FIVE MUST-VISIT CAFES IN PONDICHERRY

Pondicherry needs no special mention while we talk about the best getaways in India. A place where French culture beautifully meets Indian heritage, Pondicherry is a mirage of quaint beaches, cheerful roads, colourful houses, and picturesque surroundings. Apart from offering a mesmerising view of the sunset and sunrise, and the cool breeze at the beaches, Pondicherry is also a heaven for food lovers. This French colony houses many cafes and restaurants offering lip-smacking cuisines. Whether it is European, Asian or local, each cafe is worth visiting.

Here's our list of five best cafes and restaurants in Pondicherry known for their food and ambiance. While winter is considered to be the best time to visit Pondicherry, it’s time to walk the lanes of this gorgeous white colony and indulge in flavoursome food.
 

Le Dupleix

To relive the old-world charm, come to this 18th century home, a perfect blend of sophistication and modernity. You can enjoy the outdoors as well as indoor setting, both equally pleasing to the eyes. The trees at Le Dupleix form a canopy which makes it a perfect dining place gazing at the beautiful sky. The food here features French and Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Do try their fish dishes like Tawa Fried Fish served with lemon mashed potatoes and the Rasam aux Crevettes.

Location: 5, Rue De La Caserne, White Town, Pondicherry

Photo Credit: Le Dupleix
 

Villa Shanti

True to its name, Villa Shanti can be the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the meals in the company of your loved ones. You have the option to dine in the open patio where you get to experience the French essence or in between the vertical garden located in the corner of the building. Villa Shanti offers cuisine from all over India. Their signature dish is the Patrani Slipper Lobster which is a Parsi styled marinated lobster wrapped in banana leaves. Another star dish of this cafe is Spinach and Roasted Apple Salad which comes in a blast of flavours. Visiting Pondicherry might not do justice without tasting the delicacies at Villa Shanti.

Location: Villa Shanti, 14, Suffren Street, White Town, Pondicherry

Photo Credit: Villa Shanti
 

Coromandel Cafe
They say the food is art! If you look for food being artsy, Coromandel cafe is there to win your heart. Located in a beautiful pink mansion, enjoy your meal in the company of twinkling sky and shadowing trees. They serve some of the amazing seafood dishes which become favourite in no time. Paneer and burnt aubergine; Harissa Tomato Macaroni Bake; Chopped Pesto Fettuccini are some of their showstoppers. And yes, if you are vegan, you’ve hit the right spot.

Location: 8, Romain Rolland St, White Town, Pondicherry

Photo Credit: Coromandel Cafe
 

Tanto Pizzeria
To satiate your pizza craving when in Pondicherry, there can be no better place than Tanto Pizzeria. Serving hot and classic pizzas since 2008, Tanto Pizzeria’s use vegetables which are organically grown in the farms of Auroville. They have 28 different varieties of pizzas and boasts a farm-to-table concept. Do not forget their selection of home-made ice creams.

Location: 29, Diagou Mudaliar Street, Pondicherry

Photo Credit: Tanto Pizzeria

Les Alize

This rooftop restaurant at Palais de Mahe will spark up your holiday mood in Pondicherry. With its colonial architecture and finest of ambiance, Les Alize is there to make your evenings in Pondicherry merrier. Do try their classic prawn mango curry and Nadan Kozhi curry with appams. The restaurant offers a beautiful arrangement of dishes from Kerala that keeps changing according to season. Here at Les Alize, enjoy the coastal vibe overlooking the Bay of Bengal.

Location: Palais de Mahe - CGH Earth Hotel, Pondicherry

Photo  Credit: Les Alize
 

Drooling already? Plan your next trip to Pondicherry before the year ends!