Restaurant Review: Adyar Ananda Bhawan

Veg South Indian

When we last tried Adyar Ananda Bhawan (A2B) in Sydney, it was one of the busiest restaurants on the city’s Little India stretch. This brand has a pan India and global presence. The newly opened Janpath outlet that is brand’s 175th is no different. At lunchtime, this was packed, with waiting diners outside. The model is simple and efficient: quick service, tasty all-vegetarian South Indian fare, and a steady flow of families and office-goers who come, eat, and leave satisfied. Alongside the restaurant section, there is also a counter for mithai and savouries, making it a one-stop destination for both meals and takeaway treats.

Atmospherics
The Janpath outlet follows a clean and functional design, in line with A2B’s family-diner ethos. Bright lighting and props and South Indian motifs on the walls greet you. Practical seating and quick turnover are the focus rather than elaborate décor. The space is designed for efficiency, with clearly marked areas for dining and counters sweets. Despite the rush, the service is organised, and tables are managed briskly to accommodate the steady crowds. For central Delhi, the location is strategic, catering to both shoppers and office workers in the area.

Food
Food is where A2B has built its reputation on. It serves fresh, reliable South Indian vegetarian fare. Crisp dosas, golden vadas, and soft, fluffy idlis arrive quickly, and the accompanying chutneys and sambar are flavourful. The South Indian thali is particularly popular. It eliminates the need to choose from the long list of dosas and idlis by offering a balanced platter with a variety of dishes in one meal. Uthapams, with their thicker, pancake-like base and toppings, are another must-try, and desserts on the menu and from the sweets counter make for a good finish. From traditional mithai to staple South Indian desserts and ice-creams, there are ample options. Meals here are filling, dependable, and priced to encourage repeat visits.

Plus and Minus
The biggest strength of A2B is consistency. You know what you are going to get, and it rarely disappoints. For Janpath, it offers a reliable, affordable vegetarian dining option in the heart of Delhi. The only minus, if any, is the waiting time during peak hours—but the efficiency of the staff keeps things moving.

Food 3.75, Decor 3.75, Service 3.75

Adyar Ananda Bhavan, 54-Janpath Road, Connaught Place, Meal for two: Rs 500 approx, Timings: 8 am-11 pm, Contact: +919444426272

Must try: Mini meals

This review was published in Delhi Times, The Times of India