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Restaurant

Chennai Express

Authentic Indian flavors arrive at the heart of the city with every vibrant spice-filled bite.

Downtown
4.4$
CLOSEDOpens Tomorrow at 11:30 am
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Photo of Chennai Express, Downtown - Montreal
IndianBoutique-CounterBrunch
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About

Chennai Express offers an authentic journey through the vibrant flavors of South India, specializing in classic dishes prepared with traditional techniques and fresh, aromatic spices. The menu highlights regional specialties, featuring expertly crafted dosas with an array of fillings, fluffy idlis served with sambar and chutney, and rich, flavorful curries simmered to perfection. Savory tandoori specialties, marinated and cooked in the clay oven, provide a delightful contrast to the South Indian fare. The dining experience is designed to be a welcoming exploration of Indian culinary heritage, presenting a diverse selection of well-executed dishes that capture the essence of authentic Indian cooking. It's a destination for those seeking genuine taste and quality.
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5★
71%
4★
11%
3★
7%
2★
10%
1★
1%

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Reviews for Chennai Express

Food
Service
on Google4.2 (1100+)
*as of 2026-08-15
5★
71%
4★
11%
3★
7%
2★
10%
1★
1%

Review Summary

Chennai Express is widely regarded as a standout destination for authentic South Indian cuisine in the heart of the city, with many visitors praising the expertly prepared dosas and traditional podi idli that evoke the flavors of home. The restaurant is frequently celebrated for its warm and welcoming service, affordable pricing, and generous portion sizes, making it a favorite spot for a satisfying and casual meal. Although the seating area is limited due to the shared food court environment, the quality of the flavorful, spice-forward dishes and the friendly atmosphere ensure that diners keep returning for a consistently delightful experience.
Page 1 of 1 - 7 Reviews

Delicious chicken biryani- good portion size & very reasonably priced. It's a takeout place & easily missed when you're walking by but we're so glad we found this hidden gem!

Aug 21, 2026
on Google

I used to work a few doors down from this place. One day I decided to try the food & I've been hooked since then. Now when I am in the area I never fail to stop by. The owner/waiter/chef is such a pleasant gentleman. I rate him a 10 out of 10 for customer service. My go-to dish is the Biryani. I find it spicy & would tear up eating but will keep coming back tearing up😂.
The restaurant is not a sit down establishment. There is counter space which is shared amongst 3 restaurants so first come first sit down.
Overall good experience & will be back when I am in the area.👍

Jun 11, 2025
on Google

We were visiting & came across this South Indian spot in a shared space with two other fast food choices (pizza & wok). This place is the real deal - authentic South Indian flavours at an affordable price. We had the idlis which were freshly steamed & served with tasty chutney & sambar. The masala dosa was excellent - perfectly crispy with a well spiced potato masala. Finally, the chicken biryani was marinated, fragrant & delicious. Highly recommend!

Ps - seating wise, there's a long table with high chairs, but because these are shared between the three restaurants, there may not always be availability (it is first come first serve). The takeout option worked best for us!

Mar 25, 2025
on Google

The masala dosa was absolutely excellent - crispy, flaky, & served with delicious coconut chutney & sambar. The chicken biryani was good, with flavorful spices that satisfied my craving for traditional South Indian cuisine.

Jan 19, 2025
on Google

This is a nice little place in the center of downtown on st Catherine Street . This place has been my usual now for several years . My usual orders are chicken curry , lamb curry & chicken biryani for takeways . I always call in advance & schedule my pickup as its very crowded on busy hours . When I have dine in , I usually order plain dosa & idlis . Idlis are usually served in the evening & fresh so I recommend to call & place an order for them in advance .

Oct 22, 2024
on Google

Decent Veg Biryani, felt like mixed veg with rice.

Aug 17, 2024
on Google

A small kiosk amidst hustle & bustle of Montreal downtown. Delicious food & courteous owner. Excellent pricing. We ordered masala dosa & chicken biryani. Masala in the dosa was well prepared (perfectly boiled & mashed potatoes with perfect combination of south Indian spices). Chicken pieces in the biryani were well cooked & soaked in spices to a perfect measure. If you are looking to sit down & enjoy the food, you have to pick your time of visiting this place wisely. We visited at lunch hour, so the place was jam packed as it has two other food joints there. Overall, 5/5 in my book.

Aug 15, 2024
on Google