Margazhi is a sacred month in the Tamil calendar, heralding a confluence of cultural and culinary delights. At Southern Spice, we take immense pride in curating an experience that beautifully blends the rich traditions of Margazhi with the exquisite flavours of South Indian cuisine. 

Nestled within the iconic Taj Coromandel, Southern Spice has become synonymous with authenticity and innovation in culinary offerings. Our chefs have meticulously crafted a menu that pays homage to the traditional flavours of the region, offering a gastronomic journey that mirrors the essence of Margazhi. The menu is intricately designed around this season, drawing inspiration from various dance and music forms, and adds a new fascinating layer the entire experience. Starters are aptly named "Varnams," the main course takes the form of "Ragam, Talam, Pallavi," beverages are referred to as "Jalatharangam," and desserts as "Tukkadas." 

Varnams feature delicacies like Kara Kuzhi Paniyaram (Tempered rice and lentil, shallow fried in a traditional concave); Banana Dosa (Jaggery and cardamom flavoured banana fritters); Eral Varuval (Crispy fried bay prawn tail) and Kilanga Meen Varuval (Lady fish from estuaries of Mangalore, marinated and crispy fried). The main course, Ragam, Talam, Pallavi includes regional specialties like Manathakkali Vathal Kuzhambu (Turkey berries, tamarind, tomato curry); Kai Kari Kurma (Seasonal vegetables cooked in rich coconut and cashew curry); Meen Manga Kozhambu (King fish cooked in green mango and coconut curry); and Nerunci Ulli Masala (Scallop cooked with shallots and tomatoes, spices). Desserts labeled Tukkadas tempts with delicacies like Javvarisi Semiya Payasam (Sago, vermicelli and milk confection); and Asoka Halwa (Moon dal, whole wheat confection), while Jalatharangam offers refreshing sips such as Panagam (A combination of jaggery, lime, ginger and cardamom with water); Vasantha Neer (Tender coconut water, honey, mint); and Neer Mor (chilled buttermilk flavoured with spices and herbs). 

As you step into Southern Spice during this special time, you`ll be greeted by an ambiance that resonates with the cultural vibrancy of Margazhi. The restaurant will be adorned with festive decor, setting the stage for an immersive experience that goes beyond the plate. Taj Coromandel, an enduring patron of art and culture in the city for several decades, adds a special touch to this extravagant festival by inviting you to experience the euphoria of this celebrated festival with exceptional classical performances from December 27 – 30, 2024. Southern Spice, our iconic award-winning South Indian specialty restaurant, will come alive each evening with classical recitals by renowned artists. The performances will feature various traditional forms such as Violin, Sitar, Mridangam, Saxophone and more. Basavaraju Brothers, Shishir Kumar, Rishabh Ranganathan, Akshay Ram, Nirmala Rajasekar, Shruthi Rajasekar, , D Chandrajit, Ixchel, Vishwas Hari, V.G Vigneswar, Shreelakshmi Bhat, Pranav R.V. and Sarvesh Karthick will captivate the audiences with their presentations. 

Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of classical music, as our talented musicians create an atmosphere that captures the spirit of Margazhi. The combination of soulful tunes and delectable dishes promises to transport you to the heart of South India, where tradition and taste come together in perfect harmony. The restaurant`s artistic decor further elevates the dining experience, drawing inspiration from the temple architecture of the Chola, Pallava and Pandya dynasties, featuring fascinating columns, artefacts and murals. 

Join us at Southern Spice as we embark on this journey of cultural exploration and culinary delight. 

Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel  December 27- 30 |  7:30PM onwards  |  Dinner  |  Please call  044 6600 2827 / 78248 62308 for more details and table reservations

- Dec 27: Basavaraju Brothers – An Instrument Concert: B. Raghavendra Rao (Violin), B Sivaramakrishna Rao (Sitar) and N Ramakrishnan (Mridangam)

- Dec 28: Shishir Kumar (Saxophone), Rishabh Ranganathan (Violin), and Akshay Ram (Mridangam)

- Dec 29: Nirmala Rajasekar (Saraswathi Veena), Shruthi Rajasekar (Keys), D Chandrajit (Tabla), and Ixchel (Electronic Music and Violin)

- Dec 30: Vishwas Hari (Mandolin), V.G Vigneswar (Keys), Shreelakshmi Bhat (Violin), Pranav R.V.(Keyboard) and Sarvesh Karthick (Mridangam)