The Chennai Kitchen; Madras Pavilion at ITC Gardenia

Written by Tim Blight

Writer, traveller, amateur photographer, teacher. Based in Melbourne and Lahore.

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March 23, 2014

Madras Pavilion (Image: ITC Hotels)

Madras Pavilion

The Madras Pavilion in Chennai was a welcome addition to Chennai’s buffet food scene when it opened in late 2012; a range of food from across India, and pleasant, posh, contemporary (but not stuffy) surroundings.

Dum Biryani at the Madras Pavilion

On offer are northern favourites like real dum biryani and palak gosht, a handful of western continental options like ravioli and grilled chicken, and one or two okay Asian dishes. What’s great about this place is the availability of meat for us carnivores, especially in the southern metropolis. Non-meat eaters aren’t left wanting however, with a tasty collection of vegetarian options both Indian and continental.

The Penta Kitchen bar is a highlight, celebrating the cuisine of the five southern states (Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Andhra Pradesh and of course Tamil Nadu). Chettinad Chicken was available each time we visited, along with interesting prawn dishes from the west coast, and beef choices from Goa.

Bread Station at Madras Pavilion (Image: Zomato, Khishore Selvanathan)

Last but not least of course is dessert, and the small but diverse dessert bar is laden with chocolate brownies, mousse, pannacotta and fruity concoctions – the perfect end. Like with all buffets, the Madras Pavilion is about choices, and choices it provides!