Annam Brahma: Queens' Oasis for Vegetarian Indian & Global Cuisine

Annam Brahma Introduce

Introduction / Overview: Your Sanctuary for Wholesome Vegetarian Dining in Queens

For decades, New Yorkers seeking a peaceful dining escape and genuinely nourishing food have found their way to Annam Brahma in the Jamaica Hills section of Queens. More than just a vegetarian restaurant, this cherished establishment is an "oasis" in the hustle of New York City, offering a culinary and spiritual retreat for its patrons. Inaugurated in 1971, Annam Brahma is a true pioneer of the vegetarian dining scene in New York. Its name, derived from Sanskrit, translates profoundly to "Food is God," a philosophy that guides every dish prepared and served. The restaurant’s unique and serene ambiance is directly inspired by the late meditation teacher and peace advocate, Sri Chinmoy, whose students have lovingly operated the business for years. This spiritual foundation translates into a dining experience characterized by tranquility, kindness, and a commitment to wholesome ingredients.

Annam Brahma has earned a reputation, and accolades—including being voted Queens’ best vegetarian restaurant by the Queens Tribune and Bethpage Best of the Boro—for its diverse international vegetarian cuisine. While deeply rooted in authentic East Indian flavors, the menu skillfully blends American, Chinese, and Italian influences. The focus is always on healthy and tasty homemade food, featuring everything from nourishing daily soups and classic Indian curries to vegetarian burgers and exceptional, fresh juices. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian, looking for delicious vegan options, or simply seeking a comforting, high-quality meal, Annam Brahma promises an experience that is both satisfying for the palate and calming for the mind.

Location and Accessibility: A Queens Landmark in Jamaica Hills

Annam Brahma is conveniently situated in the vibrant Jamaica Hills neighborhood of Queens, NY, making it an accessible destination for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant's distinctive, calming light blue exterior provides a welcoming beacon on 164th Street.

The official address is 84-43 164th St, Jamaica, NY 11432, USA. For those traveling via public transportation, the restaurant is a manageable distance from the F Train's Parsons Boulevard Station, offering a practical route for many New York City residents. While street parking is generally available in the area, patrons traveling from further out may find the restaurant’s proximity to major Queens thoroughfares and the F train stop to be highly convenient.

Furthermore, Annam Brahma is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests, offering a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating within the dining area.

Services Offered

Annam Brahma offers a variety of services to accommodate the busy schedules and preferences of New York diners:

Dine-in: Enjoy the casual, cozy, and quiet atmosphere with table service for a relaxing meal.
Takeout: Meals are available for pickup for those on the go.
Delivery: Convenient delivery options ensure you can enjoy their food from the comfort of your home or office.
Curbside Pickup: A hassle-free option for quick collection of orders.
Catering: Services are available for groups and special events.
Reservations: Annam Brahma is an establishment that graciously accepts reservations for those planning a visit, especially with groups.
Family Amenities: The restaurant is family-friendly and provides high chairs for children.

Features / Highlights: What Makes Annam Brahma Unique

Annam Brahma stands out in the competitive New York dining landscape due to its unique combination of quality food and a distinctive atmosphere:

Sri Chinmoy’s Spiritual Inspiration: The restaurant is one of several establishments worldwide founded and run by students of the late meditation teacher, Sri Chinmoy. This connection permeates the restaurant, fostering a deeply peaceful and serene ambiance, often enhanced by soothing music.
Homemade and Wholesome Cuisine: The menu emphasizes healthy, homemade food, with a focus on nourishing, quality ingredients.
Extensive International Vegetarian Menu: While specializing in authentic Indian vegetarian and vegan cuisine, the menu also features a creative blend of American, Chinese (featured on Tuesdays), and Italian (featured on Thursdays) dishes, ensuring there’s something for every preference. Signature items include Masala Dosa, Indian Dal, and a variety of curries and wraps.
Dedicated Vegan and Healthy Options: The menu clearly labels and accommodates various dietary needs, including numerous vegan and gluten-free choices, along with a wide array of healthy options, from fresh salads to nutrient-rich bowls and juices.
Award-Winning Status: The restaurant has been recognized locally as Queens’ best vegetarian restaurant, a testament to its long-standing quality and community appeal.
Exceptional Beverages and Desserts: Patrons consistently highlight the great selection of teas and coffee, and especially the superb homemade desserts and cakes as must-try treats.
Women-Owned Business: Annam Brahma proudly identifies as a women-owned establishment, reflecting a strong presence of women devotees of Sri Chinmoy in its operation and service.
Cash-Only Policy: It is important for all guests to note that Annam Brahma is a cash-only establishment, though they do accept checks.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or place an order, please use the following contact details:

Address: 84-43 164th St, Jamaica, NY 11432, USA
Phone: (718) 523-2600

What is Worth Choosing: A Look at the Menu Highlights

The expansive menu at Annam Brahma offers delightful choices at every price point, from quick bites to full, satisfying meals. The enduring popularity of the restaurant stems from its ability to offer both authentic Indian comfort food and accessible international dishes. When visiting, consider these must-try selections:

For a traditional Indian start, the Indian Dal soup or the tangy and savory Indian Sambhar are highly praised by regular customers for their nourishing qualities. Among the appetizers, the classic Samosas and the unique Alu Chop (potato-onion patties) are excellent, served with homemade chutney. The Masala Dosa, a thin, crispy rice and lentil crepe, is a standout on the Indian Specialties menu, a testament to the restaurant's authentic Indian offerings.

Beyond the traditional Indian fare, the menu offers a wide variety of inventive entrees and comfort foods. For a healthy and filling option, the various Bowls—including the Veggie-Brown Rice Bowl and Tofu-Veggie Bowl—provide a balanced, high-protein meal. The Chapatti Roll-Ups are a popular choice for a quick lunch, offering vegetables and savory sauces rolled into a fresh chapatti bread.

The restaurant's daily specials introduce international variety:

Tuesday: Chinese Day, featuring dishes like the Buddha's Garden Vegetable Medley on Brown Rice.
Thursday: Italian Day, where you can enjoy options such as Spaghetti with Soy Meatballs, Eggplant Parmesan, and Veggie Lasagna.
Friday: Neatloaf Day, featuring the savory vegetarian Neatloaf, often served with mashed potatoes and mushroom gravy.

New Yorkers seeking vegan comfort food will appreciate the Beyond Burger and the range of veggie burgers, as well as the many marked vegan (v) and gluten-free (gf) items on the menu. Don't forget to explore the refreshing beverages, with choices ranging from the cooling Ginger-Peppermint Cooler and Mango Lassi to a fantastic selection of hot herbal and organic teas and coffees.

The experience at Annam Brahma is defined not only by the menu’s diversity but by the quiet, meditative environment. Whether you are coming in for a solo dinner, bringing a family group, or stopping in for a healthy lunch, Annam Brahma continues to be a top-rated Queens destination that feeds both the body and the spirit.

Annam Brahma Food & drink

Soups
Indian Dal - Cup $4.25
Our famous lentil soup
Indian Dal - Bowl $5.25
Our famous lentil soup
Indian Sambhar - Cup $4.25
Lentils and vegetables (v)

Appetizers
Indian Sambhar - Bowl $5.25
Lentils and vegetables (v)
Samosa (2pc) $5.50
Potato-filled pastry (v)
Alu Chop (2pc) $5.50
Potato onion patties
Bhajia (v) $4.25
Tasty onion fritters
Bhelpuri (v) $4.25
Puffy bread, chutney, hel mix
Vegetable or Banana Pakora (v) $5.50
Chickpea batter snacks
Paneer Pakora $5.25
Savory Indian cheese fritters
Idli w/ Coconut Chutney (v, gf) $5.25
Steamed rice and dal dumplings
Springroll (1pc) (v) $2.75
Homemade, with "duck" sauce

Salads
Garden Green Salad (v) - small $3.50
Greens and garden vegetables
Garden Green Salad (v) - reg $5.50
Greens and garden vegetables
Garden Green Salad (v) - lge $8.75
Greens and garden vegetables
Greek Salad - regular $7.50
Feta, Greek olives, onions
Greek Salad - large $9.95
Feta, Greek olives, onions
Tofu Salad (v) - regular $7.50
Greens, veggies, grilled tofu
Tofu Salad (v) - large $9.95
Greens, veggies, grilled tofu
Avocado Salad (v) - regular $9.45
Greens, vegetables, avocado
Avocado Salad (v) - large $11.95
Greens, vegetables, avocado
Falafel Salad (v, gf) $11.95
Falafel pattie on mixed salad

Indian Specialties
Annam Brahma Dinner $12.50
Curry, rice, dal, snacks
Indian Curry (vo) - à la carte $5.95
Four choices of curry
Palak Panir - à la carte $6.70
Palak Panir: spinach & panir
Indian Curry, Rice and Dal $9.95
Curry, rice, dal and chutney
Curry, Rice, Dal (Luncheon) $5.95
Weekdays only from 12:00-2:30pm
Masala Dosa (v, gf) $10.95
Rice-lentil crêpe, potato curry
Idli with Sambhar (v, gf) $9.25
Steamed rice and dal dumplings
Raita "salad" (side order) $3.50
Spiced cucumber-tomato yoghurt

Breads
Pappadam (v, gf) $1.25
Crunchy lentil wafer, fried
Puri (v) $2.25
Puffy fried multi-grain bread
Chapatti (vo) $2.50
Grilled multi-grain bread
Naan (vo) $2.25
Tandoori-style bread
Dosa Crêpe (vo, gf) $2.75
Rice-lentil crêpe
Multi-grain Bread $2.25
Buttered or vegan

Entrees
Chapatti Roll-Up (vo) $9.95
Chapatti w/ curry, salad, mayo
Dosa Roll-Up (vo) (gf) $11.50
Dosa with curry, salad, mayo
Vegetable Kabob (vo) $10.50
Marinated vegs, soy meats, rice
Indian Kabob (v) $11.50
Kabob w/ curry sauce, pappadam
Veggie-Brown Rice Bowl (v, gf) $9.95
Veggies, brown rice
Veggie-Beans & Grain Bowl (v) $10.95
Veggies, adzuki beans, rice
Tofu-Veggie Bowl (v) $10.95
Veggies, rice, grilled tofu
Wholesome Potato (vo) $3.95
Potato in the skin
Wholesome Potato w/ curry (vo) $6.95
Wholesome Potato w/ Palak Panir $7.75
Holy Cow $10.75
Grilled veggies, Feta cheese
Naan Pizza $6.95
Individual pizza, mozzarella

Omelettes
Omelettes (with toast)
Plain Omelette $5.50
Curry Omelette $8.95
Palak Panir Omelette $9.75
Cheese Omelette $7.50

Burgers & Sandwiches
Cheese Griller (Soy) $5.95
Pattie, cheese, roll, lettuce
Twinburger (Soy) $8.95
Double soy patty cheese griller
Beyond Burger (v) $10.95
Plant-based burger, bun
Falafel Burger (v) $8.95
Chickpea pattie, pita, tahini
Chipotle Black Bean Burger $7.95
Bean pattie, salsa, ww bread
Soy-Chicken Burger (v) $7.25
Chicken, bun, pickles, mustard

Sandwiches and Specialties
Avocado Sandwich on multigrain $8.95
Tomato,greens, onion, seeds(vo)
Avocado Sandwich on Chapatti $9.95
Avocado Sandwich on Dosa $10.25
BLT–Soy-Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato $5.95
Multi-grain bread, mayo sauce
Grilled Cheese Sandwich $4.50
On multi-grain bread
Hot Dog - Soy (v) $4.25
On roll with mustard

Served on Tuesday
Buddha's Garden (v) $10.95
Veggies, garlic sauce, rice
Buddha's Garden Platter (v) $12.95
With spring roll, duck sauce

Served on Thursday (Italian)
Spaghetti Marinara - side order $5.75
Sauce, parmesan, garlic bread
Spaghetti Marinara - full order $7.95
Spaghetti, soy meatballs - s/o $7.95
Spaghetti, soy meatballs - reg $10.95
Eggplant Parmesan - side order $5.95
Eggplant Parmesan - à la carte $8.95
Eggplant Parm - w garlic bread $11.50
Eggplant Parmesan Hero $8.95
Veggie Lasagna - side order $5.95
Veg. Lasagna - à la carte $8.95
Lasagna w/ garlic bread $11.50
Soy Meatball Hero $8.25
Tomato sauce and cheese
Garlic Bread - side order $2.50

Served on Friday (Neatloaf)
Neatloaf - à la carte $8.25
Vegetarian meatloaf (soy)
Neatloaf, mashed potato, gravy $11.95
Mashed potato, mushroom gravy $5.25

Side Orders
Vegetable Curry (v) $3.95
Palak Panir $4.75
Indian Dal, Indian Sambhar (v) $2.25
Rice - Basmati or Brown (v) $3.50
Steamed Vegetables (v) $5.95
Soy Meatballs in sauce $4.95
with Parmesan add 80c
Plain Yoghurt $2.50
Sautéed Tofu (v) $3.95
French Fries (v) $3.00
Plain Griller pattie $3.25
Grilled soy chicken (slice) $3.25
Soy Bacon per strip (v) $1.25
Tahini sauce, 2 oz (v) $1.50
Avocado (seasonal) (1/4) $1.95
Adzuki beans (v) $2.50
Chic Peas (v) $1.95

Refreshing Beverages
Ginger-Peppermint Cooler - reg $3.75
With honey
Ginger-Peppermint Cooler - lge $4.75
Thai Tea (with cream) $4.25
Iced Indian Chai Masala - reg $3.25
Spiced tea, milk, sugar
Iced Indian Chai Masala - large $4.25
Coconut Water - regular $2.95
With 5 essential electrolytes
Coconut Water - large $3.50
Apple Cider - regular $2.75
fresh-pressed, no sugar
Apple Cider - large $3.50
Egyptian Yellow Tea - reg $2.95
Digestive tonic, detoxifying
Egyptian Yellow Tea - lge $3.75
Tazo Herbal Tea & Juice $4.25
Juice, hibiscus, cane sugar
Izze Juices (organic) $4.25
Sparkling drink, no sugar
Izze Juices (organic) $2.95
Iced Herb Tea - regular $2.95
Unsweetened
Iced Herb Tea - large $3.50
Lemonade - regular $2.95
Lemonade - large $3.50
Emergen-C Energy Blast - reg $2.50
Vitamin C, electrolytes
Emergen-C Energy Blast - lge $2.95
Sweet Lassi - regular $3.50
Indian yoghurt shake
Sweet Lassi - large $4.50
Mango Lassi - regular $3.95
Mango Lassi - large $4.95
Coke,Diet Coke, GingerAle -reg $2.50
Coke,Diet Coke, GingerAle -lge $3.15

Fresh Vegetable & Fruit Juices
Carrot Juice - regular $3.50
Carrot Juice - large $4.75
Mixed Vegetable Juice - reg $3.95
Mixed Vegetable Juice - lge $4.95
Mixed Greens Juice - large $5.50
Full of antioxidants &nutrition
Fresh Fruit Frappé - regular $4.50
Strawberry, banana & apple
Fresh Fruit Frappé - large $5.50
Protein Shake with fruit- reg $4.95
Apple cider or organic soymilk
Protein Shake with fruit - lge $5.95

Hot Beverages
Indian Chai $2.25
Spiced tea, milk, sugar
Indian Chai $3.95
Ginger Tea with honey $3.50
Warming, energizing
Apple Cider (mulled) $3.95
Green Tea (organic) $2.95
Teecino (Java/Almond Amaretto) $3.50
Herbs, grains, fruits, nuts
Yerba Mate (organic) $3.50
Coffee $2.25

Heeling Teas (caffeine free)
Organic Cold Stop $3.50
Strengthens the immune system
Organic EchinaceaElderberry Tea $3.50
Cleanses, rejuvenates
Organic 'Devotion' Tulsi Tea $3.50
Promotes wellbeing & peace
Organic Good Earth Tea $3.50
Naturally sweet, w/antioxidants
Herbal Infusions $1.95
Choice of flavors
Herbal Infusions $2.95

Annam Brahma Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
Curbside pickup
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great tea selection
Serves local specialty

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Quiet

Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
Tourists

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Cash-only
Checks

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Annam Brahma Photos

Annam Brahma Location

Annam Brahma

New York Queens County Jamaica 164th Street

84-43 164th St, Jamaica, NY 11432, USA

Annam Brahma Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 383 user reviews.

atmospherepeacefulsri chinmoycurryspiritualcashenvironmentdahlcakefilling

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

As a sit down restaurant... 3.5starsONLY measuring the food? 4.4starsWent today with my father and little sister.The food was good, well seasoned. Fresh. No problems there as you can see from the pictures.The service however... was kind. But messy. There were multiple mistakes. We ordered drinks. Got halfway through meals before WE realized we never got it. (You can even see only water in the pictures)The first check was incorrect. About half the actual price. I politely sent it back.I would not mention this. I was going to make this review without mentioning it... BUTI and my little sister ordered cake for dessert. The waiter asked if we wanted whipped cream. I decided NO. (My sister is a child) the waiter still added it to my check even tho I said NO 3times.He gave it to us anyway and charged me for it...Like I get doing something nice for a kid. But you can't take my NO, do it anyway and then charge me??? What?AND THEN THERE WAS NO WHIPPED CREAM IN THE BAG.This place would be great. IF they tightened that up.The cakes were great too. But I couldn't really enjoy it with that experience in mind...Place has potential but check check and double check everything...
July 05 · Blossom Mystro
The place was not typical Indian restaurants that we went so far, all servers were followers of Sri ChinmoyFood was very good especially the sambhar was bit tangy and yummyPlace was so unique and wonderful experienceLoved the place and would go there once moreParking is on the street
August 31 · Fran A
Very cool vegetarian spot in Queens. I ordered the samosa, masala dosa and potato-onion-cashew masala (curry with rice) and lentil soap. The lentil soap was so hearty, I believe there's coconut in it. The samosa was also not too greasy and very light, which I enjoyed. I particularly like the crunchyness of the rice and lentil crepe with the filling inside. Overall, I had a pleasant experience.
August 21 · Connie Koo
The restaurant looks very outstanding inside and outside. Very peaceful place. till you start to ordering… the lady show up in a very nice traditional dress I love it but she forgot half of the order after she repeat it…It’s not a big deal when you waiting for your curry to your dosa (here not thin and crispy at all ) bring it by self and naan with butter was no butter.We didn’t feel the taste of India.That’s ok we like to try different flavors.But when we explain what we ordered and sent back the “wrong food” she started to scrolling her eyes. I wait for my wholesome potato with curry 15 min because she forgot this order too I didn’t make any complain. The twin burger was very delicious my son ordered I really like the “famous lentil soup” nothing else! Even we skipped the deserts for $80 it’s not worth it for one cooked potato a scoop of mashed veggies with rice.There are many great indian vegetarian restaurants, next time we be back to our favorites.
August 02 · Brigitta Danyi
Cash only - worth every penny. I had the lunch special, which was 8.95 for a good portion of food. Very calming spiritual ambiance with lovely staff to accompany it. I’m so happy to have stumbled upon this place :)
January 19 · Tori Hansen