Beach resorts, star hotels in Chennai gear up to offer farmer’s feast
Star hotels and beach resorts in and near Chennai are gearing up to offer a great meal –Uzhavar Virundhu or farmer’s feast experience for their guests during the Pongal festival.
Pongal is Tamil Nadu’s harvest festival celebrated over four days.
The Navaratna restaurant in the five-star Le Royal Meridien hotel in Chennai will offer a lavish feast of authentic delicacies of Tamil Nadu on banana leaf.
From flavorful Pongal varieties to an array of traditional dishes, like Ven Pongal, Sakara Pongal, Kambu Pongal, Kai Kari Thenga Pirattal, Manjapoosinikkai Thokku, Pachasundakkai Kara Kuzhambu, Adrassam, Aval Payasam, Karumbu, every bite promises the rich taste of tradition.
To make your experience unforgettable, the event features exciting Pongal games, stunning themed décor, and staff adorned in elegant traditional attire, bringing the festive spirit alive.
The farmer’s feast will be available at Navratna between Jan 14-19 priced at Rs.1,195 plus taxes.
The Sangamithirai restaurant at the five-star property Feathers Hotel will serve the Uzhavar Virundhu on Jan 15 and 16 priced at Rs.2,500 plus taxes for vegetarians and Rs.3,000 plus taxes for non-vegetarians.
The restaurant chefs have curated a special menu highlighting the essence of Tamil cuisine.
The Uzhavar Virundhu will feature an elaborate spread of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies, carefully prepared using traditional ingredients and recipes that have been passed down through generations.
One can savor the hearty flavors of classic dishes like Thuthuvalai Malai Poondu Charu, Paal Katti Kuchi Kallu Varuval, Maravalli Kizhangu Dhul Mass, Elaneer Rasam, Simmakkal Munthiri Malli Briyani, Vellattu Kothu kari Charu, Sutta Kozhi Perattal, Vanjaram Meen Vazhai Ilai Pollichathu, Aachi Vathumuttai Kallu Roast and an array of delectable sides, traditional desserts such as Kambu Laddu and Kirni Palpayasam.
Each bite will tell a story of the harvest, the land, and the people who nurture it.
On the other hand, beach resort Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa, Mahabalipuram at its The Reef outlet will offer a Thai Pongal-themed brunch buffet on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM.
The brunch will feature six varieties of traditional Pongal, embodying the spirit of gratitude and abundance synonymous with the festival.
Guests will be welcomed with refreshing Pannakam, a traditional spiced jaggery drink, to set the festive tone. The guests can also indulge in:
Pongal Kaaikari Kuzhambu: A flavorful preparation made with seven seasonal vegetables, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
Thanjavur Kuchi Kizhangu Vathakkal: Local tapioca sautéed with red chilies and spices for a perfect blend of heat and earthiness.
Steamed Ponni Rice: A staple accompaniment that pairs beautifully with festive dishes.
The celebration will also feature live music and a traditional décor setup to immerse guests in the joyous atmosphere of Pongal. It’s a perfect occasion to gather with family and friends, relish authentic flavors, and experience the vibrant culture of Tamil Nadu.
The brunch is priced at Rs.2,599 plus taxes.
(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be reached at venkatacharijagannathan@gmail.com)
