Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in Chennai: 6 unusual, must-visit places

From classic to offbeat – take in the city’s unique sights and sounds. Concealed in bustling alleys are curated shops, unspoiled natural havens and eateries that promise a taste of the authentic.

1. Prison Bazaar Even though this outlet is located on the periphery of Puzhal Central Prison, it’s not as scary as it sounds. Inmates from nine state jails make and retail decor products and even sell organic vegetables and bakery items – a noble initiative.Where: NH 5, Mahalakshmi Nagar, Puzhal, Chennai 66Tel: (044) 26590350

2. Rathna Stores If you need a change from modern china and glassware, this place will feel like home. Flat bottomed copper and silver vessels of various shapes and sizes, dangle from every corner of the store including the ceiling! Where: Shop 79, Shiva Complex, South Usman Road, Chennai 17Tel: (044) 33072732

3. Book building you need to be barefoot when you enter this airy edifice, created by Tara Books that specialises in handmade tomes. Watch visiting artists at work or just relax with a book on art or design in the outdoor gallery. Where: 9, Kuppam Beach Road, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai 41Tel: (044) 42601033

4. Madras Terrace House This dreamy structure with large windows, winding staircases and blue-green walls, is an apt art house. It is also an ideal venue for plays, exhibitions, indie film screenings and events.Where: 15, Sripuram 2nd Street, Royapettah, Chennai 41Tel: (044) 45038391

5. Murugan Idli Shop As early as he could remember, owner Manoharan knew his mother’s fluffy idlis would be a hit with the masses too. The secret is in the non-traditional Chettinad batter. Where: E 149/1, 6th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai 90Tel: (044) 42018181

6. Amadora The scoop here involves 225 flavours of artisanal ice cream. Founder/engineer Deepak Suresh experiments with unusual ingredients like garam masala and earl grey, to whip up delicious frozen delights.Where: 23, Wallace Garden, 3rd Street, Chennai 06Tel: (044) 42323482

For more secret addresses in your hometown, get our Diwali booklet that comes free with our October–November 2015 issue

Also read: Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in Bengaluru: 6 unusual, must-visit places…