TLDR
Authentic, affordable South Indian vegetarian eats hidden inside a Flushing temple. Famous for paper-thin, crispy dosas and a unique, casual cafeteria vibe.
Instagram Posts References
Temple Canteen is lauded as the best NYC institution. It's described as a cafeteria located underneath a Hindu temple, serving traditional South Indian dishes like dosas and uttapam.
Details
Located within a Hindu temple in Flushing, this unique South Indian vegetarian cafeteria is widely celebrated as an authentic, iconic NYC institution [8], [9]. Known for its casual atmosphere and affordable, high-quality fare, it has earned a spot on the New York Times Best 100 list [9], [26]. While generally considered a must-visit for its traditional food, some long-time patrons note occasional inconsistencies in quality compared to its past standards [4].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in South Indian vegetarian cuisine, particularly renowned for its crispy, paper-thin dosas served with fresh sambar and coconut chutney [9]. Other popular dishes include uttapam and the Hyderabadi dosa special, though some diners suggest nearby alternatives for those seeking different flavor profiles [4], [11], [13], [16].
Highlights / Recommended
"The paper masala dosa is widely cited as an iconic dish, and the rava masala dosa is frequently praised by long-time patrons as the best in the city [9], [13]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •dosas(2)
- •ghee roast dosa(2)
Customer Sentiment
Overall sentiment is highly positive, with many diners praising it as an unmatched, reliable spot for traditional South Indian vegetarian food [9], [13], [21]. A few patrons have expressed minor concerns regarding inconsistent quality or have noted it can feel less accessible than other city options [4], [15].
Caveats
Some visitors may feel a sense of social awkwardness if they are not familiar with the setting, and others have noted that quality can occasionally be inconsistent [4], [15].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About TEMPLE CANTEEN
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: What Are Your Favorite Holes In The Wall
"Mentioned as part of a list of recommended hole-in-the-wall spots."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Recommendations For A Four Day
"Included in a list of quick-service recommendations."
NeutralFrom post: Staying In Flushing Establishments With Stories
"A commenter recommended visiting the Hindu Temple Canteen."
NeutralFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"This is one of many restaurants listed by the commenter from the NYTimes list."
NeutralFrom post: Best Midpriced Vegfriendly Cuisinefocused
"Temple Canteen was listed as a restaurant recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: Indiannepali Food Recommendations
"This commenter highlighted Temple Canteen as a unique, affordable, and casual spot with very good food."
PositiveFrom post: Tell Me Your Favorite Reliablecomfylocal Eats
"Temple Canteen is listed as a recommended restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: Indiannepali Food Recommendations
"Temple Canteen was listed as a recommendation for Indian/Nepali food in Manhattan/Bronx/Queens."
NeutralFrom post: Recently Moved To Nyc From Houston So Far Im
"Temple Canteen is a recommended spot in Brooklyn/Queens."
PositiveFrom post: Your Favorite Go To Restaurant That Doesnt Break
"Recommends Temple Canteen in Flushing, Queens for South Indian vegetarian food, noting it's a canteen in a temple."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"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."
NeutralFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"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."
NeutralFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"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."
NegativeFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"A short, enthusiastic comment expressing love for Temple Canteen and calling the food delicious."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"A brief comparison stating that Temple Canteen is 'low key better than Semma'."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"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."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"The commenter mentions that Temple Canteen occasionally offers a Hyderabadi dosa special which is highly recommended for those who enjoy spicy dosas."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"The commenter states that Temple Canteen is the only place in NYC where they have truly enjoyed a dosa."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"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."
NeutralFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"The commenter expresses their love for Temple Canteen and thanks the original poster for reminding them to visit again soon."
Positive