Chennai might not be the nightlife capital of the world, thanks to strict local laws which mean that pubs have to put everyone to bed at midnight, but you’ll find one or two hidden gems that continue to party on, so check out our guide to partying like a pro in Chennai.
Leather Bar
Not an S&M club, despite the name, but rather named for its décor of leather sofas and even leather floors. This club is a hit with locals, and is always packed on the weekend.
It’s a small apartment that embodies the philosophy that three cats in a big room is boring, three cats in a bag equals fun. Half of Chennai pack into this place to sip on fancy cocktails and listen to top DJs.
Location: Street Park Hotel, 601 Anna Salai
Zara’s Tapas Bar
While you’re unlikely to think of a tapas bar as being the go-to venue in Southern India’s biggest city, it’s one of the hippest venues in town.
Despite the name, Zara’s Tapas Bar, this trendy locale enjoys an eclectic mix of styles, from experimental Spanish food, a fusion of Indian and Spanish hits on the decks, and cricket matches broadcast on TV.
The place is packed with its crowds in their 20s and 30s, and while there isn’t much space to dance, there are plenty of tables to sit down on, although it’s a good idea to make a reservation.
Check out some of weird tapas dishes they’ve got going on, like minced jamón serrano.
Location: Street 71 Cathedral Rd Locality Teynampet
Bike and Barrel
The name of this bar does what it says on the tin, decked out with barrels and bikes, this English themed pub comes with a travel and drinking theme that help the bar pull in the crowds.
With an in house DJ, pub grub and international drinks, it the place you want to hit up in Chennai when you’re looking for something to settle the back home nostalgia.
Location: 15,The Residency Towers,Thyagaraya Rd,T Nagar
Dublin
Dublin heaves with the crowds every night of the week, and even more so on weekends and for events. It manages to combine the ideal mix of groovy décor, good music and great ambience to make it one of Chennai’s best night clubs.
Dublin spreads over three levels as a club-cum-restaurant with top DJs and all round awesome atmosphere.
Even if Chennai is not really a night place, if you head over to Dublin you won’t be disappointed.
Location: 132 Ttk Road, Sheraton Park Hotel And Towers, Alwarpet
The B Bar
This chic bar has an exclusive feel, but combines the feeling of sophistication with a sociable atmosphere.
While it does have the look of being an elegant lifestyle bar, you can come in on sports nights and watch the game with a beer, or check out their Funky Friday’s or Saturday House Nights.
It’s the place to come for a drink and a chill out, since it’s a lounge bar with a relaxed atmosphere and good drinks.
Location: 94 Sommerset Greenways, Sathyadev Avenue
Pasha
Except for Tuesday, Pasha heaves pretty much every night of the week, sometimes casually, sometimes it’s packed for special events.
This is the club you want to check into on your visit to Chennai if you want to dance among the crowds. A little on the pricy side, but it definitely ticks the boxes as being one of Chennai’s top nightclubs.
You can get food and drink here, but for some privacy, there are also private pavilions on the first floor of the nightclub.
Location: The Park, Ground Floor, 601, Ellaiamman Colony, Anna Salai
