water Mocktail: A tropical drink mixed with lime, mint, and fresh coconut water.
A traditional Chennai Christmas dinner menu reflects the city’s rich culinary culture, blending festive global elements with South Indian specialties. From hearty soups to aromatic biryanis and decadent desserts, every dish is crafted to bring joy and flavor to the table.
The options on this menu give patrons a great chance to celebrate a traditional Christmas dinner, create something new, and have a good dose of strong flavors.
Tips for Planning Your Typical Christmas Dinner
The traditional Christmas dinner which is the main course in almost every home in the Western world is an important meal that deserves the very best that anyone can give.
It is always good to plan for Christmas dinner. In the truest sense, it always had the good side and negative until the time one starts wondering the best way to get one’s loved ones to be happy at Christmas dinner time. It is always important since, starting from the last thought that is making that choice in the menu to the table to take with. Here are some guidelines that will help you prepare for a very special Christmas dinner feast;
Decide on a Theme
A Christmas dinner theme could set the whole ambiance of the evening.
- Traditional: Focus on roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and plum pudding, among other traditional fare.
- Regional: Emphasize local flavors with a Chennai-inspired menu with biryanis and appams.
- Fusion: Take something global and combine it with the local for a unique experience. Roast with South Indian spices.
Plan Your Menu in Advance
A menu is the core of a holiday such as Christmas dinner.
- Balance Your Dishes: Examples of course types include appetizers, soups, mains, side dishes, and desserts.
- Cater to Dietary Needs: There should be special dishes of vegetarian, vegan, and non-veg dishes to cater to every guest.
- Prep Ahead: Recommended foods should be those that can be prepared at least a day before or even cooked halfway to be completed the following day.
Create a Shopping List
Once your menu is finalized, make a detailed shopping list.
- Fresh Ingredients: Plan a trip to the market for fresh vegetables, meats, and herbs a day before dinner.
- Specialty Items: Order any rare ingredients, such as imported cheeses or specific spices, well in advance.
- Beverages: Don’t forget drinks like wine, mocktails, or traditional beverages such as eggnog or filter coffee.
Set the Table
A beautifully set table enhances festive moods.
- Tableware: Use your best china, glassware, and silverware.
- Centerpieces: Decorate with candles, flowers, or a Christmas-themed centerpiece such as a mini tree or wreath.
- Place Cards: Adding personally drawn place cards provides a personal touch to the seating arrangement.
Timing is Everything
Timing ensures that everything works smoothly for your dinner
- Cooking Schedule: Prepare a timeline of when to start preparing each dish.
- Start Early: You should start with foods that do not need further cooking as they are usually warmed such as soups and casseroles.
- Serve Fresh: Cook foods, which may be eaten immediately such as salads or foods freshly grilled should be prepared closer to the meal time.
Incorporate Entertainment
Maintain the energy of the environment friendly and stimulating.
- Music: Make a Christmas list that could include Christmas carols or even instrumental Christmas songs.
- Games: For more entertainment, do not overcomplicate and include games such as Secret Santa or trivia.
- Photo Booth: Create a small corner for photos with backgrounds and Christmas decorations for the wanted speeches.
Make It Kid-Friendly
If you have children attending, ensure they’re part of the celebration.
- Kid-Friendly Menu: Include dishes like mini pizzas, sliders, or mac and cheese.
- Activities: Arrange coloring books, Christmas crafts, or a cookie decorating station.
Prepare for Unexpected Guests
Always prepare a little extra food in case of surprise visitors.
- Flexible Menu: Have quick-to-prepare items like garlic bread or simple stir-fried veggies.
- Beverages: Prepare additional drinks and snacks for any additional guests.
Focus on Desserts
Desserts are a part of Christmas dinner that everyone loves.
- Variety is the key: Always prepare some of the traditional pieces, including plum cake, puddings, and festive sweets.
- Presentation: Bring out the creative desserts on the decorated platter or tiered stand to make it visually presentable.
Relax and Enjoy
Relax and have fun. Christmas is all about fun and tradition to be made.
- Task Assignment: Tell your family to help with the cooking, serving, or setting up.
- Enjoy the Evening: Once the dinner gets going, just enjoy the company of your loved ones.
A well-planned Christmas dinner ensures that you can host without stress and enjoy the festivities as much as your guests. By focusing on organization, preparation, and a touch of creativity, your Christmas dinner will be a feast filled with joy, laughter, and delicious food.
Conclusion
Christmas dinner is the very heart of celebrations during this holiday season, especially in Chennai: family and friends unite over great food and warm conversations. There’s no beating the way of preparing traditional South Indian flavors mixed with global influences to make Christmas dinner a true delight. A sumptuous feast or a family gathering with each traditional dish of Chennai, the secret to a memorable feast lies in careful preparation and meticulous attention to every small detail.
From selecting the perfect side dishes to setting up a festive table, every element of your Christmas dinner can be an expression of joy and love. So, embrace the spirit of the season, savor the flavors, and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones. Merry Christmas and happy feasting!
FAQs
Q1 What is on a perfect Chennai Christmas wishlist?
Ans. Better to try biryani, appam with stew, meen kuzhambu or fish curry, and the dessert plum cake and payasam.
Q2 Which pure veg Christmas Eve dinner buffet restaurants are available in Chennai?
Answer: For pure vegetarian food, one can go to Govindas Pure Veg, Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, and Adyar Ananda Bhavan.
Q3 Is there a place to discuss in Chennai to celebrate Christmas dinner with members of the family?
Ans. Well, of course, there are many friendly family-oriented restaurants and you might have a festive dinner at Murugan Idli Shop, Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, or Kaaraikudi Chettinad.
Q4: Does the Christmas dinner buffet offer vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian?
Ans. Even restaurants like Six ‘O’ One and Absolute Barbecues provide people with an assortment of vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes in their festive buffets.
Q5 How do I make my Christmas dinner in Chennai special?
Ans. A well-planned menu, festive décor, and some local flavors like Chettinad specialties or South Indian sweets will make your dinner spread authentic and tasteful.
Q6 What are the best places for seafood lovers for Christmas dinner in Chennai?
Ans. Those who are seafood lovers must try The Fisherman’s Wharf, Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant, or The Cascade for Christmas dinner.
Q7 Is there something different about dining here in Chennai on Christmas?
Ans. There could be some experience of a themed restaurant like Haunted Restaurant or can be even atop at Heights Rooftop Restaurant.
