Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a lovely coastal city in India that blends French and Tamil culture, architecture, and cuisine.
We recently visited and fell in love with its charm. Walking through its streets, we soaked up the mix of French and Tamil cultures and savored the delicious food, from seafood to pastries and traditional Tamil dishes. Our beachside experience was unforgettable, as we discovered some hidden culinary treasures that we can’t wait to share with you.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a tasty meal with a beautiful view of the sea, here are some of the best restaurants in Pondicherry near the beach that you shouldn’t miss.
Best Restaurants in Pondicherry Near the Beach
1. Baker Street
Baker Street is a French bakery established in 2008 in Pondicherry. It operates two shops, one on Bussy Street and another on Beach Road.
Specializing in French, Café, and European cuisines, it offers a variety of items such as croissants, pain au chocolat, éclairs, baguettes, sandwiches, and more. While Baker Street serves breakfast, lunch, and brunch, it’s not ideal for dinner as it closes a bit early.
The breakfast and lunch at Baker Street are known for their mouth-watering taste, featuring French delicacies, bread, cheese, chocolates, and other French items. Additionally, the bakery offers cakes, pastries, and ice creams for those with a sweet tooth.
Moreover, renowned for its coffee, Baker Street is a perfect spot for a coffee date or to spend quality time with your loved ones. Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a leisurely breakfast, Baker Street is an excellent choice.
| Baker Street | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | No 123 Rue Bussy Street, Pondicherry 605001 India |
| Contact Number | +919944850001, +914134901333 |
| Opening Hours | 7 am – 9:30 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.0 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹400 |
Our Experience: Walking into Baker Street felt like stepping into a cozy French bakery. The smell of freshly baked croissants and pastries made our mouths water. The croissants were buttery and flaky, and the chocolates were divine. It was like a little slice of Paris right in Pondicherry.
2. Finz by Club Mahindra Puducherry
Finz by Club Mahindra Puducherry is a seafood restaurant located within the Club Mahindra resort in Valluvar Medu, Bahour, approximately 9 km away from the town.
Despite the distance, the restaurant’s outstanding food and scenic view make it worth the drive. One of the highlights of dining here is the opportunity to listen to the waves crashing nearby under the moonlight.
Specializing in fresh and grilled seafood, as well as Indian and continental dishes, Finz offers a diverse menu to cater to various tastes.
Guests have the option to dine in the open-air terrace overlooking the pool and the sea, or in the indoor dining hall with a live kitchen.
In addition, Finz also caters to specific dietary preferences, offering options suitable for vegetarians and those requiring gluten-free meals.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or have dietary restrictions, Finz Café is an excellent choice for a memorable dining experience.
| Finz | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | R.S. 200/201, Club Mahindra, Valluvar Medu, Manapattu Village, Murangapakkam, Puducherry |
| Contact Number | +91 95798 13857 |
| Opening Hours | 7:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Google Rating | 5.0 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹2,200 |
Our Experience: At Finz, my friends and I were mesmerized by the stunning sea view. We opted for grilled seafood and were absolutely delighted. The prawns were succulent, and the sea bass was perfectly cooked. Dining under the stars made the experience even more special. The ambiance was amazing, making it feel like a hidden paradise. The seafood was incredibly fresh and tasty, making Finz a must-visit. The only drawback was that it closes around 10:30 PM. The vibes are so good that we wanted to stay longer and order more, but unfortunately, we had to leave.
3. Bay of Buddha
Bay of Buddha is a rooftop restaurant situated on the eighth floor of The Promenade hotel, located on Beach Road. Boasting a breathtaking view of the sea and the promenade, it offers a fusion of Asian cuisines.
From dim sum and sushi to noodles and curries, the menu features a diverse array of dishes. Notably, the restaurant specializes in Chinese, seafood, Asian, Thai, and vegan options.
Additionally, Bay of Buddha houses a bar serving a selection of cocktails, mocktails, and wines, enhancing the dining experience. With its picturesque setting and diverse menu, it’s an ideal spot for enjoying a romantic dinner or savoring a sunset drink.
| Bay of Buddha | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Old Lighthouse, 23, Goubert Ave, White Town, Puducherry, 605001, India |
| Contact Number | +91 413 222 7750 |
| Opening Hours | 6:30 am – 10:30 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.1 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹2,200 |
Our Experience: The Bay of Buddha offers a stunning panoramic view of the coast. We ordered the spicy Thai curry, which was a highlight dish, bursting with flavor. After enjoying that, we also ordered dim sum and sushi. The dim sum was delicious, but we didn’t care much for the sushi. It is quite expensive, so if you’re looking for a budget-friendly place, this might not be ideal. However, the beautiful view and prime location make it a memorable dining experience.
4. Theevu Plage
Theevu Plage is a beachside restaurant situated in Chunnambar, approximately 8 km from the town. Accessible by a boat ride from the Chunnambar boathouse, it offers a unique and serene dining experience.
The restaurant’s ambiance exudes a vibrant vibe, featuring an open area with a stunning beach view, making it a beautiful place to unwind.
Specializing in European and Indian cuisines, Theevu Plage primarily focuses on seafood, offering a variety of delectable dishes.
In addition to dining, guests can partake in various beach activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing, enhancing the overall experience of visiting the restaurant.
Theevu Plage is a hidden gem that offers a serene and scenic escape from the city.
| Theevu Plage | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Kottakuppam Serenity Beach, Pondicherry 605003 India |
| Contact Number | +91 96007 77038 |
| Opening Hours | 8 AM–9:30 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.1 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹800 |
Our Experience: To reach Theevu Plage, you need to take a boat ride of 8 km, which feels like an adventure. Once we arrived, we found the ambiance exudes a vibrant vibe. As for the food, we ordered seafood pasta and seafood biryani, which tasted nice but weren’t anything special. However, the chicken tikka we ordered afterward was amazing. The menu also has many varieties for vegetarians. Everything is quite expensive here, but the adventure ride makes it all worth it.
5. Palais de Mahe
Palais de Mahe is a restaurant nestled within the Palais de Mahe hotel in White Town, housed in a heritage building showcasing French colonial architecture.
This establishment offers a blend of Indian and international cuisines infused with local flavors, providing a unique culinary experience.
Guests have the option to dine in either the elegant indoor space or the charming courtyard by the pool, where they can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even after-hours snacks.
Palais de Mahe not only offers a taste of Pondicherry’s culture and history but also provides a comfortable seating area, courteous staff, tasteful decor, and generous portions.
Furthermore, the restaurant caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian-friendly, vegan options, and gluten-free choices. With a diverse menu featuring international and Indian dishes, Palais de Mahe promises to tantalize your taste buds with flavors from around the world.
| Theevu Plage | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Bussy St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 |
| Contact Number | 075940 12555 |
| Opening Hours | 7:30 AM–10:30 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.4 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹1600 |
Our Experience: Palais de Mahe is great for a romantic dinner. One couple in our group tried it and loved the elegant, candlelit setting by the pool. They ordered cumin custard chicken. At first, they thought it was pricey, but the big portion and delicious taste made it worth it. They also had dessert, which was amazing too.
6. Le Dupleix Restaurant
Le Dupleix Restaurant, situated within the Le Dupleix hotel in White Town, occupies a heritage building once home to the French governor Joseph Francois Dupleix.
Offering perfect fine dining with a touch of organic food, the restaurant specializes in French, Continental, and Historical Creole cuisines.
Combining elements of French and Indian culinary traditions, Le Dupleix Restaurant presents a fusion menu featuring dishes such as crepes, biryani, kebabs, and more.
Some of their popular offerings include Crab Cakes, Goan Prawn Curry, Lobster, Bacon, Mushroom Soup, and Mashed Potatoes.
With a cozy and classy ambiance, the restaurant provides both indoor and outdoor seating options, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Guests can enjoy live music while savoring the restaurant’s high-quality cuisine.
| Le Dupleix | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 7, Casern St, White Town, Puducherry, 605001 |
| Contact Number | 0413 222 6001 |
| Opening Hours | 8 AM–9:30 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.2 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹1600 |
Our Experience: Le Dupleix Restaurant is perfect if your group includes non-drinkers too. They offer a variety of drinks and food. Dining here felt like stepping back in time. We enjoyed the historical ambiance while savoring dishes like crab cakes and Goan prawn curry. The live music added to the charm. Our friends had drinks and loved the overall experience.
7. Cafe Xtasi
If you’re a pizza lover, then Cafe Xtasi is the perfect place for you. It is situated on Mission Street, near the Aurobindo Ashram.
Renowned for its wood-fired pizzas available in various sizes and toppings, it also offers a diverse menu featuring salads, sandwiches, burgers, and pasta.
Among its extensive offerings, some of the most popular dishes include Garlic Bread with Cheese, Berry Smoothie, Tandoori Pizza, Burgers, Pasta, and Salad.
The cafe boasts a casual and lively atmosphere, complete with a spacious seating area and a live music stage, adding to the overall experience.
For those watching their budget, Cafe Xtasi is cost-effective, with an average cost of around ₹400 for two people, ensuring you can enjoy your meal without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a pizza lover or simply seeking a vibrant dining experience, Cafe Xtasi is a must-visit destination.
| Cafe Xtasi | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 245 R D Mission Street Near Surguru, Kurichchikuppam, Pondicherry 605001 India |
| Contact Number | +91 99947 00098 |
| Opening Hours | 11:00 AM–11:00 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.0 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹400 |
Our Experience: As pizza lovers, we always seek out the best pizza in every city. A local suggested we try Cafe Xtasi, and after checking the reviews, we decided to go. We ordered the Xtasi pizza, and it was amazing! The unique twist in flavors was irresistible. I must say, it can even beat Domino’s!
8. Crepe in Touch
Crepe in Touch is a creperie located on Needarajapayer Street, between MG Road and Mission Street. It specializes in authentic French crepes, both sweet and savory, alongside coffee, tea, and juices.
The crepes are freshly made with quality ingredients, and served hot and crispy. The creperie boasts a quaint and colorful decor, with a small seating area.
In addition to their signature crepes, the menu also features Italian, Pizza, Fast food, and International dishes. Some of the most popular items include Sauteed Mushrooms, Savoury Crepe, Sweet Crepe, Masala Tea, and Salad. Customer reviews often highlight the value for money offered by this establishment.
Crepe in Touch is an ideal spot to indulge in French delicacies, and it’s also suitable for family outings.
| Crepe in Touch | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 29, Needarajapaiyer St, MG Road Area, Puducherry, 605001 |
| Contact Number | 096200 89520 |
| Opening Hours | 11:00 AM–11:00 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.3 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹800 |
Our Experience: Crepe in Touch charmed us with its cozy ambiance and delicious French crepes. From savory to sweet, each crepe looked like a work of art in the reviews and online photos. Although we didn’t get a chance to visit, it’s considered one of the best places to go for crepes in Pondicherry.
9. Le Cafe
Le Cafe is a popular cafe situated on Beach Road, near the Gandhi Statue, offering a diverse selection of snacks, beverages, and desserts.
Operating 24 hours a day, it provides both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy either the cozy interior or the panoramic view of the Bay of Bengal.
The cafe, housed in a heritage building that formerly served as the port office of Pondicherry, adds to its charm and historical significance.
While the cafe’s ambiance and location are praised, some customers have noted shortcomings in service speed and food quality.
Despite these drawbacks, Le Cafe remains an ideal destination for those seeking a delightful coffee experience in a pleasant setting.
Its assortment of coffees, beverages, and sandwiches can certainly brighten up your day, offering a range of options to suit various tastes and preferences.
| Le Cafe | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 23, Beach Rd, White Town, Puducherry, 605001, India |
| Contact Number | +914132334949 |
| Opening Hours | 24/7 |
| Google Rating | 3.8 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹900 |
Our Experience: Le Cafe has a beautiful view of the Bay of Bengal, but the food was just okay. The hot coffee was nice, though, especially while watching the waves. It’s open 24/7, which is handy, but overall, it didn’t leave a strong impression.
10. Hook Lounge
Hook Lounge is a casual dining restaurant and bar situated in Heritage Town, Puducherry.
It caters to a range of tastes with its diverse menu featuring North Indian, Continental, Chinese, and seafood cuisines. With its stunning sea view and rooftop pub, it’s a favored destination for parties and hangouts.
Some of the standout items on its menu include Fish Manchurian, Chilli Fish, Schezwan Squid, Fish Tikka, and Dragon Prawn.
This establishment offers a unique combination of restaurant and bar services, allowing patrons to enjoy dinner accompanied by drinks in a lively atmosphere.
| Hook Lounge | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | HOOK LOUNGE ,52/A, GOUBERT AVENUE, Beach Rd, Puducherry, 605001 |
| Contact Number | 076392 17861 |
| Opening Hours | 12:30–11:30 pm |
| Google Rating | 4.5 |
| Average Cost (for two people) | ₹1000 |
Our Experince: Hook Lounge seemed lively with its sea view, but unfortunately, we couldn’t make it due to time constraints. We’ve heard the cocktails are expertly crafted, which adds to the appeal. We’ll definitely put it on our list for next time in Pondicherry!
Also Read: Best restaurants in Ujjain near Mahakaleshwar Temple
Conclusion
In conclusion, while all the restaurants near Pondicherry’s beaches offer unique dining experiences, it’s essential to consider various factors when making your choice.
If you’re looking for a casual yet enjoyable atmosphere with diverse cuisine and a breathtaking sea view, Hook Lounge is a great option.
On the other hand, Cafe Xtasi is perfect for those seeking affordability without compromising on taste. Families can indulge in delicious wood-fired pizzas and Italian delights without breaking the bank. Our visit to Cafe Xtasi was a delightful one, with the Xtasi pizza leaving an unforgettable impression on our taste buds.
Whether you prioritize ambiance, cuisine variety, or budget-friendliness, these restaurants ensure that every diner can enjoy a satisfying meal near Pondicherry’s beautiful beaches.