Govinda's Vegetarian Lunch

- 305 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11217

Tucked away on Schermerhorn Street in Downtown Brooklyn, Govinda's Vegetarian Lunch is a true local treasure, offering a tranquil and incredibly affordable dining experience that's hard to find in a city known for its high prices. Located in the basement of the Hare Krishna temple, this restaurant has been serving the community for years with a heartfelt dedication to wholesome, vegetarian food. It's not just a place to eat; it's a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle, providing a calm and welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy a nourishing meal. The concept is simple yet brilliant: a cafeteria-style setup with a rotating menu of flavorful Indian and American dishes, making it a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying lunch.

The restaurant's unique position as a volunteer-run, temple-affiliated establishment gives it a special character. The food, often referred to as "prasadam," is prepared and offered with a spiritual focus, which many patrons feel translates into a taste and energy that is both comforting and uplifting. The daily changing menu ensures that every visit is a new culinary adventure. You'll find a variety of rich soups, savory curries, and delightful sweets. The emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients, prepared without the use of onions and garlic, results in a clean and flavorful dining experience that showcases the natural goodness of the vegetables and spices. This approach to cooking is a core part of the Hare Krishna philosophy, and it's what makes the food at Govinda's so unique and appealing to a wide range of palates.

For those who are new to vegetarian or Indian cuisine, Govinda's offers an easy and non-intimidating way to explore new flavors. The cafeteria-style service allows you to see and choose your meal before you commit, and the staff is known for being friendly and welcoming, happy to guide you through the day's offerings. The affordability is a major draw, with prices that are a rare find in the area. Whether you opt for a single item or a complete meal with multiple choices, you'll be surprised at how much delicious food you get for your money. This value proposition has made it a popular spot for college students, locals working in the area, and even tourists seeking an authentic and low-cost dining option.

Beyond the main dishes, Govinda's also boasts a selection of house-made baked goods and desserts that have a dedicated following, including cakes and cookies. This variety, combined with the a la carte options for main courses and the flexible meal deals, means that there's always something to satisfy every craving. It's a place that proves vegetarian dining can be both filling and incredibly tasty, and it's a great choice for anyone looking for a wholesome meal in a peaceful setting. The atmosphere, complete with colorful murals and soothing chants, is part of the experience, inviting you to slow down and enjoy your food in a serene and welcoming environment.

Location and Accessibility

Govinda's Vegetarian Lunch is conveniently located at 305 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA. Situated in Downtown Brooklyn, it is easily accessible by public transportation, being only a short walk from major subway stations. While parking can be challenging in this busy neighborhood, there are options for both free street parking and paid street parking available nearby. The restaurant is located in the basement of the temple, offering a quiet and separate space for dining.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: Enjoy your meal in the peaceful and comfortable dining hall.
• Takeout: All menu options are available for convenient takeaway.
• Lunch Service: The primary meal service is for lunch, with the menu changing daily.
• Dessert: A variety of homemade sweets and baked goods are available to complement your meal.
• Buffet-Style Dining: The cafeteria-style setup allows for a quick and easy selection of dishes.
• Catering: A great option for group events and parties looking for a delicious vegetarian feast.

Features / Highlights

• Wholesome and Affordable Food: Known for its generous portions and very reasonable prices.
• Daily Rotating Menu: The menu changes daily, offering new flavors and options with every visit.
• Indian & American Fare: The menu features a delicious blend of traditional Indian dishes and familiar American classics like Eggplant Parmesan.
• Vegan and Vegetarian Options: The restaurant caters to both vegetarians and vegans, with clearly marked options.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: The dining space is known for being calm and relaxing, providing a serene escape from the city.
• Friendly and Welcoming Staff: The volunteer staff are often praised for their kind and attentive service.
• Temple Affiliation: The food is prepared with spiritual dedication, adding a unique and meaningful dimension to the dining experience.

Contact Information

Address: 305 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA

Phone: (718) 855-6714

What is worth choosing

When you visit Govinda's, the best value and experience often comes from choosing one of the meal deals, such as the "Complete Meal" or "Three Items" options. This allows you to sample a variety of the day's fresh-cooked dishes, which often include a combination of lentils (dal), rice, and vegetable curries. Many regulars recommend the daily specials, which can include popular dishes like the much-praised Eggplant Parmesan or a comforting lentil soup. The samosas are also a consistently popular choice, known for being delicious and hearty.

For those who enjoy authentic Indian street food, the restaurant also features a menu of savory and sweet items. The dosa and idli are highly-regarded choices. When it comes to sweets, the menu includes traditional Indian desserts like Gulab Jamun and Mysore Pak, as well as American-style treats like brownies and cheesecakes. The quality of the food and the overall value for the price are the main draws for most patrons. While some visitors have noted that the food can be a bit oily or that a particular dish may not have enough of a certain ingredient, the overall consensus is that the food is wholesome, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The wholesome nature of the meals, the budget-friendly prices, and the warm, community-focused atmosphere make Govinda's Vegetarian Lunch a destination worth seeking out for a fulfilling and peaceful meal in Downtown Brooklyn.

Govinda's Vegetarian Lunch

305 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11217, USA