February 15, 2011

Southern Treasure

There is something magical about Southern Aromas. Maybe it is the beautiful, homestyle Chettinad setting, maybe it is the extremely friendly and courteous stewards, or maybe…it’s the mouth-watering food. Whatever be the reason, it is definitely one of the places to visit, if a south Indian meal is what you’re craving for. With a menu that spans pages, what immediately strikes you is the clarity and precision that have gone into planning the set of choices from the different regions — be it Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka or Andhra Pradesh.

For starters, try the brilliantly rendered fried fish, kothamalli kozhi or the mutton chukka. The meat is spicy, the flavours just right and the portions, generous. For vegetarians, the mushroom Chettinad hits the right spot. Since the place plays host to a numbers of expats as well, there are some signature dishes on the menu that holds permanent residence on the card. Popular choices include kozhi varutha curry, karuvepelai poondu kozhambu, Chettinad chicken, ulli theeyal and nandu masala. If you are still unable to decide, then do ask for the chef ’s recommendation or the special of the day.

It’s really quite difficult to single out one specific dish that stands out among others because everything on the menu is worth a try at least once. But if a choice has to be made, then go for the Ambur kheema rice, which consists of steamed rice mixed with spices, minced mutton and scrambled egg. Though the dessert choices are limited to the usual paruppu and elaneer payasam, after such an elaborate meal, I wouldn’t blame you entirely if you gave the sweet treats a miss!

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