Cafe de Melon — Restaurant in Puducherry

This is a quaint little cafe that I had looked up on the internet as a place to visit when we visited Pondicherry. As we arrived at the restaurant, I saw that they had a wood fire pizza oven. We felt torn as we had just had a pizza in the afternoon. Perhaps next time. There was a narrow staircase leading up to the restaurant which was quite steep. There was no elevator I could see. Please call ahead to verify if you have people in your party that might not be able to manage that. The menu mentioned that dishes would take 20 minutes to arrive and we found we had to be patient for the food to arrive. The mains we ordered were excellent and that is why the food deserves a full 5 on 5 in this review. The Steak Au Poivre was well seasoned, peppery and exactly as I expected. Provided with Broccoli and a side of mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes were creamy but not overdone. My partner who has trained in French cuisine had a grilled chicken breast with herbs and lemon. She found the chicken well cooked but she found the brown sauce executed perfectly which is high praise coming from her. My daughter had the lasagna and loved it. I tasted it and the mince was well cooked and the white sauce was good, though I felt I would have loved more pasta layers. We had a salad as an appetizer in which the balsamic vinegar dressing was quite memorable. Areas of improvement would be in the appetizers and beverages. Maybe it is just the things we ordered, Garlic and Lemon Herbed chicken, citrus orange mocktail, and virgin mojitos. We felt these could be better. They only have mocktails and no alcohol. All in all - happy we visited and look forward to being back for a pizza maybe in that amazing wood...

Cafe de Melon in Puducherry is a hidden gem for food lovers. While the ambiance might not be top-notch, the cafe more than compensates with its delicious food and impeccable presentation. The menu offers a wide variety of options, ensuring there's something for everyone. I tried the chicken grilled burger, grilled fish, and veg pasta, and each dish was flavorful and perfectly complemented by their tasty mocktails.

The chicken grilled burger was succulent and juicy, with a perfect blend of spices that made each bite delightful. The grilled fish was cooked to perfection, tender and well-seasoned, though there was a minor hiccup when it was initially mixed up with a fish starter. The staff, however, was quick to apologize and promptly corrected the mistake, showing their dedication to customer satisfaction. The veg pasta was rich and creamy, a delightful option for vegetarians.

The service is a bit on the slower side, but that’s understandable given the care they put into crafting each dish. The wait is worth it when you finally get to savor the food. The portions are generous, ensuring a filling meal that leaves you satisfied. I was so full from the main courses that I didn't get a chance to try their desserts, but based on the quality of the other dishes, I'm confident they would be equally delightful.

The pricing is reasonable, making it a great value for the quality you get. It's a wonderful place for a casual meal with friends or family. Despite the ambiance not being the best, the food quality and presentation make Cafe de Melon a must-visit. Overall, I highly recommend Cafe de Melon for anyone seeking a great culinary experience...

I had the most amazing experience at a hidden gem of a cafe in Pondicherry, and I can't wait to go back! From the moment I walked in, the ambiance enveloped me in a sense of calm and relaxation. The decor was a perfect mix of cozy and chic, with an artistic vibe that reflected the unique spirit of Pondicherry. The space was bright and airy, with soft music playing in the background, making it an ideal spot for both a casual meal or a more intimate gathering.

The food was absolutely marvelous—each dish more delicious than the last. I started with a perfectly crafted smoothie bowl that was refreshing and full of vibrant flavors. For the main course, I opted for a fusion dish that blended traditional South Indian flavors with contemporary twists, and it exceeded all my expectations. The ingredients were fresh, the flavors were well-balanced, and the presentation was stunning. It’s clear that the chefs here put a lot of thought into every dish.

What stood out to me even more than the food was the overall experience. The cafe offers a wonderful balance of great food and a peaceful ambiance. Whether you're sipping a cup of aromatic coffee or indulging in a decadent dessert, the atmosphere makes it feel like time slows down. There’s a lovely outdoor seating area as well, where you can enjoy the beautiful Pondicherry weather, adding to the charm.

In all, this cafe is a must-visit for anyone in Pondicherry. It offers exceptional food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a tranquil setting that makes for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. I’m already looking forward to...