Southern Spice hosts Puthandu feast at Taj Coromandel in Chennai with traditional Tamil New Year menu

Southern Spice restaurant at Taj Coromandel hosted a Puthandu feast in Chennai in April 2026 to mark the Tamil New Year, the hotel said, offering a curated menu of traditional dishes prepared to reflect regional culinary practices and seasonal ingredients associated with the festival.

Event held to mark Tamil New Year

The Puthandu feast was organized at the Taj Coromandel property in Chennai, where Southern Spice serves South Indian cuisine. The event coincided with the Tamil New Year celebrations, which are observed across Tamil Nadu with traditional meals and rituals.

The hotel said the feast was designed to align with customary practices associated with the festival, including the preparation and presentation of dishes typically served during Puthandu celebrations.

Menu featured traditional dishes

The curated menu included a range of vegetarian dishes commonly associated with Tamil New Year meals. These included preparations made using seasonal vegetables, lentils and rice-based items, served in a structured sequence.

According to the hotel, the menu also incorporated elements of the traditional festive thali, which includes a balance of sweet, sour, bitter and savory flavors, reflecting customary culinary practices followed during the occasion.

Focus on regional culinary practices

Southern Spice said the event focused on presenting authentic regional cuisine, with dishes prepared using traditional methods and ingredients sourced in line with established recipes. The kitchen team followed standard preparation techniques to maintain consistency in flavor and presentation.

The hotel added that the initiative was part of its efforts to highlight regional food traditions through curated dining experiences tied to cultural events and festivals.

Guest participation and service format

The feast was offered to guests dining at the restaurant during the event period, with meals served in a format consistent with traditional festive dining practices. Staff coordinated service to ensure timely presentation of dishes in accordance with the sequence of the meal.

Officials said the event attracted both local residents and hotel guests, with advance reservations recommended due to expected demand during the festival period.

Integration with hotel operations

Taj Coromandel said such themed dining events are integrated into its operational calendar, particularly during major regional festivals. The hotel organizes similar initiatives throughout the year to align with cultural and seasonal occasions.

The property operates multiple food and beverage outlets, with Southern Spice focusing on South Indian cuisine as part of its restaurant portfolio.

Current status

As of April 2026, the Puthandu feast at Southern Spice has been conducted as part of the Tamil New Year celebrations, with the hotel continuing regular dining operations following the event.