Iconic paper masala dosa w/ fresh sambar & chutney. Authentic South Indian vegetarian cafeteria inside a temple. A must-try!
A beloved South Indian vegetarian cafeteria nestled within a Hindu temple in Queens, this spot has been a culinary fixture for decades. It's renowned for its exceptionally thin and crisp paper masala dosas, served with fresh accompaniments, offering an authentic and affordable taste of India that many believe surpasses more upscale establishments.
The restaurant specializes in South Indian vegetarian cuisine, with a strong emphasis on its dosas, particularly the paper masala dosa. Customers rave about the thin, crispy texture and the fresh accompaniments like sambar and chutneys. While most feedback is positive, some mention that quality can occasionally vary.
"The paper masala dosa is highly recommended and considered iconic. Other recommended dishes include the ghee roast dosa and the vegetarian thali."
Customers overwhelmingly praise the authentic and delicious South Indian vegetarian fare, with the dosas being a particular standout. The affordability and cafeteria vibe contribute to its positive reputation.
Important Note
The restaurant's location in Flushing may require a significant commute for some. There is also a note that while generally good, the consistency of quality might have varied for some patrons. Additionally, a pro-tip suggests bringing your own containers as they do not provide takeaway boxes for food ordered to eat in.
"This commenter highlighted Temple Canteen as a unique, affordable, and casual spot with very good food."
Positive"Temple Canteen is listed as a recommended restaurant."
Positive"Temple Canteen was listed as a recommendation for Indian/Nepali food in Manhattan/Bronx/Queens."
Neutral"Temple Canteen is a recommended spot in Brooklyn/Queens."
Positive"Recommends Temple Canteen in Flushing, Queens for South Indian vegetarian food, noting it's a canteen in a temple."
Positive"This user is asking for recommendations on fun things to do in the Flushing area to make a trip to Temple Canteen part of a longer visit."
Neutral"A pro tip advises bringing your own containers to Temple Canteen due to huge portions, as they do not provide takeaway boxes for food ordered to eat in."
Neutral"This comment expresses disapproval of a suggestion that Temple Canteen should be on a NYT list, believing the restaurant has enough business and doesn't need more attention from 'randos'. Another user defends the restaurant's success and its connection to the Hindu community."
Negative"A short, enthusiastic comment expressing love for Temple Canteen and calling the food delicious."
Positive"A brief comparison stating that Temple Canteen is 'low key better than Semma'."
Positive"A long-time patron (12+ years) of Temple Canteen notes improvements due to increased diversity of diners. Their favorite dish is the rava masala dosa, which they find unmatched in NYC."
Positive"The commenter mentions that Temple Canteen occasionally offers a Hyderabadi dosa special which is highly recommended for those who enjoy spicy dosas."
Positive"The commenter states that Temple Canteen is the only place in NYC where they have truly enjoyed a dosa."
Positive"The commenter finds the food at Temple Canteen amazing but feels awkward as a lone white person without ties to Hinduism. Other users reassure them that they are welcome and shouldn't feel weird."
Neutral"The commenter expresses their love for Temple Canteen and thanks the original poster for reminding them to visit again soon."
Positive"A brief comment stating that Temple Canteen is a great place."
Positive"The paper masala dosa at Temple Canteen in Flushing is described as an iconic NYC dish. It's noted for being paper-thin, perfectly crisp, and served with incredibly fresh sambar, aloo masala, and coconut chutney. The author also enjoyed the cafeteria vibes and believes the place deserves a spot on the NYT Best 100 list."
Positive"Temple Canteen in Flushing/Hillcrest is a South Indian vegetarian cafeteria located inside a Hindu temple."
Positive"This commenter recommended The Temple Canteen as a place that serves dosas, which can be eaten with hands."
Positive"This user finds Temple Canteen to be great but notes that its quality is not as consistent as it used to be, preferring Dosa Hutt next door."
Negative
