Annapurna Cafe

Editor’s Note: Annapurna is currently only offering takeout.

Annapurna Cafe is one of the better things to ever happen to a basement. What the dining room lacks in sunlight it makes up for in friendly service and some of the tastiest Indian food in the city. Their creamy fish korma is a must-order, and their slow-cooked lamb curry is proven to cure the common cold (we’re not doctors, but we’re pretty confident in that assertion). It’s all just as excellent whether you’re hanging out in the basement clinking bottles of Kingfisher or picking up multiple plastic tubs of greatness to bring home and reheat.

Wait times are typically short, but if you encounter a crowd you can head upstairs to the Yeti Bar and order a saffron-lychee cocktail and some Himalayan bar snacks like wo achar and calamari pakoras. And if your table suddenly materializes? You’re allowed to bring your drinks downstairs with you because there’s no time to be wasted when piles of garlic naan and outstanding chicken momo are at stake.

Food Rundown

Tensing Momo

An order of Annapurna's Tensing momo is required by law, so don't make us get the authorities involved. The chicken filling is well-spiced, juicy, and pairs perfectly with the trio of chutneys: creamy peanut, spicy tomato, and herby mint.

Fish Korma

Even though this photo is simply a tub filled with orange sauce, beneath the surface is Annapurna's best dish—wonderfully flavorful stewed fish so tender you could feed it to a toothless baby. But please ask a pediatrician first if you're planning to do that.

Palak Paneer

This is more spinach than cream, and has an intense heat that plays nicely with mild paneer. If you need another entree to add on, order it with confidence.

Garlic Naan

Annapurna's version is a little more puffier than others in town, and we like it that way. Make a sandwich, or use it to mop up sauce, and party.