TLDR
An iconic South Indian vegetarian cafeteria inside a Hindu temple, serving delicious and affordable dosas.
Details
Temple Canteen is a highly recommended South Indian vegetarian cafeteria located inside a Hindu temple in Flushing, Queens [1]. It's celebrated for its authentic and affordable dosas, particularly the paper masala dosa which is described as an iconic NYC dish [2]. The food is consistently praised for its quality and value, making it a beloved spot for both everyday meals and a unique dining experience [3].
Food Overview
Temple Canteen is renowned for its South Indian vegetarian fare, with dosas being a standout. The paper masala dosa is frequently highlighted as an iconic dish, praised for being paper-thin, perfectly crisp, and served with fresh accompaniments [1]. Other recommended dishes include the ghee roast dosa and rava masala dosa [2], [3]. While most feedback is positive, one user noted that quality may not be as consistent as it used to be [4].
Caveats
One user mentioned that the quality of food at Temple Canteen might not be as consistent as it used to be [1]. Another comment suggested bringing your own containers as they do not provide takeaway boxes for food ordered to eat in [2]. There was also a comment expressing discomfort as a non-Hindu diner, though others reassured them they were welcome [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About TEMPLE CANTEEN
Recent Reddit Mentions
From 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."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"A brief comment stating that Temple Canteen is a great place."
PositiveFrom post: Paper Masala Dosa At Temple Canteen
"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