The best bars and cafés South India

Timetable

Cafés are open during the day, closing in the late afternoon in small towns and in the late evening in large cities. Bars generally open in the late afternoon and close between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m., depending on their authorization, which varies from state to state. In Goa, many bars and restaurants close at 2am, and some are open 24 hours a day.

Budget & Tips

Prices for an espresso or cappuccino in hotels or cafés are much the same as in France. That said, you're in the land of tea, so make the most of it! Prices are considerably lower in street stalls and other small shops.

Imported liqueurs are subject to high taxes, which makes local brands much more attractive.

Age restrictions

In India, the legal age for buying and consuming alcohol varies from state to state. Access to bars and pubs is theoretically forbidden to young people under the legal drinking age. In reality, however, some establishments (notably in Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra, and in mid-range and top-of-the-range hotels) serve alcohol to young tourists.

Goa, Karnataka: the legal drinking and purchasing age is 18.

Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu: 21 years.

Maharashtra: 21 for beer and wine, 25 for hard liquor.

Kerala: 23 years.

What's very local

It's impossible to visit the country without at least one taste of masala chai, the Indian tea made with milk and spices (ginger, cardamom, pepper, depending on the recipe)... Served piping hot in a small glass, clay or paper cup, it's usually enjoyed standing up, on the go.

Bars in cities and hotels are often the preserve of an exclusively male clientele, with almost no Indian women venturing in (with the exception of the "young" bars in Mumbai, Bangalore, Goa...).

Kids

Children are obviously not welcome in bars. However, they are sometimes allowed in most restaurants serving alcohol.

Smokers

Smoking is prohibited in public places. Smoking areas are available in some restaurants and bars. Smoking is tolerated in some bars and restaurants with open terraces in seaside resorts.