Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel, Chennai Hosts Traditional Pongal Virundhu

Chennai: Southern Spice, the award-winning South Indian speciality restaurant at Taj Coromandel, Chennai, is set to celebrate the harvest festival of Pongal with a specially curated Pongal Virundhu from January 14 to 18, 2026.

Pongal, one of Tamil Nadu’s most significant festivals, marks the harvest season and the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai. Reflecting the spirit of gratitude, tradition, and community, Southern Spice’s festive menu pays homage to age-old culinary practices through authentic flavours and regional recipes.

Curated by the culinary team led by Executive Chef Vikas Milhoutra, the Pongal Virundhu features traditional delicacies such as Kalkandu Pongal, Athirasam, and Kai Murukku, alongside a distinctive Vadu Mangai Stuffed Kuzhi Paniyaram, offering a regional twist to festive favourites. The spread also includes Nattu Kai Sambar, Padaipu Kozhambu, and Beans and Carrot Paruppu Usili, showcasing rustic flavours rooted in Tamil culinary heritage.

The festive meal is complemented by traditional beverages including a tender coconut mocktail, Nannari Sherbet, and spiced buttermilk, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Recognised among India’s Top 50 Restaurants by Condé Nast Traveller India, Southern Spice is renowned for its authentic South Indian cuisine spanning the four southern states. The restaurant’s ambience draws inspiration from Chola, Pallava, and Pandya temple architecture, adding cultural depth to the dining experience.

The Pongal Virundhu will be available for lunch and dinner on an à la carte basis, priced at INR 2,500 onwards plus taxes per person.

Venue: Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel, Chennai
Dates: January 14–18, 2026
Reservations: +91 44 6600 2827 / +91 78248 62310