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Annapurna Cuisine
Master Critic Review
Annapurna Cuisine
8.1
Pure vegetarian South Indian specialist recognized by Gayot as a Top 10 LA Indian restaurant, operating since the early 2000s with Chennai-style specialties. Each lunch buffet patron receives a complimentary dosa delivered tableside, while the kitchen rotates daily specials that showcase regional breadth. The space includes Bollywood videos on screens and a modern casual atmosphere that draws fifteen-year regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Masala Dosa, Vegetable Biryani, Chole Bhature
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Chennai-style vegetarian cooking with complimentary dosa included in lunch buffet, recognized by Gayot food critics
Who should go: Vegetarians and South Indian food lovers seeking exceptional value and authentic dosas
When to visit: Weekday lunch buffet for variety and free dosa, Sunday brunch service
What to order: Masala dosa is the signature, pair with vegetable biryani and chole bhature
Insider tip: Menu changes daily on lunch buffet—regulars call ahead to check specials
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on Westwood Blvd and side streets, typically easy to find spots
Dress code: Casual - anything goes, locals come in workout clothes
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - easy conversation, Bollywood videos play softly in background
Weekend wait: 10-15 min wait typical on Friday/Saturday evenings
Weekday lunch: No wait - buffet seats immediately, peak is 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 100% vegetarian restaurant, entire menu available
Vegan options: Yes - most dishes vegan or can be modified, ask about ghee in specific items
Gluten-free options: Limited - dosas contain fermented rice/lentils (safe), but many items have wheat, ask server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual early dates than romantic dinners - affordable buffet format removes menu pressure, but cafeteria-style setup isn't intimate. Works well for lunch dates or low-key meetups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - reservations not needed except possibly Sunday brunch. Weekday lunch buffet always has space, weeknight dinners rarely wait more than 15 minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - buffet format lets picky eaters choose, mild options available, casual atmosphere welcomes families. High chairs available. Many regulars bring young children.
How does the lunch buffet work? Pay one price ($11-13 typically), serve yourself from rotating daily specials, and every diner gets a complimentary fresh dosa made to order and brought to your table. Call ahead to check that day's buffet selection.
Do they have protein options for non-vegetarians? No meat or eggs - 100% pure vegetarian. If you need animal protein, this isn't your spot. Plenty of lentils, paneer, and chickpeas for vegetable-based protein.
Best For
Better for: Lunch buffet value (free dosa is unmatched), authentic Chennai-style dosas, everyday vegetarian dining, large groups splitting small bills. More approachable for South Indian newcomers than temple canteens.
Skip if: You want upscale ambiance, date-night romance, non-vegetarian options, or craft cocktails. For special occasions, hit Tamba or All India Cafe instead. If you need quick grab-and-go, Wholesome Choice works better.