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We’ve always wondered why Chennai had to wait so long for a luxury beachside bar. Chennai’s legendary coastline that now extends all the way to Mamallapuram along the Bay of Bengal is dotted with luxury resorts. It finally happened in 2018 when KoKoMMo, debuted as a Hawaiian-style tiki shack with it’s Polynesian-style tiki bar meets luxury shack vibe. A lot has changed in Chennai’s dining scene since then. It includes a ground-up overhaul of the InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram that has returned in a fresh new avatar.
KoKoMMo version 2.0 builds on the success of the 2010s original and is a key element in the InterContinental coastal experience. Like most beach shacks across the world, this one is all about the proximity to the ocean. The interiors (or exteriors in this case) are tailored to take you as close to the waves without too many unnecessary design elements.
There are few outdoor F&B spots in India where the flooring is the beach sand. KoKoMMo blurs the gap between the Bay of Bengal and rows of outdoor tables with the sky as it’s ceiling. This tiki bar uses very few props but they come together almost organically. From Polynesian-style masks to surfboards that also make the connection with Mahabalipuram’s bubbling surfing culture, every element adds to the beach vibe. There’s a very small section that offers protection from any surprise showers but that hardly matters at a venue that’s designed for typical Chennai evenings where the cool evening sea breeze counters the humidity.
One of the key improvements over the first iteration is the beachside bar. We like the interactive bar counter and the Tiki mugs with face motifs that transport you to a tropical paradise. This laidback, all-day dining spot seeks inspiration from the Beach Boys chartbuster that has remained a summer anthem for six decades and also features in the Tom Cruise movie Cocktail. You might feel those Cocktail vibes when you watch the mixologists work their magic at the live bar.
KoKoMMo hits the right notes with its classic cocktails, especially with white-rum based drinks. This is a beach bar after all. The cocktail program plays mostly safe at a time when Chennai is seeing a resurgent cocktail culture that newer bars are tapping into. KoKoMMo might have to play catch up on that front soon.
The InterContinental is flanked by multiple fishing villages where fresh catch of the day is a given. Most coastal dining venues along Chennai’s East Coast Road (aka ECR) that connects the city with Pondicherry offer a terrific choice of seafood. KoKoMMo is no exception. Sharing plates include Mermaid’s Kiss (grilled octopus with chimichurri), butter garlic prawns and Coastal Cool Mussels. But the menu doesn’t go overboard with seafood. There are heaps of comfort food options in the mix. From juicy burgers, pastas and grills (both meat and vegetarian), KoKoMMo goes beyond seafood. With unhindered ocean views the food is more likely to be the supporting cast. We like the large seafood platters (for two or four) that make it perfect for sharing over a few drinks.
In many ways KoKoMMo has the same universal appeal as a secluded beach. It’s a great spot for a candlelit dinner for romantic couples and works equally well for an office outing on a Friday evening to let out some steam. The flexible seating allows large, extended families on holiday to get together.
Located down ECR, KoKoMMo is easily accessible for Chennai residents who enjoy driving down the coast. You might also be tempted to extend your stay at this bar and check into the resort, the InterContinental is a great staycay option for couples and families. It’s a short drive or Uber ride if you’re holidaying at one of the other coastal resorts near the InterContinental.
Without Alcohol: Approximately ₹3,000–₹4,000 for two guests, including two starters and two main courses.
With Alcohol: Approximately ₹5,500–₹8,000 for two guests, depending on your choice of cocktails, wines or premium spirits.
It might be bigger than it’s cosier 2018 version and yet KoKoMMo still offers an intimate beach bar experience. KoKoMMo takes you closer to the ocean than restaurants or bars in most Indian cities with a heady mix of fresh catch of the day, classic drinks and mood-setting music. Just like the mythical Kokomo envisioned by the Beach Boys, it comes close to the imaginary paradise that allows you to get away from it all.