Call it Puducherry, Putucceri, or just Pondy, this is an amazing place not just for museums, temples, but also restaurants. This place is also shown in the opening sequence of the movie ‘Life of Pi’. Pondicherry is serene and charming as depicted. Tree-lined avenues, a gorgeous walkway by the colourful villas, sea and a little tint of France. From the language, and architecture to food, and Ville Blanche, Pondicherry is a tranquil resort in India.
Between 1674, when the French established a trading outpost, and when India got freed from British rule, Pondicherry was stirred around between the French, the British, and Dutch. Presently, the culture of the city bears testament to the past of the French. The delectable dishes served throughout restaurants in Pondicherry are known all over the world. All you need is to pack bags and look through the hotels.
Here are the 10 best restaurants in Pondicherry to spice up your taste & time:
1. Le Rendezvous, Pondicherry
This is an ideal place to be in a cool, and unhurried ambience with numerous choices for food. After the passing of the restaurant owner, this restaurant is run by his wife and daughter. Rendezvous has been designed as a place where people are invited to come with their family, and friends over tempting, and relaxed meals. You would love the ambience, seafood varieties, Jamaican Mojito, and wonderful live music.
Location: Rue Suffren Street, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: French, and Creole
Timings: This restaurant is open between 12 pm to 3:30 pm, and 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm on all days, except on Tuesdays
Cost for one person: INR 600
2. Café dés Arts, Pondicherry
his is one of the most popular restaurants in Pondicherry. The place is known for nice, and comfortable chairs, a blue boho ambience, and an amazing décor. A tiny, yet interesting library with some spectacular conventional French food like French cupcakes is some of the key highlights of this restaurant.
This is the ideal place for brunch. Catch up with friends, or sit and enjoy reading a book. Don’t forget to visit in-house stores that are packed with fabulous merchandise. Café dés Arts are the best French restaurant in Pondicherry. It serves the classics from the nation like a baguette, croissant, croques, ratatouille, crepes, and tartines.
Location: Suffren Street, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: Indian, and French
Timings: The restaurant is open on all days between 8:30 am to 7 pm except Tuesdays
Cost: INR 800
3. Domus, Pondicherry
Domus is an ideal place to spend a laid-back day. It is an all-veg restaurant. You can bundle it up with the mid-vacation cleanse day. The food is prepared to be very tempting, and so there is a possibility that you end up eating more. Some of the interesting highlights of this restaurant are Build Your Own Sandwich, smoothies, and European salad ‘thalis’ and an ideal courtyard café.
Location: Rue Suffren Street, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: French, European
Timings: The restaurant is open between 10:00 am to 6:30 pm on all days
Cost for one person: INR 300
4. Surguru, Pondicherry
Being in India, this is your French Riviera restaurant. It is the culinary jewel of Pondicherry and a key landmark of this place. The place serves mouth-watering South Indian fare. Suguru is considered among the best vegetarian restaurants throughout Pondicherry. It is the best place to dine out in Pondicherry. The restaurant is known for its efficiency and quick value for money. It provides a fabulous experience for people.
Location: Ellaipillaichavady, Pondicherry, and MG Road, Heritage Town, White Town
Specialities: South Indian, North Indian
Timings: This restaurant is open between 6:30 am to 11:00 pm on all days
Cost for one person: INR 400
5. Restaurant Chez Francis, Pondicherry
Restaurant Chez Francis was set up in the 1760s. It is an ancient style French colonial-style restaurant. This is the most preferred restaurant among all exotic places in Pondicherry. This restaurant serves you incredible Creole prawn curry. You will find dinner served in a candle-lit hall in a romantic, and peaceful ambience. So, if you happen to be in Pondicherry, then Restaurant Chez Francis is the ideal place to take your dinner date for a memorable evening.
Location: Rue Romain Rolland Street, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: French, Creole, Indian
Timings: This restaurant is open between11:00 am to 11:00 pm on all days
Cost for one person: INR 1000
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6. Satsanga, Pondicherry
Satsanga is famous for its seafood delicacies, that include honey, ginger prawns, and the popular ratatouille. Stay in the courtyard garden, and you will be fuelled up for the upcoming sightseeing.
Location: La Bourdonnais Street, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: French, Indian and Italian
Timings: This restaurant is open between 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm to 11:30 pm on all days
Cost for one person: INR 500
7. Kasha Ki Aasha, Pondicherry
For a wonderful food experience, Kasha Ki Aasha is the perfect place to visit. It is ideal for starters. An interesting thing about this restaurant is that it is run by a team of girls. You are going to have a great time relishing their awesome cakes, and lunches under shady trees, or lounging on comfortable chairs.
Another interesting part of this café is that it is also a boutique that sells a wide range of handmade products that includes household accessories, clothes, and personal care products. You will also be served with scrumptious organic coffee that will give a perfect end to a memorable meal in Pondicherry!
Location: Rue Surcouf Street, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: European, Fusion, Indian
Timings: This restaurant is open between 9:00 am to 11:00 pm daily
Cost for one person: INR 350
8. Maison Perumal, Pondicherry
This is a very ancient restaurant in Pondicherry. It has been here for 130-years. Chettiar’s mansion was converted into a boutique-style hotel. It is a vivacious amalgamation of the colonial, and vernacular styles of architecture. You can find the vibrancy in the type of food it serves.
Some of the specialities of the restaurant are Vazhapoo Vada that is made from banana flowers, Creole, and seafood dishes such as Sutta Era. The menu served at this restaurant is ed by whatever is available in the town on that particular day. Food is made with local flavours and fresh, and superior quality ingredients.
Location: Perumal Koil Street, Heritage Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: Creole, Chettinad
Timings: This restaurant is open between 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm on all days
Cost for one person: INR 450
9. Gelateria Montecatini Terme, Pondicherry
If you wish for a little bit of Italian touch in French Pondicherry, then Gelateria Montecatini Terme is the ideal place for some swirly, gooey, jewel-hued gelato that is made up in the traditional way. It is purely made up of milk, with added fresh fruits, and no preservatives. Though there are several restaurants in Pondicherry that serve Gelato, you will get the best quality of it at GMT.
Try their distinctive flavour gelatos such as vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, or the tropical delight that is made up of jackfruit, guava, and pineapple. The decadent custard cream gelato is to die for.
Location: Goubert Avenue, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: Desserts
Timings: This restaurant is open between11:00 am to 11:00 pm on all days
Cost for one person: INR 75
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10. Bay of Buddha, Pondicherry
If you love non-veg food, then you should visit the Bay of Buddha. It is considered to be one of the top non-vegetarian restaurants in the whole Pondicherry. This place is famous for offering fragrant Asian dishes. It is a rooftop restaurant that gives an enchanting view of the Bay of Bengal, along with top-class vegetarian options.
People who are fond of seafood should definitely try their Thai-banana leaf-draped snappers, prawn crackers, and a lot more. If you are visiting this restaurant, you must visit the al-fresco bar that lies near Promenade Beach, even if you are on a short sojourn.
Location: Goubert Avenue, White Town, Pondicherry
Specialities: Pan Asian
Timings: This restaurant is open between 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm daily
Cost for one person: INR 750
Did you like this list? You can even add Ada few of your favourite restaurants in Pondicherry to this list.
Also, look into visiting the other state restaurants:
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- Dehradun Best Places to Eat in Restaurant
- Best Restaurants in Agra, Near Taj Mahal
- Top 10 Restaurants in Lucknow
- 8 Best Rooftop Restaurants in Jaipur
- Seafood Restaurants in India
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best beachside restaurants in Pondicherry?
Some of the best beachside restaurants in Pondicherry include Bay of Buddha, Le Café, and The Promenade. These places offer stunning views of the sea along with delicious food.
2. Where can I find the best French food in Pondicherry?
For authentic French cuisine, try Café des Arts, Villa Shanti, and Le Dupleix. These restaurants are located in the French Quarter (White Town) and offer a true taste of French culture.
3. What are the top restaurants in White Town, Pondicherry?
Top restaurants in White Town include Villa Shanti, Coromandel Café, and Café des Arts. These places are known for their ambiance, a mix of Indian and French dishes, and a charming atmosphere.
4. Where can I have the best non-veg food in Pondicherry?
For the best non-veg food, visit Theevu Plage, Appachi Chettinad, and Satsanga. These restaurants are known for their flavorful non-vegetarian dishes, including seafood and traditional Chettinad cuisine.
5. Are there any rooftop restaurants in Pondicherry?
Yes, rooftop restaurants like Lighthouse Rooftop Grill and Bay of Buddha offer great views along with a memorable dining experience. These are perfect for enjoying a meal with a view of the ocean or the city.
6. What is the best place for a romantic dinner in Pondicherry?
For a romantic dinner, Bay of Buddha and Villa Shanti are excellent choices. Both offer intimate settings, delicious food, and a relaxing atmosphere perfect for couples.
7. Where can I find affordable and good-quality food in Pondicherry?
For affordable dining, try Surguru for South Indian vegetarian food, or Café Xtasi for wood-fired pizzas. These places are popular for their great food at reasonable prices.
8. What are the must-try foods in Pondicherry?
Must-try foods in Pondicherry include French pastries, seafood dishes, and traditional Tamil cuisine. Don’t miss out on tasting Pondicherry’s famous French-inspired dishes like croissants and coq au vin.
9. Are there any good vegetarian restaurants in Pondicherry?
Yes, Surguru is a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its South Indian thalis and dosas. Another great option is La Casita, which offers a mix of Indian and continental vegetarian dishes.
10. What are the best places to eat in Pondicherry for a unique dining experience?
For a unique dining experience, visit The Promenade’s Lighthouse Rooftop Grill for seafood by the sea, or Theevu Plage, which is known for its beach shack vibes and fresh catch of the day.
