Ananda Fuara

Description:

• This vegetarian restaurant, run by the Bay Area chapter of India's Sri Chinmoy religious sect, hosts an eclectic mix of serious vegans and Civic Center business types. The female waitstaff all wear brilliantly colored saris, while a TV plays an endless loop of Mr. Chinmoy alternately meditating, preaching, and performing feats of strength. Neatloaf--a mix of brown rice, ricotta, eggs, tofu, onions and spices--paired with mashed potatoes and mushroom gravy, is the much-praised house specialty. Also popular are veggie burgers, vegetarian burritos and samosas with chutney. Breakfast is served until 11am, and the low prices and satisfying hotcakes (multigrain or buttermilk), scrambled tofu and various omelettes make it worth the trip. Beverages include herbal teas, traditional Indian lassi drinks, lattes and of course, the requisite smoothies.

Awards:

CitySearch

•  Vegetarian Food 2006 – Audience Winner