About Us
Our Story
Established in 1984, Annalakshmi is a culinary sanctuary with a distinctive genesis. Conceived by His Holiness Swami Shantanand Saraswathi, affectionately known as Swamiji, a revered Hindu monk from India, the restaurant pays homage to the culinary mastery of mothers and grandmothers within the community. Swamiji empowered these skilled homemakers, who had diligently nurtured their families, to share their culinary artistry with the broader community.
Each day, Annalakshmi serves the community a delightful array of dishes, including kulambu, sambar, rasam, dhall, chapatti, raita, pickles, curds, and pappadam. The restaurant’s philosophy revolves around creating a home away from home, where patrons can savor to their heart’s content. Beyond the gastronomic delights, the Annalakshmi experience is enriched by a shared sense of love among diners, fostering a connection even among strangers.
Embraced by a culturally rich setting adorned with intricately carved wood sculptures and icons, Annalakshmi emanates a warm rustic ambience. The restaurant proudly displays various art pieces, all available for purchase. Recognizing food as a pivotal aspect of culture, Annalakshmi seamlessly integrates it with art, music, and dance, capturing the essence of Indian culture. The establishment aims to preserve the heritage of Indian vegetarian cooking, offering a diverse, flavorful, and wholesome culinary experience.
Originally located in a shoplot on Jalan Maarof, Bangsar Baru, Kuala Lumpur, Annalakshmi has evolved and now resides within the grandeur of the 5-storey Temple of Fine Arts at 114-116 Jalan Berhala, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. Nestled in the crescent-shaped Jalan Berhala, overlooking the Klang River and facing the century-old Buddhist Maha Vihara, the temple stands as a sanctuary of the arts. Annalakshmi Restaurant, situated on the ground floor of the Temple of Fine Arts, continues to provide a warm and inviting space for patrons to relish piping hot traditional delights, creating a sense of homecoming with each visit. The pleasure, as always, is a shared joy within the Annalakshmi family.
Our Seva
Annalakshmi, operating as a not-for-profit restaurant, has dedicated itself to community service through initiatives such as supporting the arts, contributing to the Sivasanta Medical Centre, and providing nourishment to those in need. Once operational costs are covered, our funds are channeled into these impactful activities.
