Tinnai Mess - Gramiya Manam — Restaurant in Zone 15 Sholinganallur

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Feast for True South Indian Food Lovers – Tinnai Mess, OMR Road

If you’re craving an authentic Tamil Nadu non-veg meal that captures the soul of South Indian cooking, Tinnai Mess on OMR Road is an absolute must-visit.

From the moment you step in, the place radiates a homely charm – simple, neat, and welcoming, just like its name "Tinnai," which reminds you of traditional Tamil homes. But the real magic begins when the non-veg meals are served on a fresh banana leaf.

The spread is nothing short of a festival for the taste buds. Piping hot rice is paired with a variety of curries and gravies – each carrying the bold, rustic flavors Tamil Nadu is famous for. The fish curry is tangy and perfectly spiced, the mutton kuzhambu rich and hearty, and the chicken gravy an absolute delight. Alongside, you get fried delicacies – crisp, golden fish fry, spicy chicken varuval, mutton chukka that melts in your mouth, and the star of the show – the Prawns 65.

The Prawns 65 is a revelation – succulent, juicy prawns marinated in aromatic spices, fried to perfection, and tossed with curry leaves and green chilies. It’s crunchy on the outside, soft inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Easily one of the best versions you’ll find in Chennai!

What makes the meal truly special is the balance of flavors – the heat from the gravies, the tang from the rasam, the comfort of curd rice, and the crunch of appalams. Every element complements the other, and nothing feels overpowering. Portions are generous, service is warm, and the pricing makes it all the more satisfying.

Whether you’re a local or someone exploring Chennai’s food culture, Tinnai Mess delivers a complete South Indian non-veg experience that is soulful, authentic, and absolutely memorable.

I had to mention about Mr. Karthik, whose served us with love and great hospitality echoing with Tamil Culture.

✅ Must-try: Prawns 65, Mutton Chukka, Nethili Fry, Fish Curry ✅ Perfect for: Office-goers on OMR, weekend foodies, and anyone who loves traditional Tamil non-veg meals

Verdict: 🔥 Tinnai Mess is not just food, it’s tradition served with love. Highly...

This one is an over-hyped food joint. I went all amped up after going thru some videos of some self proclaimed food experts / vloggers.. First up, the restaurant is one the first floor and from the outside looks very non prominent and not really visible or exciting and the same theme is carried in the empty hall which greets you. Even the main dinning area looked dull, probably the lighting i guese - we had gone for dinner. Overall, the atmosphere was very dull and puts you down from the get-go. We were the first to arrive and slowly people started trickling in and surprisingly everyone, like us, seemed extremely unsure. The food is not out-of-the-world like most vloggers claim, it is spicy to an extent, but very normal, otherwise. Cost-wise ok too. Lot of staff around to serve you, but very less patrons around to be served, so they simply clump around and start yapping. Still very helpful and courteous no less. Don't go by the hype, it is a very normal, subtle place to have a decent lunch or dinner, but that's it. Nothing extraordinary like some videos tell you. Parking is available here. no table booking or...

A Biryani and meal liver’s Paradise – Don’t Miss the Mutton Thokku Biryani!

Thinnai Mess is a must-visit for anyone who loves bold, traditional South Indian flavors — and their Mutton Thokku Biryani is the undisputed star of the show.

The biryani is unlike anything you’ll find at a typical restaurant — slow-cooked, rich, and deeply flavorful. The mutton is incredibly tender and melts in your mouth, coated in a thick, spicy thokku masala that clings beautifully to every grain of rice. It strikes that perfect balance of heat and depth, with a distinct home-style touch that makes it feel authentic and soulful.

The portion size is generous, and the sides — especially the onion raita and spicy salna — complement the biryani perfectly. The setting is simple, but the food speaks volumes. If you’re a true biryani enthusiast, this dish alone is worth the trip.

Pro tip: Go on weekends — as you will get muyal fry and other special items

Highly recommended for anyone looking to experience biryani done right, the Tamil Nadu way. Thinnai Mess is...