OUR SPECIALTY:

“Eat as you wish, give as you feel” South Indian vegetarian cuisine that is definitely value for money as customers decide for themselves how much they will pay.

THE INNOVATION:

Annalakshmi works on an interesting philosophy of “Athithi Dhevo Bhava”, which means “the guest is God”. The core of the South Indian vegetarian restaurant’s existence is to serve rather than to earn. Most staff are a group of like-minded volunteers who dedicate their time to serving because they seek joy in the underlying philosophy of serving as an act of giving and loving. The cooks are usually housewives, and service staff comprises of doctors, teachers, clerks and other professions.

Besides a dedicated staff, the food items at Annalakshmi are reflective of its South Indian origins and are served against an elaborately grand backdrop of Indian statues and artwork. Hence, with quality food, ambience and service, the restaurant is confident of surviving with its unique concept of “pay as you wish”.

Besides serving as a venue for TFA members to serve the community, Annalakshmi helps sustain the activities of TFA financially. Proceeds from Annalakshmi goes to the charitable and cultural activities of the Temple of Fine Arts, such as free medical treatment to the urban poor and “pay as you wish” dance classes.

BRIEF BACKGROUND:

Vegetarian restaurant Annalakshmi (Singapore) was set up at Excelsior Hotel in 1986 and is the culinary arts section of the Temple of Fine Arts (TFA). TFA is a community-based charitable organisation dedicated to spreading arts, music and dance in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Perth and Chennai. Annalakshmi has since grown in size and is now based in Chinatown Point in Chinatown. The restaurant also provides packed lunch and catering services.