Ananda

Ranjeet, our server, was incredibly friendly, attentive, and made us feel truly welcomed. His warm personality and professional attitude really stood out.

Terrible service overshadowed any enjoyment from the food We were looking forward to trying Ananda, but our experience was deeply disappointing and echoed many of the negative reviews we wish we had taken more seriously beforehand. We came in as a group of seven and were met with immediate attitude from the manager and server, who asked if we had a reservation — despite the restaurant being practically empty (only about five people seated). It was shocking to be questioned about reservations in such a quiet space. Our order included a mix of South and North Indian items: vada pav, batata vada, two dosas, mattar paneer, dal makhni, naan, and the South Indian thali. One of the kids with us accidentally mentioned tomato soup, which the server wrote down. Upon reviewing the order, we clarified and asked for it to be removed. Later, the kid decided they did want it after all, and we politely requested to add it. Instead of a simple yes or no, the manager stormed out to inform us that they do not allow changes once the order is finalized, claiming that additional orders in between “mess up” their kitchen flow. He was unnecessarily rude and condescending, making us feel unwelcome on our first visit. If such a strict policy exists, it should be clearly communicated before ordering—not enforced mid-meal with hostility. To add to the poor experience, our waitress was suddenly swapped midway through service. The new waiter was much more attentive, possibly because they realized we were upset, but by then, the tone had been set. Food-wise, some dishes were good, but portion sizes—especially for the mattar paneer and dal makhni—were very small for the price. The $25 South Indian thali arrived late, just 15 minutes before we were ready to leave, and worse, the kootu tasted spoiled. We were already disheartened by the service and didn’t want to escalate things further. The total bill was $178, which felt unreasonable considering the poor hospitality, limited portions, and quality concerns. In comparison to other Indian restaurants in NYC, this felt overpriced and deeply underwhelming. We’ve dined at many other places where the staff actively check on diners, ask if more food is needed, and offer dessert or chai at the end of the meal. That’s standard. Here, there was none of that warmth. After reading more reviews post-visit, it’s clear our experience wasn’t unique. Many others have faced similar hostility from the manager, including being yelled at, overcharged, or treated with blatant disrespect. It's appalling how consistently poor the customer service appears to be. The food alone can’t save a restaurant where the service makes you feel like an inconvenience. We won’t be returning and recommend others avoid this place unless they enjoy being treated poorly for a premium price.

Super fresh and yummy food. Today I took my parents and kids and we all enjoyed the food thoroughly. Must visit this restaurant for Indian fresh and yummy food

Amazed to get to eat authentic tasty Indian restaurant Service was great and the restaurant was clean. Food was great.

not good food.. potato was spoiled .. service was poor

A great experience for South Indian cuisine. Must try.

Everything about Ananda was truly a bliss. A gem in Manhattan. Quiet place to decompress and have excellent food. It may have been due to the fact that it was Memorial day weekend but the place has a good vibe with chill music playing in the background. Good place for real conversations and real food.

Amazing food, great host!

Omg their North Indian thali is 10/10 just wow!!! As an Indian I approve this - so delicious and authentic!! Wow

Take out wasn’t packed well. I ordered Jain food and taste was fine. Decently priced!