The tagline used by The Tourism Department of Pondicherry defines the vibe of the city most appropriately—“give time a break”. A French colonial settlement till 1954, the city has retained its old-world charm even today, and is a favourite among tourists for its pristine beaches and cultural heritage sites. Over the years, Pondicherry has become home to a number of quaint cafes and restaurants, many on rooftops or with shaded patios, so tourists and locals alike can bask in the sun as they enjoy their meals. Ahead Vogue rounds up the best restaurants you must visit if you’re planning a trip.
Tanto Pizzeria
Established in 2008 by Daniel Emdin, Tantos is the place to go to if you’re craving a pizza in Pondicherry. The menu is filled with dishes created with the Emdin’s mother’s recipes, and the kitchen uses fresh vegetables organically grown at his farm in Auroville. The farm-to-fork eatery offers 28 different kinds of wood-fired pizzas that will have you smacking your lips in anticipation even before they reach your table, and their homemade iced tea is a must-try too.
Address: 29, Diagou Mudaliar Street, Pondicherry
La Creperie
Most of us think of crepes as a sweet dessert that’s best served with ladles of Nutella and a few banana slices. But there’s a lot more to the dish, and La Creperie will prove it to you. The eatery serves a variety of savoury crepes that’ll let you choose between combinations of ham and cheese, and pesto and tomato. Another highly recommended dish is the Supreme Crêpe, which is made with chicken, spinach and a runny fried egg, and comes doused in cream cheese. Want something sweet? Don’t forget to order for the Crêpe Suzette.
Address: No. 56A, Rue, Romain Rolland St, Pondicherry
Appachi
Established in 2001, Appachi is one of the most sought-after restaurants in the city. The menu is inspired by traditional Chettinad cuisine, and you can’t leave Pondicherry without trying it. Place an order for their Chicken 65, Chicken Curry and Chicken Chettinad, and wash it down with their Egg Appams and Parothas when you visit.
Address: Old No 9 and New No 11, Rangapillai Street, Pondicherry
Villa Shanti
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If you’re looking for a spot to relax with your friends over an afternoon, Villa Shanti is where you need to go. The space is divided into two parts, the open patio and the vertical garden, located in the older corner of the building. And the cafe offers cuisine from all over the country, including your favourite continental fare. Start off with their Spinach and Roasted Apple Salad (spinach, roasted apple, almonds, sesame seeds, corn, with ginger honey dressing), and their Prawn and Pomelo Salad (steamed prawns, pomelo, roasted peanuts, shallots, coriander leaves with tamarind and palm sugar dressing), before moving on to the Patrani Slipper Lobster (Parsi-style lobster marinated with Indian spices and wrapped with banana leaves served with yellow or black dal and a roti). To end your meal, the Chef’s Crumble (apple on a shortbread cookie, salted butter caramel, topped with vanilla ice cream) is a sure win.
Address: Villa Shanti, 14, Suffren Street, White Town, Pondicherry
Le Dupleix
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Set in an 18th century home located at the heart of Pondicherry’s historic White Town, Le Dupleix is a mix of elegance, sophistication and modernity. The menu features dishes with both French and Indian fusion elements, like the Poricha Kozhi (deep-fried chicken marinated with local spices), the Tawa Fried Fish (Indian spiced red mullet fish, served with lemon mashed potatoes and mixed lettuce) and the Rasam aux Crevettes (traditional South Indian spiced soup with coconut milk and shrimps).
Address: 5, Rue De La Caserne, White Town, Pondicherry
Cafe Des Arts
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One of the city’s favourite breakfast spots, Cafe Des Arts features chic yellow walls and graffiti art, and has plenty of vintage objects scattered around. Not only is it a great backdrop for your Instagram pictures, it also serves some of the best dishes you will taste in Pondicherry. Our recommendations? The Croque-Monseiur Ham and Cheese Sandwich, the Baguette Bacon amd Egg Sandwich and the Café Gourmand.
Address: 10, Suffren St, White Town, Pondicherry
Theevu Plage
You may have to drive just out of Pondicherry for this one, but you don’t want to miss it if you’re around. In fact, if you’re shutting shuttling between Pondicherry and Auroville, this is the ideal stopover for a quick lunch. Their seafood is an absolute delight, so make sure you place an order for their Mahi Mahi Fish Fillet, the Grilled Pomfret and Butterflied Prawns with Butter.
Address: Theevu Plage Beach Resort, Kottakuppam, Tamil Nadu
La Maison Rose
A quaint, picturesque courtyard restaurant, La Maison Rose serves continental cuisine and is great place to have coffee and escape from the world. Try the Chicken Milanaise, the Smoked Tofu Burger here, and order the Fresh Lime Mousse, which is topped with guava compote, for dessert.
Address: 8, Romain Rolland St, White Town, Pondicherry
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