Athithi Dhevo Bhava
The guest is God.
That love for all is priceless, so is the food here at Annalakshmi. You eat as you like, pay as you feel. From the friendly faces of the voluntary helpers to the delicious, home-cooked vegetarian food, it’s all about spreading the joy of goodness in this part of the universe. For the volunteers, it’s to attain some peace and harmony as well, through the act of selfless service. Visitors like us are in for an experience that leads to better understanding of a peace-loving culture and an education in Indian vegetarian cuisine. Not forgetting a visual spectacle in the Temple of Fine Arts.
Without a glance at my improper attire of short pants and slippers, we were welcomed into the house of love. I sincerely apologise for my shameful ignorance.
As I dazed through the colourful, mouth-watering Swayamvara buffet spread, a kind lady of utmost radiance asked if there was a particular dish that I was looking for. The fact was, all I ever wanted were already well presented before me. Resam, kulambu, stir-fried vegetables, thayir, dhal, sambar, podi, raita; the right complements to the pulao rice, dosas, iddlis, puris and chapattis. And some payasam to end the meal. In between, one can order the ubiquitous lassi, among other beverages.
Personally, I love the pulao for its fluffiness and taste. The chapatti was served soft, warm and fragrant. Fantastic. The food at Annalakshmi was exceptional. All dishes were cooked to humble perfection and that's really appetising.
Perhaps it’s true that food tastes best when cooked with love. For me, it was a divine state of taste that I will remember for a long time (especially after several visits to substandard Indian vegetarian restaurants).
Radiohead describes it best.
Everything in its right place.
Annalakshmi
116, Jalan Berhala
Brickfields
50470 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Check out their informative website here.
Click here for Masak-Masak’s Annalakshmi experience.
