Chennai's culinary landscape is deeply rooted in traditional South Indian flavors, though it actively embraces a growing global and pan-Indian food scene.
* **Signature Foods**: Idli, dosa, vada, and pongal served with diverse chutneys and sambar. The city is also famous for traditional South Indian filter coffee. * **Local Cuisines**: Chettinad cuisine, known for its fiery and complex spice blends, is highly popular at local institutions like Anjappar and Ponnusamy. * **Famous Establishments**: Saravana Bhavan and Murugan Idli Shop are global standard-bearers for vegetarian fare. The historic Buhari Hotel is widely credited as the birthplace of the famous dish "Chicken 65." * **Street Food**: The promenade at Marina Beach is famous for evening snacks like *sundal* (spiced chickpeas), *bajji* (fried fritters), and fresh seafood.
