Top 20 Famous Food of Tamil Nadu You Must Try

Tamil Nadu is famous for its vibrant and diverse culinary tradition, offering a rich array of dishes that reflect the region’s cultural heritage and passion for flavourful food. The food of Tamil Nadu is a true representation of the state’s love for spices, coconut, rice, and lentils, making it a must-try experience for any food enthusiast. From delectable breakfast staples to spicy curries, the cuisine of Tamil Nadu is known for its bold flavours and variety. Whether you're sampling street food or indulging in a traditional meal, the famous food of Tamil Nadu is sure to leave you wanting more.

Here is a list of the top 20 famous foods of Tamil Nadu that you must try to fully appreciate the rich and diverse culinary traditions of this southern Indian state:

1. Idli and Vada 
2. Dosai (Dosa)
3. Sambar
4. Puliyodarai
5. Paruppu Payasam
6. Pollachi Nandu Fry
7. Rasam
8. Mutton Kola Urundai
9. Chicken Chettinad
10. Filter Kaapi
11. Pongal
12. Murukku
13. Poriyal
14. Lemon Rice
15. Banana Bonda
16. Uttapam
17. Kootu
18. Kuzhi Paniyaram
19. Sundal
20. Appam

1. Idli

Idli and Vada are iconic breakfast staples and cherished elements of the famous food of Tamil Nadu. Idli, a soft, steamed rice cake, and Vada, a crispy, Savory lentil doughnut, are often enjoyed for their wholesome and delicious combination. Both dishes reflect the simplicity and flavour that define the cuisine of Tamil Nadu, offering a perfect balance of textures – the softness of the idli and the crunch of the vada. These dishes not only highlight the state's love for rice and lentils but also its mastery in creating healthy, flavourful meals that are enjoyed across India.

Best Served With: Idli and Vada are best enjoyed with a variety of flavourful accompaniments such as tangy sambar, creamy coconut chutney, or a spicy tomato chutney, enhancing their taste and making for a fulfilling meal.

2. Dosai

Dosai (Dosa) is a beloved and versatile dish that holds a special place in the food of Tamil Nadu. This thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter is a staple in Tamil households and is enjoyed at any time of the day. The cuisine of Tamil Nadu offers a variety of dosai, from the classic plain dosa to more elaborate versions like masala dosa, which is stuffed with spiced potatoes. Its crisp texture and light, Savory flavour make it a favourite among food lovers, showcasing the state's mastery in creating simple yet delicious meals.

Best Served With: Dosai is best served with an array of accompaniments, including tangy sambar, coconut chutney, tomato chutney, and sometimes a dollop of ghee or butter. For a heartier meal, it can also be paired with a potato-based masala filling.

3. Sambar

Sambar is a quintessential dish in the food of Tamil Nadu, known for its rich, flavourful blend of lentils, tamarind, and vegetables. This hearty, tangy stew is a staple in Tamil cuisine and is enjoyed in almost every household. Sambar’s unique flavour comes from the combination of spices and vegetables simmered with toor dal, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. The cuisine of Tamil Nadu often features sambar in daily meals, showcasing the state's love for vibrant, wholesome food.

Best Served With: Sambar is best served with rice, idli, dosai, vada, or even pongal, adding a flavourful and tangy twist to these popular dishes.

4. Puliyodarai

Tamarind, coconut, and rice are very common ingredients used in the traditional food of Tamil Nadu, especially Tamil Brahmin food. One dish that combines tamarind and rice is Puliyodarai. It is a special Tamil Nadu traditional dish and is generally made during festivals and special occasions. First, it is offered to God as prasadam while praying in the temple and then enjoyed by people. It is really easy to prepare this tangy delicious dish and is generally accompanied with fryums or papadams.

5. Paruppu Payasam

Paruppu Payasam is a delectable dessert that holds a special place in the cuisine of Tamil Nadu. Made with moong dal (split yellow lentils), jaggery, and coconut milk and flavoured with cardamom, this sweet dish is often prepared during festivals and special occasions. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it a perfect end to a traditional Tamil meal. Paruppu Payasam reflects the state's use of simple, wholesome ingredients to create indulgent and satisfying desserts that have been passed down through generations.

Best Served With: Paruppu Payasam is best served warm, garnished with roasted cashews and raisins, making it a delightful treat to enjoy after a flavourful meal.

6. Pollachi Nandu Fry

This traditional food of Tamil Nadu is for seafood lovers! Tamil Nadu is a coastal state and there are many cities where you can have the pleasure of feasting on some incredible seafood dishes. One such dish is the Pollachi Nandu Fry. It is a Crab Fry dish that is prepared using a special spice mix that goes really well with the naturally sweet flavour of the crab. Many seafood restaurants serving South Indian cuisines include this dish on their menu, but there is just something magical about enjoying the dish in Tamil Nadu.

7. Rasam

Rasam is a tangy and spicy soup that is a staple and famous food of Tamil Nadu, known for its refreshing and digestive properties. Made with tamarind juice, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like black pepper, cumin, and mustard seeds, Rasam is often served as part of a traditional Tamil meal. Its light, broth-like consistency and bold flavours make it a comforting dish, especially enjoyed with steamed rice. Rasam showcases Tamil Nadu's expertise in using simple ingredients to create a dish that's both flavourful and nourishing.

Best Served With: Rasam is best served with hot steamed rice, accompanied by papad or any vegetable stir-fry, making for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

8. Mutton Kola Urundai

Mutton Kola Urundai is a delicious and flavourful meatball dish that is a beloved part of the cuisine of Tamil Nadu. Made from minced mutton mixed with spices, herbs, and roasted lentils, these crispy, deep-fried meatballs are packed with robust flavours. Often served as an appetizer or side dish, Mutton Kola Urundai is especially popular in Chettinad cuisine, where the perfect blend of spices gives it its distinct taste. This dish highlights the state's ability to transform simple ingredients into a delightful treat that is loved by both locals and visitors.

Best Served With: Mutton Kola Urundai is best served with mint chutney or a side of rice and curry, making it a perfect addition to any traditional Tamil meal

9. Chicken Chettinad

Chicken Chettinad is a fiery and aromatic dish known for its bold use of spices and rich flavours. As one of the most popular non-vegetarian dishes, it is a staple in the food of Tamil Nadu, showcasing the region’s expertise in using a complex mix of spices. The dish is made by marinating chicken in a fragrant blend of ground spices, coconut, and curry leaves, resulting in a deliciously spicy and flavourful gravy. Chicken Chettinad is a favourite among those who love intense and aromatic flavours in their meals.

Best Served With: Chicken Chettinad is best served with steamed rice, parotta, or dosa, making for a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal.

10. Filter Kaapi

Filter Kaapi is an iconic beverage and an integral part of the food of Tamil Nadu. This strong, aromatic coffee is traditionally brewed using a metal filter, blending freshly ground coffee beans with hot water to create a rich decoction. The coffee is then mixed with frothy milk and served in a steel tumbler and davara, which enhances the authentic experience. Filter Kaapi is beloved for its robust flavour and is a must-have for coffee lovers across the state, often enjoyed in the morning or after a meal.

Best Served With: Filter Kaapi is best enjoyed on its own or paired with popular Tamil breakfast items like idli, dosa, or vada, offering a refreshing and energizing start to the day.

11. Pongal

Pongal is a hearty and comforting dish made from rice and lentils, typically flavoured with black pepper, cumin, and ghee. It holds a significant place in the famous food of Tamil Nadu, especially during festivals like Pongal, where it symbolizes prosperity and abundance. This dish comes in two variations: the Savory version, Ven Pongal, and the sweet version, Sakkarai Pongal, both of which are staples in Tamil households. Pongal’s simplicity and rich flavours make it a beloved meal, often enjoyed for breakfast or during special occasions.

Best Served With: Pongal is best served with coconut chutney and sambar for the Savory version, while Sakkarai Pongal is typically paired with a drizzle of ghee and roasted nuts for added flavour.

12. Murukku

Murukku is a crunchy, spiral-shaped snack that is a beloved part of the food of Tamil Nadu. Made from a mixture of rice flour and urad dal flour and seasoned with spices like cumin or sesame seeds, Murukku is deep-fried to achieve its characteristic crispy texture. This snack is commonly prepared during festivals and celebrations, but it is also enjoyed as an everyday treat with tea or coffee. Its name comes from the Tamil word "twisted," which refers to the intricate shape of the snack.

Best Served With: Murukku is best enjoyed as a standalone snack or paired with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it a delightful and crispy accompaniment to a light meal.

13. Poriyal

Poriyal is a simple yet flavourful stir-fried vegetable dish that is commonly served as a side in traditional Tamil meals. It is prepared by sautéing vegetables like beans, carrots, or cabbage with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut. Lightly spiced and packed with nutrients, Poriyal offers a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seasonal vegetables. This dish is a staple in many Tamil households, where it is typically paired with rice and sambar or rasam. Poriyal perfectly showcases the balance of flavours in the food of Tamil Nadu.

Best Served With: Poriyal is best served with steamed rice and sambar, rasam, or curd, making it a perfect side dish that complements the flavours of a traditional Tamil meal. 

14. Lemon Rice

Lemon Rice is a zesty and colourful dish that holds a special place in the food of Tamil Nadu, often enjoyed for its refreshing flavour and simplicity. Made by mixing cooked rice with a seasoning of lemon juice, turmeric, mustard seeds, curry leaves, and peanuts, this dish bursts with flavour and offers a refreshing twist to plain rice. Lemon Rice is commonly prepared during festivals and picnics or as an easy-to-make lunch option. Its zesty flavour, combined with the crunch of peanuts, makes it a crowd favourite across Tamil Nadu.

Best Served With: Lemon Rice is best served with papad, pickle, or coconut chutney, providing a balanced and satisfying meal. 

15. Banana Bonda

Banana Bonda is a popular snack in the food of Tamil Nadu, and it is known for its sweet and crispy texture. Made from ripe bananas mashed and mixed with flour, sugar, and a touch of cardamom, the batter is then deep-fried to golden perfection. The result is a deliciously soft and sweet inside, encased in a crispy outer layer. This snack is commonly enjoyed during tea time and is a favourite among those with a sweet tooth.

Best Served With: Banana Bonda is best served hot, paired with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal snack for a light and satisfying treat. 

16. Uttapam

Uttapam is a Savory pancake made from fermented rice and lentil batter, topped with vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. This dish is a staple in the cuisine of Tamil Nadu, known for its thicker and softer texture compared to dosai. Often referred to as an "Indian pizza" due to its toppings, Uttapam offers a wholesome and flavourful meal that is enjoyed for breakfast or dinner. The combination of crispy edges and a soft, fluffy centre makes it a popular dish across the region.

Best Served With: Uttapam is best served with sambar, coconut chutney, and tomato chutney, making for a delicious and complete meal. 

17. Kootu

Kootu is a nutritious and mildly spiced vegetable and lentil stew that is a staple in the cuisine of Tamil Nadu. Typically made with a mix of vegetables like pumpkin, spinach, or beans, along with lentils, it is flavoured with coconut and tempered with mustard seeds and curry leaves. Kootu is a perfect blend of health and taste, highlighting the balanced use of lentils and vegetables in the food of Tamil Nadu. This wholesome dish is often enjoyed as part of a traditional meal, providing both flavour and nourishment.

Best Served With: Kootu is best served with steamed rice or chapati or as an accompaniment to sambar or rasam, making it a versatile and delicious side dish.

18. Kuzhi Paniyaram

Kuzhi Paniyaram is a soft and spongy snack made from fermented rice and lentil batter, similar to idli or dosa but cooked in a special paniyaram pan. These bite-sized treats can be made either sweet or Savory, depending on the ingredients added. The Savory version is typically flavoured with spices, onions, and curry leaves, while the sweet version is made with jaggery. Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, Kuzhi Paniyaram is a popular snack enjoyed at breakfast or as an evening treat. It showcases the versatility and ingenuity of the food of Tamil Nadu. 

Best Served With: Kuzhi Paniyaram is best served with coconut chutney, tomato chutney, or sambar, making it a delightful and flavourful snack for any time of the day.

19. Sundal

Sundal is a simple yet flavourful dish made from boiled legumes like chickpeas or black-eyed peas, seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut. It is commonly prepared as a snack or offering during festivals like Navratri. Sundal highlights the healthy and protein-rich aspects of the food of Tamil Nadu, which is often enjoyed for its light and nutritious qualities. This dish is quick to prepare and is a favourite during religious celebrations and as an everyday snack.

Best Served With: Sundal is best enjoyed on its own as a snack or as a side dish with a traditional Tamil meal.

20. Appam

Appam is a soft and fluffy rice pancake with crispy edges, known for its light and airy texture. This traditional dish is a beloved part of the food of Tamil Nadu, often enjoyed for breakfast or dinner. Made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, Appam is usually served with sweetened coconut milk or a Savory stew like vegetable or chicken curry. Its unique combination of crispiness on the outside and a soft centre makes it a favourite among those who enjoy mild yet flavorful meals.

Best Served With: Appam is best served with coconut milk, vegetable stew, or chicken curry, making it a versatile dish that complements both sweet and Savoury sides.

Tamil Nadu's rich culinary tradition is a reflection of its vibrant culture and heritage, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. The food of Tamil Nadu showcases a perfect blend of bold flavours, spices, and simplicity, offering a diverse array of dishes that appeal to every palate. From street food to traditional meals, the cuisine of Tamil Nadu is a journey into the heart of South Indian flavours. Whether you're exploring its famous hill stations or coastal towns, the state's culinary offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression. With the famous food of Tamil Nadu being celebrated across the country, it's no wonder that travellers return to experience the region's hospitality and flavours time and again.

Best Time to Visit Tamil Nadu:

The table provides a clear overview of the weather conditions you can expect in Tamil Nadu throughout the year.

The best time to visit Tamil Nadu is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the state's diverse attractions.

How to Reach Tamil Nadu:

Tamil Nadu is easily accessible by air, rail, road, and even by sea, offering multiple travel options for visitors.

• By Air: Tamil Nadu is well-connected by air, with major international airports in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Tiruchirappalli. Chennai International Airport is the primary hub for both domestic and international flights, making it the easiest way to reach the state from within India and abroad.
• By Train: Tamil Nadu has an extensive railway network that connects it to major cities across India. Chennai Central, Egmore, and Coimbatore Junction are key railway stations offering services to various parts of the country. Trains are a convenient and economical way to travel to Tamil Nadu.
• By Road: The state has a well-developed road network, with several national highways linking it to neighbouring states. You can reach Tamil Nadu by bus, car, or taxi from cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kochi. State-run and private buses offer frequent services, providing easy access to the region.
• By Sea: For those looking for a unique way to travel, Tamil Nadu's coastal cities, like Chennai, have ports that offer limited ferry services, especially to nearby coastal locations like Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Where to stay in Tamil Nadu:

Club Mahindra offers three premium resorts in Tamil Nadu, providing excellent accommodation options for travellers seeking comfort and relaxation.

• Club Mahindra Danish Villa, Ooty Resort in Tamil Nadu – A beautiful and serene retreat nestled in the hills of Ooty, this resort in Ooty offers breathtaking views, modern amenities, and a peaceful ambiance perfect for a getaway.
• For food enthusiasts, Leslige Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Ooty. Located within the premises of Club Mahindra Danish Villa, this multi-cuisine restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes through its extensive à la carte and buffet menu, catering to all tastes and preferences.
• Club Mahindra Derby Green, Ooty Resort in Tamil Nadu – Another fantastic option in Ooty, this resort in Ooty is set in a colonial-style property with lush green surroundings and easy access to the main attractions of Ooty.
• For a delightful dining experience, Ascot Restaurant is a highly popular multi-cuisine restaurant located within the picturesque Club Mahindra Derby Green resort. Offering both buffet and à la carte options, Ascot is perfect for enjoying a delicious and fulfilling breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it a favourite among guests for its diverse and flavourful menu.
• Le Poshe Resort in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu – Located in the scenic hill station of Kodaikanal, this resort in Kodaikanal provides a perfect blend of comfort and nature, offering a memorable stay for travellers.

With a Club Mahindra membership, you can access these resorts and over 140+ Club Mahindra resorts worldwide, ensuring a hassle-free vacation experience filled with top-notch amenities.