Hindu Temple Canteen

- 143-09 Holly Ave, Flushing, NY 11355

In the vibrant tapestry of New York City’s culinary scene, some of the most authentic and soulful experiences are found in the least expected locations. **Hindu Temple Canteen**, officially known as the **Ganesh Temple Canteen**, located in the heart of **Flushing, Queens**, is a prime example. Categorized as a **South Indian restaurant, Cafeteria, and Indian restaurant**, this establishment is far more than just a place to eat—it's a cultural cornerstone that has earned a reputation across the New York region for providing genuine, home-style **South Indian vegetarian food**.

The canteen’s history traces back to its original purpose of preparing "naivedyam" (food offerings) for the deities of the Hindu Temple Society of North America. This spiritual foundation inherently ensures the food is prepared with care and purity, a tradition that shines through in the quality and flavor of every dish. Operating in a **casual, quiet atmosphere**, it provides a welcomed retreat from the usual bustle of Queens. It's a highly versatile spot, perfectly suited for **Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining**, but equally accommodating for **Groups** and **Tourists** seeking an authentic taste of India.

What sets the Hindu Temple Canteen apart is its commitment to traditional South Indian fare, making it a beloved destination for everything from crispy **Dosa Varieties**—like the **Mysore Masala ($7.00)** and **Paper Dosa ($7.00)**—to soft, steamed cakes like **Idli ($5.00)** and savory lentil donuts like **Vada (4 for $5.00)**. The cafeteria setup means the focus is on efficient, high-quality service, delivering comfort food, healthy, **Vegan options**, and **Vegetarian options** at remarkably moderate and affordable prices, a major draw for budget-conscious New Yorkers.

The dining experience is often described by local users as “nostalgic” and “soulful,” with customers frequently highlighting the authenticity of the food, noting that items like the **Mysore Masala Dosa is as authentic as it can get**. This is a place where every item, from the **Tamarind Rice ($3.25)** to the strong **Madras Coffee ($1.50)**, speaks to a deep tradition of Indian cooking.

Location and Accessibility

The Hindu Temple Canteen is located at **143-09 Holly Ave, Flushing, NY 11355, USA**. This address places it squarely in a central part of Flushing, Queens, which is a major hub for diverse culture and commerce. While the location is often described as being in the basement of the Ganesh Temple, its setting on Holly Avenue ensures reasonable local accessibility.

Accessibility for all patrons is a key feature of this establishment. The canteen proudly offers **Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating**, making it a welcoming dining option for customers with mobility considerations. For New Yorkers driving, the parking situation is highly flexible, offering **Free parking lot**, **Free street parking**, and **Paid street parking** options, which is a significant amenity in a dense area like Flushing.

Services Offered

The canteen provides a comprehensive range of dining services, covering all major meal times and consumption preferences:

• **Full Dining Options:** Catering to **Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert** with ample **Seating** available.
• **Service Flexibility:** Offering **Dine-in**, **Takeout**, and **Delivery** options to suit any schedule or need.
• **Onsite Services:** Available for customers visiting the temple or the community center.
• **Catering:** Providing services for larger events and functions, extending its reach into the broader New York community.
• **Child-Friendly Amenities:** Equipped with **High chairs**, making it a **Good for kids** choice for families.
• **Modern Payments:** Accepting both **Credit cards** and **Debit cards** for easy transactions.
• **Convenience:** Providing essential **Amenities** like a clean **Restroom** for guests.

Features / Highlights

The standout features of the Hindu Temple Canteen have made it a widely recognized and frequently praised establishment across the New York metropolitan area:

• **Unmatched Authenticity:** Customers consistently praise the food for being genuinely **authentic South Indian**, often described as “home style.” The **Mysore Masala Dosa** is a particularly recommended dish for its traditional flavor.
• **Exceptional Beverages:** The canteen is known for having **Great coffee** and a **Great tea selection**, including a strong, flavorful **Madras Coffee ($1.50)** and **Masala Tea ($2.00)**.
• **Affordability and Value:** Dishes are priced moderately, making the canteen a destination for delicious, filling, vegetarian food **without breaking the bank**.
• **Comprehensive Menu:** A large selection of **South Indian Tiffin Items** and different **Dosa Varieties** ensures there is something for every palate, including healthy options and dedicated **Small plates** for quick bites.
• **Atmosphere and Comfort:** The **Casual, Quiet** atmosphere is a major plus, offering a relaxed environment suitable for **Solo dining** or enjoying a meal with **Groups**.
• **Accessibility and Parking:** Rare for a New York City eatery, the availability of a **Free parking lot** alongside accessible facilities enhances its convenience significantly.

Contact Information

For New Yorkers interested in visiting or inquiring about takeout and delivery, the Hindu Temple Canteen can be reached at:

Address: **143-09 Holly Ave, Flushing, NY 11355, USA**

Phone: **(718) 460-8493**

What is Worth Choosing

The **Hindu Temple Canteen** is worth choosing for any New Yorker seeking an **authentic, delicious, and incredibly affordable South Indian vegetarian meal** in a uniquely peaceful and accessible setting. Its reputation, built on decades of serving simple, soulful food, speaks volumes. You should choose this canteen if you appreciate:

• **Authentic, Home-Style Cooking:** The quality of the food is a testament to the fact that it originated as a devotional offering. For dishes like dosas, idli, and vada, this is arguably the gold standard in Queens.
• **Exceptional Value:** The combination of generous portions, low prices (with many core items priced under $8), and free parking makes it an outstanding choice for dining out without the typical NYC expense.
• **A Relaxed Dining Experience:** Unlike many bustling city eateries, the **Casual, Quiet** atmosphere within the temple complex provides a soothing backdrop for your meal.
• **Complete Convenience:** With options for **Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery**, full **Accessibility**, and multiple parking options, the canteen removes common urban dining barriers.

In short, if you are craving genuine South Indian comfort food—from the **Upma ($6.50)** to the strong **filter coffee**—the Hindu Temple Canteen in Flushing offers a memorable, high-value experience that will transport your taste buds right back to the South, and it is a must-visit destination for New York food enthusiasts.

Hindu Temple Canteen

143-09 Holly Ave, Flushing, NY 11355, USA