In Chennai, if you want the definitive taste of Sambaar, there is clearly one name that comes to most minds -
Saravana Bhavan.

Rates at Saravana Bhavan are not as wallet-friendly as they used to be, but when you have downed any of their specials on the menu, you won't be complaining.The outdoor catering facility helps bring the best of Saravana Bhavan to your function or party.

Address : Saravana Bhavan, # 19, Vadapalani Andavar Koil Street, Vadapalani,
Chennai - 600 026
Phone : 483 2671, 483 8723

Everything about this restaurant is Chettinadu. The waiters are attired in the traditional Panchakacham (Dhoti, tucked in behind, in five folds). At the entrance are two brass pots, as in a typical Chettinadu bungalow. Soft lit, the interiors are pleasingly decorated with light brown carpeting and dark brown wood paneling. The seating capacity is 82 covers.

Kaaraikudi has become so top-of-the-mind today that outstation visitors ask for and dine at this place. Check out their specialties like Kaadai Varuval, Pallathur Special Chicken, Chettiar Special Chicken Pepper Roast and Pigeon Varuval. (Varuval in Tamil means fry).

An average meal for two costs around Rs.110/-. At around 1.00 or 2.00 p.m. you may have to wait a few minutes for your seat. Outdoor catering is undertaken.
Open from 11 am to 3.30 p.m. and from 7 p.m. till midnight.

Address: Kaaraikudi, # 84, Dr Radhakrishnan Salai,
Opposite AVM Rajeshwari Kalyana Mandapam, Chennai - 600 004
Phone: 826 9122

Komala's serves typical South Indian cuisine in the ambience of a fast food joint. It was originally started in 1947 in Singapore to cater to the South Indian population there and later opened a branch in Chennai.

The interiors are pleasant, there is music which swings from popular to classical and there is also a playroom for kids (for whom the prices are reduced).

Komala's also undertakes outdoor catering.

Address: Komala's, # 3-A, Kodambakkam High Road,
(Near Parsn Complex),Chennai - 600 034
Phone: 828 2786
Admin Office: 828 2787