CHENNAI: If you wish to relish on the authentic and varied South Indian cuisine in all its sapidity, Southern Aromas at the Residency Towers is the place to be. With Mainstreet and The Crown taking up a unique decor, The Residency Towers promises the hardcore South Indian a traditional Chettinadu house, in-built with huge pillars and terracotta ceiling adding up to the overall feel of a heritage home.
It’s interesting to note the fine detailing in decor, ambience and food presentation that make you feel at home. The lunch is generally served on a banana leaf along with silver spoons and bowls. The manager informs us that soft music played live by popular musicians was a regular dinner accompaniment.
The buffet is simple and has an assortment of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delecacies. For strict vegetarians, Southern Aromas serves the best of the lot, with each item coming with a unique taste. Besides, there is a mini kitchen next to the service area, which serves hot aapams and dosas — a perfect start to the meal.
Dressed in ethnic wear, the waiters start serving us with the Vazhaipoo vada, Malli vada and Cholam somas. The Vazhaipoo vada deviates from the usual vada in shape and gustation. It is peppery and gingery in taste. Solam somas is something you wouldn’t want to miss out on. It comes with a filling that has both sweet and spicy ingredients with a bit of ginger lingering on your tongue.
The main course is served with an array of vegetarian dishes which are quite palatable. Starting with a welcome drink to Mangai Kozhambu, the taste of the food is authentic and brings out the flavours of the four states - Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Karnataka.
For the non-vegetarians, the prawn curry is a delicacy and is had best with aapam and steamed rice. The aroma of Meen Pollichadu makes you heady and the taste is even better. The gently wrapped fish in banana leaves is well marinated and tastes yummy.
A flavorful way to end the meal is the Ilaneer Payasam which has tiny cubes of tender coconut and tastes just right. Overall, it’s an authentic meal with a traditonal touch.