From restaurants with sweeping city views within an iconic palace hotel to poolside dining under the stars to a beachfront resort overlooking the sea, we round up some of the most romantic dining destinations in South India. Perfect for this Valentine’s Day or romantic get-togethers all year long
1. Tiamo, Conrad Bengaluru:
Tiamo’s translation in Italian is ‘I love you’. Nestled on the edge of the infinity pool, Tiamo is one of the most romantic al-fresco dining spaces in Bengaluru with clear views of Ulsoor Lake. The menu is dominated by the strong flavors and simple ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine. These bistro classics complement some of Conrad’s most creative cocktails.
Kensington Road, Halasuru.
2. Locust, Bengaluru:
A sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of traffic jams and yet within easy reach from the city. It’s been two decades but the grasshopper remains a favorite spot for a romantic meal. Choose a secluded table in a corner of their garden surrounded by bamboo trees. Their private seven-course dinner (which can be customized to suit your dietary preferences) takes the hassle out of walking through the menu at the restaurant. Their winter specials include an asparagus bisque and seaweed caviar.
Bannerghatta, Kalena Agrahara
3. Falak, Leela Indian City, Bangalore:
There are few places in Bangalore that can match the panoramic views from this brand new F&B hotspot. This rooftop restaurant offers sweeping views of the city and Nandi Hills from afar. Falak Leela is a new brand for hotels and showcases Awadhi signatures and cuisine from the North West Frontier of India. The bar showcases artisanal cocktails with an Indian twist, while Falak’s signature lentils and slow-cooked chicken are both bestsellers.
Indian city
4. Horse 24:
A versatile location with a beautiful water body just off the East Coast Road connecting Chennai to Pondicherry. It’s a collection of spaces including a casual bar, but also an open to sky section with beach views making it the perfect spot for a candlelight dinner. The menu deviates from the clichés – try the coffee and tomato broth with Parmesan ice cream, while the cocktails really hit the spot.
Beach Road, Nilangarai
5. Bay View, Taj Fisherman’s Cove:
There are very few fine restaurants that take you as close to the ocean as Bay View. Thatch-roofed gazebos just a few feet from the ocean spray add to the experience at this atmospheric restaurant. The restaurant gets fresh boatloads of the day’s catch, with local influences dominating the menu; But this restaurant is ultimately about the view.
Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa, East Coast Road, Kovalam
6. Villa Maya, Thiruvananthapuram:
A lovingly restored 18th-century Dutch manor that once caught the attention of the Travancore royal family. The unique architecture takes you back in time, but it’s the outdoor seating that has our vote for an especially intimate dinner. The menu presents a wide repertoire of dishes from countries that historically trade with Kerala and includes signatures from Kerala, Morocco and Italy.
Airport Road, Injakkal, West Fort, Thiruvananthapuram
7. Ada, Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad:
Located 2,000 feet above the city of Hyderabad with 360-degree views of the city, is one of the most iconic modern palaces in India. Built in 1894, this palace hotel is a reminder of the romance and grandeur of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Ada offers beautiful city views (especially when the city lights are out) and showcases the slow-cooked Hyderabadi cuisine that originated in royal kitchens.
Engine Baoli, Falaknuma, Hyderabad
8. Colony Club House and Grill, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatti:
Kochi has a wide variety of dining venues with backwater and ocean views. The Grand Hyatt is spread over 26 acres of land on Bolgatti Island opposite Vembanad Lake. The rooftop Colony Clubhouse and Grille offers excellent, well-maintained views from the hotel. Colony brings together a fine selection of global cuisine – try the Cauliflower and Lobster Veloute and the Eight Textured Valrhona Chocolate Cake and a fine selection of spirits and artisanal cocktails.
Bolgatti Island, Kochi
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