DOUGH DONE RIGHT

From ghee roast pizzas to butter-sage gnocchi, this cafe restaurant balances curiosity and comfort with ease

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NESTLED WITHIN THE vibrant pulse of Nungambakkam, the iconic Alliance Française de Madras has long been a celebrated hub for cultural discovery. Yet, these days, it's offering a rather delicious new way to connect, boasting two indulgent cafés that invite you to linger. Patricia Théry Hart, director of AF Madras, fondly describes La Maison—a charming café-library—as a 'third home' that sits between the home and work. Here you can grab a book, sip coffee, and probably make new friends. Meanwhile, Van Dough is a café restaurant that serves up a delightful spread of French delicacies and beyond.

We walked into Van Dough expecting comfort food with a twist and walked out pleasantly surprised by how confidently the kitchen plays with flavours.