Hindu Temple Canteen

This is one of the most well-known South Indian eateries in the New York City area, located not in Manhattan but in Flushing, Queens. What makes it unique is that it’s situated in the basement of a South Indian Hindu temple. You can attend temple service upstairs and then come downstairs to the cafeteria-style eatery. We visited one evening close to closing time, but the place was still packed — mostly with Indian diners, which makes sense since many of us eat dinner late. While the temple upstairs was what you’d typically expect, the dining hall downstairs was lively and full. Even so, we managed to find a table. This is a fully self-service setup. You place your order at the counter, sit down, and wait for your number to be called to collect the food. There’s no table service or fancy

Very fairly priced South Indian vegetarian restaurant/canteen in Flushing, located in the basement of the temple. The food was delicious and at the same time wasn't too oily. Although, the snacks were a bit on the expensive end, I felt, but definitely a must-visit.

The gift and book shop next to the canteen is must visit. They have musical instrument including veena, dholak and harmonium. various idols, puja samagri and books. Food at the canteen on top notch. Tasty, authentic, fresh A+++. Idly, vada, pongal and masala dosa were some of the best i have eaten outside India. Must visit the temple next door. temple is very beautiful, clean and serene inside. Must visit the spiritual shrine. 🙏🏽💕

An inexpensive vegetarian spot at the basement of the temple. A bit of trek from the city, the food is excellent with a large variety of dosas and sides. Usually get a bag of snacks to go that last weeks.

I stopped by the Hindu Temple Canteen after visiting the temple and the place delivers exactly what people say about it. The food is simple, fresh and made with the kind of consistency you only get in a temple kitchen. I tried two plates because I was there with a friend. The pongal was warm, comforting and properly seasoned. The curd vada had a light, balanced taste and felt refreshing. The mixture on the side added a nice crunch. The dosa was crisp, not oily, and the coconut chutney tasted clean. The sambar was mild but paired well with everything. The canteen is not about presentation. It's about honest food that feels familiar and satisfying. Portions are fair and pricing is very reasonable for New York. If you're already visiting the temple, stopping here makes total sense. It’s qui