Top 5 Places to Eat in Madurai

Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Rahul Sharma
11/08/2025
Vibrant facade of Meenakshi Temple's gopura in Madurai, India, showcasing intricate Hindu art.
Sharath G., Pexels

Madurai's dining scene is a vibrant fusion of traditional South Indian flavors and diverse culinary influences, offering a wide array of authentic experiences from street-side delights to comfortable dining.

1. Murugan Idli Shop

Cuisine: Traditional South Indian Vegetarian

Known for its iconic 'mallipoo' (jasmine-soft) idlis, which are exceptionally soft and melt in the mouth. These fluffy steamed rice cakes are served traditionally on a banana leaf, accompanied by an assortment of freshly ground chutneys and sambar. A must-try is also their filter coffee to conclude the meal. Expect a bustling atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

Price: Approximately INR 400 for two people (around $5 USD).

Getting There: With multiple outlets across Madurai, the branch at 46, Thalavoy Street, Madurai Main, Madurai, is a popular choice. It is centrally located, often within walking distance or a short auto-rickshaw ride from major attractions, though parking can be challenging.

2. Konar Mess

Cuisine: Authentic Non-Vegetarian (Mutton Specialties)

This legendary eatery is celebrated for its distinctive non-vegetarian fare, particularly the Kari Dosa. This unique triple-layered dosa features a base dosa, topped with an omelette, and finished with a rich layer of spiced minced mutton. Other traditional delights include Elumbu Roast (mutton bone roast). The atmosphere is typically local and unpretentious, reflecting its 'mess' style origins, where food is often best enjoyed with hands.

Price: Approximately INR 400 for two people (around $5 USD).

Getting There: Located at 79, N Veli Street, Arajar Salai, Simmakkal, Konar Mess is easily accessible by auto-rickshaw from most parts of the city.

3. Amma Mess

Cuisine: Chettinad Non-Vegetarian

A renowned name in Madurai, Amma Mess specializes in flavorful Chettinad non-vegetarian dishes. Their menu features a wide array of mutton preparations, including the popular Kola Urundai (mutton balls) and Crab Omelette, alongside various non-vegetarian meals served on banana leaves. While historically acclaimed, some recent visitor experiences highlight it can be very crowded and that the food quality, while still good, may vary relative to its high reputation.

Price: Moderate, approximately INR 130 per person for meals, with total costs varying depending on additional dishes.

Getting There: Found on 136, Alagar Kovil Main Road, Tallakulam, it is reachable by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

4. Zaitoon Restaurant

Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean

Offering a more diverse dining experience, Zaitoon Restaurant provides a sophisticated yet casual ambiance. It is well-regarded for its grilled and BBQ dishes, along with its Mutton Dum Biryani, which stands out for its unique flavor. The comprehensive menu includes a selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. The service is professional, making it suitable for those seeking a comfortable setting beyond traditional Madurai 'messes'.

Price: Moderate to expensive, from INR 300 onwards for two people (around $3.5 USD onwards).

Getting There: Situated on 80 Feet Road, New LIG Colony, Anna Nagar, it is best reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw.

5. Famous Jigarthanda

Cuisine: Traditional Cold Beverage/Dessert

This iconic spot is a must-visit for its signature drink, 'Jigarthanda,' which translates to 'cool heart.' It is a refreshing local specialty made from milk, almond gum (china grass), sarsaparilla root syrup, and often topped with a scoop of ice cream. It serves as a perfect respite from Madurai's heat and is a nostalgic favorite for locals, with its origins tracing back to 1977.

Price: Very affordable, typically less than INR 100 per glass (under $1 USD).

Getting There: The original Madurai Famous Jigarthanda LLP has multiple outlets, including a well-known one in Villakuttoon. It can also be found at various street carts around the city.

Check out our other pages on Madurai

Things to Do icon Things to Do Getting There icon Getting There Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays