Kanchipuram, famous for its temples and handwoven silk sarees, also offers a delicious variety of traditional Tamil cuisine and modern dining options. Whether you are a pilgrim, a traveler, or a food lover, this guide lists the 10 best restaurants in Kanchipuram — including vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and café options — with all the details you need.
1. Upashana Hotel
Location: Near Gandhi Road, Kanchipuram
Type: Vegetarian (South Indian)
Approximate Cost: ₹150 – ₹350 per person
Highlights:
- A favorite among locals for authentic South Indian meals served on banana leaves.
- Simple, clean, and budget-friendly restaurant.
- Known for its delicious sambar, rasam, and poriyal dishes.
Tourist Tips:
- Ideal for lunch after visiting temples nearby.
- Try the full “Tamil Nadu Meals” for a traditional experience.
- Arrive early to ensure availability, as it fills up quickly during peak hours.
2. Nithya Amirtham
Location: 70 Annai Indira Gandhi Salai, near Sri Chitra Guptar Temple, Nellukara Street, Kanchipuram – 631502
Type: Pure Vegetarian (South Indian, North Indian)
Approximate Cost: ₹200 – ₹400 per person
Highlights:
- One of the most popular vegetarian restaurants in Kanchipuram.
- Serves authentic Tamil Nadu-style food including idli, dosa, pongal, meals, and strong filter coffee.
- Clean and comfortable environment, perfect for families and pilgrims.
Tourist Tips:
- Visit early morning for fresh breakfast before temple visits.
- Try the “Mini Meals” for a variety of dishes.
- Usually crowded between 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM; plan accordingly.
3. Hotel Saravana Bhavan
Location: 66 Annai Indira Gandhi Salai, near Bus Stand, Kanchipuram – 631502
Type: Pure Vegetarian (South Indian Chain Restaurant)
Approximate Cost: ₹250 – ₹450 per person
Highlights:
- Well-known restaurant chain famous across South India for consistency and hygiene.
- Offers a wide variety of vegetarian South Indian meals, tiffin items, and sweets.
- Ideal for families and large groups.
Tourist Tips:
- Expect waiting times during lunch hours.
- Their “South Indian Thali” and “Rava Dosa” are highly recommended.
- Good location for travelers staying near the bus stand or central market.
4. VB World by Namma Veedu Vasanta Bhavan
Location: 504 Gandhi Road, Ennaikaran, Kanchipuram – 631501
Type: Vegetarian (South Indian, North Indian, and Chinese)
Approximate Cost: ₹300 – ₹500 per person
Highlights:
- A modern vegetarian restaurant chain offering both traditional and contemporary dishes.
- Air-conditioned space with comfortable seating.
- Offers excellent South Indian thalis and North Indian gravies.
Tourist Tips:
- Great option for families who prefer a clean and modern setup.
- Try the curd rice or ghee roast dosa for an authentic taste.
- Suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
5. Thahira Hotel
Location: 164–494 Gandhi Road, Ennaikaran, Kanchipuram – 631501
Type: Non-Vegetarian (South Indian and Biryani Specialties)
Approximate Cost: ₹250 – ₹450 per person
Highlights:
- One of the best non-vegetarian restaurants in Kanchipuram.
- Famous for its flavorful biryanis, chicken, and mutton dishes.
- Offers quick service and clean seating area.
Tourist Tips:
- Visit around lunchtime for the best biryani experience.
- Good choice for travelers who prefer non-vegetarian meals.
- Takeaway and parcel options available for those on the move.
6. Meat & Eat Family Restaurant
Location: Near Kanchipuram Bus Stand
Type: Multi-Cuisine (Non-Vegetarian and Vegetarian)
Approximate Cost: ₹200 – ₹400 per person
Highlights:
- Offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
- Serves Indian, Chinese, and fast food items.
- Suitable for families looking for a mix of menu options.
Tourist Tips:
- Recommended for travelers staying near the central area.
- Try chicken fried rice or tandoori starters for variety.
- Check cleanliness before dining during rush hours.
7. Star Chicken Biryani Centre
Location: Near Gandhi Road, Kanchipuram
Type: Non-Vegetarian (Biryani and South Indian)
Approximate Cost: ₹200 – ₹350 per person
Highlights:
- Local favorite for spicy and flavorful biryanis.
- Serves chicken, mutton, and egg biryani with traditional spices.
- Good value for money and large portions.
Tourist Tips:
- Ideal for quick lunch or takeaway.
- Not a fine-dining restaurant — mainly for food lovers looking for authentic taste.
- Visit before 2:00 PM for freshly cooked biryani.
8. Sai Sangeet Fine Dine
Location: 63/8 Nelluakara Street, Annai Indira Gandhi Salai, Kanchipuram – 631502
Type: Vegetarian (Fine Dining)
Approximate Cost: ₹300 – ₹500 per person
Highlights:
- Elegant fine-dining restaurant offering a wide range of vegetarian dishes.
- Air-conditioned dining area with peaceful ambiance.
- Known for thali meals, North Indian curries, and desserts.
Tourist Tips:
- Perfect for a relaxed dinner after sightseeing.
- Ask for the chef’s special thali.
- Great for family dinners or small celebrations.
9. Bharath Restaurant
Location: Ramanujar Nagar, Chetty Street, Kanchipuram
Type: Multi-Cuisine (South Indian, North Indian, and Chinese)
Approximate Cost: ₹250 – ₹400 per person
Highlights:
- Serves a diverse menu including both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
- Spacious and comfortable dining area.
- Good service and family-friendly atmosphere.
Tourist Tips:
- Suitable for large groups with mixed food preferences.
- Try their Chinese fried rice and Manchurian combos.
- Lunch hours tend to be busy — reservations are advisable.
10. Dindigul Thalappakatti
Location: Gandhi Road, Kanchipuram
Type: Non-Vegetarian (Biryani Specialty Chain)
Approximate Cost: ₹350 – ₹600 per person
Highlights:
- Renowned biryani restaurant chain from Tamil Nadu, famous for Dindigul-style biryani.
- Offers chicken, mutton, and vegetarian biryani along with South Indian sides.
- Clean, comfortable interiors with quick service.
Tourist Tips:
- Perfect for families or groups wanting authentic Tamil Nadu biryani.
- Try their “Boneless Chicken Biryani” and “Pepper Chicken.”
- Expect moderate spice levels — suitable for most travelers.
General Food & Travel Tips for Kanchipuram
- Best Time for Meals:
- Breakfast: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Lunch: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- Dinner: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Cuisine Highlights:
- Must-try local dishes: Kanchipuram Idli, Pongal, Sambar Rice, South Indian Thali, Filter Coffee, and Dindigul-style Biryani.
- Dietary Preferences:
- Kanchipuram is predominantly vegetarian, but there are several non-vegetarian options near Gandhi Road and the bus stand.
- Payment:
- Most restaurants accept UPI, debit/credit cards, and cash.
- Smaller eateries may prefer cash payments.
- Hygiene & Safety:
- Stick to well-rated restaurants for better hygiene.
- Avoid roadside stalls if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Cultural Etiquette:
- Many locals eat traditional meals on banana leaves — a must-try experience.
- Avoid wasting food; many local eateries encourage responsible dining.
- Nearby Attractions:
- Most top restaurants are near major temples such as Kamakshi Amman Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple.
- You can easily combine temple visits with meal breaks at the above restaurants.