IPL 2023: A Foodie's Guide To Chennai & Ahmedabad Stadiums
Image Credit: Images via Wikimedia Commons

Attending an IPL match is an exhilarating experience that brings fans together for a thrilling display of cricketing prowess. As you cheer on your favourite team and immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere, it's essential to fuel your body with the right foods for sustained energy and enjoyment. To make the most of your match day culinary adventures it is important to plan ahead on the when, where and what to eat. 

Hydration is key when spending hours in the stadium, especially in the heat of summer. Carry a water bottle and make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the match to stay refreshed and avoid dehydration. 

With the excitement of the match and the abundance of food options, it's easy to get carried away. Remember to pace yourself and eat in moderation. Take breaks between meals to enjoy the match and socialize with fellow fans. Remember, the focus is on the game, and enjoying the food is just an added bonus. 

Consider the time of the match and plan your meal ahead, evening matches tend to carry on way into the night when most eateries and restaurants shut down. Some places are open late into the night; those are your best bet in such times. 

That being said, here is our master list of some of the best snacks and eateries near the IPL stadiums in Chennai and Ahmedabad. These are not only affordable but also comforting to your taste buds. 

CHENNAI

When in Chennai you have to indulge yourself with authentic South Indian delicacies ranging from crispy dosas, melt-in-your-mouth idlis, and warm rasam to the local flavourful Chettinad cuisine. The concept of “mess” has a dominant presence in the city and on a hot day in May in a city which receives little rainfall, these are your best bet. These renowned places are sure to satisfy your cravings before or after the match and most of them remain open till late into the night.

Sri Sai Unavagam: 

Located at a walkable distance from the stadium, this is a local eatery that will stay open till after the evening match is over. 

Nair Mess: 

Situated just a short distance from M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Nair Mess is a legendary restaurant known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. Indulge in their lip-smacking dosas, crispy vadas, and flavorful curries that will leave you craving more. 

Saravana Bhavan: 

For a diverse menu of South Indian delicacies, head to Saravana Bhavan. From piping hot sambar vada to mouth-watering masala dosas, their extensive menu is sure to leave you craving for more. Don't forget to try their signature filter coffee. 

Ratna Cafe: 

A must-visit establishment near the stadium, Ratna Cafe has been serving delectable South Indian fare since 1948. Enjoy their famous filter coffee, fluffy idlis, and crispy dosas that have garnered a loyal following over the years. 

Royal Sandwich: 

If you're craving a late-night snack and not in the mood for a south Indian fare, head to Royal Sandwich in Triplicane. This eatery specializes in a variety of mouth-watering sandwiches, chaats, and refreshing beverages, catering to your hunger pangs long after the match ends.

AHMEDABAD

Nestled close to the Sabarmati river, the Narendra Modi Stadium is located in a more affluent area as compared to the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. However, fret not for we have curated a list of late-night eateries located close to the stadium as well. 

Manek Chowk: 

For a truly immersive late-night culinary experience, head to Manek Chowk, a bustling night market near Narendra Modi Stadium. This vibrant food street comes alive after sunset and offers a diverse array of flavours and dishes. From street snacks to traditional Gujarati and international cuisines, Manek Chowk is a food lover's paradise. 

Honest Restaurant: 

This is a popular Gujarati restaurant that has been serving the city of Ahmedabad for over 20 years. They offer a wide variety of Gujarati dishes, including thalis, curries, and snacks. The restaurant is known for its fresh, authentic food and its friendly service. 

Bako The Restaurant: 

This is a modern Indian restaurant that serves creative and delicious dishes. The menu features a mix of traditional Indian dishes and modern fusion dishes. The restaurant also has a beautiful outdoor patio that is perfect for dining al fresco. 

Shree Marutinandan Kathiyawadi and Garden Restaurant: 

This place serves the local Gujarati cuisine offering a variety of Kathiyawadi dishes. Kathiyawadi cuisine is a regional cuisine from the Kathiyawad region of Gujarat. The cuisine is known for its use of spices and its hearty, flavourful dishes. 

GwalBhog: 

This popular vegetarian restaurant has a focus on traditional Gujarati cuisine. The eatery offers a diverse menu of flavourful dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region. 

To make the most of your match-day culinary adventures, it's important to plan ahead and consider factors such as hydration, pacing yourself, and choosing the right places to dine. As you cheer for your favourite team towards the end of this IPL season, don't forget to relish the delectable food options available, making your IPL experience truly memorable.