Chennai's Ramzan Streets Burst with Vibrant Iftar Food Markets and Festive Spirit
As the clock nears 6 PM, the streets of Chennai come alive with a vibrant energy, echoing a tradition observed every year during the holy month of Ramzan. Across the city, bustling food markets spring to life, filling the air with irresistible fragrances that signal the time for Iftar—the evening meal to break the daily fast. This annual phenomenon not only unites diverse communities in celebration of fasting and feasting but also offers a rare opportunity to indulge in sinful delicacies crafted exclusively for this festive season.
Mannady Street: A Culinary Extravaganza
Mannady Street stands out as a premier destination, though it can be a bit steep on the pocket. The key to enjoying this hotspot is arriving early. Shops typically begin their cooking preparations by 4:30 PM, with crowds starting to gather by 6 PM. By 7 PM, the entire lane is adorned with twinkling lights and resonates with festive chatter, drawing a sea of people united by their love for food.
The sheer variety of street food here is mind-blowing. From special Irani tandoori chicken and bun shawarma at pioneer eateries like Hatimy's and Firdaus to an array of colorful chicken items including crispy chicken, candy chicken, chicken pizza roll, kurkure chicken, and chicken kebab sticks. Spicy prawn cutlets are a hot favorite among visitors.
M K Shafeeq, who frequents the area with his family, shares, "We love cool drinks and desserts at the end. My kids adore badam milk, egg pudding, and fruit custard. The best is undoubtedly the Mohabbat-ka-sherbet."
Triplicane: A Hub of Traditional Delights
Along Triplicane main road, makeshift carts line up, offering an assortment of chicken, mutton, and beef delicacies ranging from kebabs to biryani during the Ramzan season. At the junction leading to the Big Mosque, Tamannah Biwi serves piping hot chicken cutlets, crisp and fresh, priced at four for just Rs 20.
Adjacent to her, Kaniammal sells vibrant green, white, pink, and yellow sherbets, each priced at Rs 25. She explains, "All are made with fresh milk and soaked chia seeds. People increasingly seek healthy food and drinks after breaking their fast these days."
A few feet away, crowds gather around a cart where mutton samosas are being fried. Wahid, the stall owner, notes, "We have been setting up this stall every year for a decade. Ramzan has just begun, but sales have picked up, thanks to Allah. People exit the mosque and flock to my shop." He generously offers complimentary samosas to visitors.
Royapettah: The Haleem Haven
Royapettah is renowned for its haleem, a delicacy typically available only during this time of year. Peters Road is dotted with numerous haleem joints, both big and small. A charming cart named 'Mazedaar Haleem,' adorned with fairy lights near New College, attracts a steady stream of customers.
Mohammad Ali, owner-partner, reveals, "We launched this Ramzan and are already selling well. Haleem boxes range from Rs 110 to Rs 850. Besides haleem, our cheesecake has also gained popularity. We operate from 3:30 PM to around 9:30 PM."
Fisherman's Signature: A Citywide Favorite
Fisherman's Signature is the biggest draw for haleem enthusiasts across Chennai. While its main branch is in Egmore, people of all religions gather at various branches to savor this seasonal dish. The makeshift eating spaces are packed with customers, some even standing to enjoy their favorite meal.
Haleem specialist cooks Sheikh Riaz and MD Aamir have been specially brought from Hyderabad for the season. Riaz states, "We sell nearly 250 kg of haleem daily at just one branch, increasing to 300 kg on Sundays. We have been known for our haleem in Chennai for the last 22 years." Aamir adds that the shop remains bustling with customers until 11 PM.
This annual culinary celebration not only highlights Chennai's rich food culture but also fosters community spirit, making Ramzan a truly special time in the city.
