Croque Provencal & Strawberry Tarts: Here Are Our Pick Of Pondicherry’s Best Cafes

Rated as the 5th Best Cafe In The World by Conde Nast Traveler, Coromandel cafe is a beautifully restored colonial villa with pink walls and a palm-filled courtyard that's the perfect spot to unwind with a curry-leaf martini with a side of spicy Bengal tiger prawns. The restaurant has managed to magically add a tinge of urban to the sleepy town and rightly so. Expect everything from scrumptious breakfast food to indulgent seafood with immaculate wine pairings. They are also known to use local fresh ingredients and produce from the best of the best suppliers to make food all the more of a magical gastronomical journey. 

Known for their fantastic French cuisine, smoothie bowls, and pizzas, this place is a cosy get away with an even cosier retro neon ambience. They're known for their vegan food options as well as their drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic. They're kid friendly too which is appreciated if you're travelling with family and kids. 

The folks from Mason & Co chocolates have launched Bread & Chocolate, a little gem located on the Auroville Main Road. Once you make your way into this tiny cafe, you’ll spot the counters stacked with artisan goodies from fresh-baked breads to golden-brown tart shells lined with ruby red strawberries. The sandwiches made with fragrant focaccia bread and their nutritious salads are worth ordering as well.

Of course, the Gelato Factory is best known for its delicious gelatos and sorbettos including several vegan flavours and versions. But you can stop by for a quick bite as well. For brekkie, there are flaky croissants that you can pair with ice cream and creamy scrambled eggs. If you are looking for heavier sustenance, then chomp on their focaccia sandwiches. 

Surrounded by a serene garden, Naturellement Garden Cafe is a must stop when you are in Auroville. Their USP is that they source fresh local produce and prepare everything from scratch. Their downy breads are a winner. You’ve also got to try their buttery gnocchi and their simple but delicious pastas. Their divine chocolate cake is a must as well. On your way out, do pack jars of their marmalades and nut butters to take home.

One of the best cafes in main Pondicherry, Baker Street has quite the fan following. Trust us, you’ll spend quite a bit of time checking out all their baked goodies on display. If you are feeling confused as to what to get, their Spinach Quiche (or their Chicken and Olive version) is an excellent idea. So are their chocolate croissants and their gooey eclairs.