Annam Restaurant

In the heart of Canberra's city centre, within the Waldorf Building on Akuna Street, sits Annam Restaurant. This South Indian dining spot brings the vibrant, aromatic flavours of the subcontinent to the Australian Capital Territory. Focused on authenticity and value, Annam has quickly become a go-to for those seeking genuine South Indian cuisine in a convenient, central location.

The restaurant describes itself as "A Rasam Initiative," hinting at a deeper culinary heritage rooted in the comforting, spiced lentil and tamarind broth that is a staple in South Indian households. This dedication to tradition is reflected in a menu that prioritises flavour without compromising on accessibility. Whether you're a local worker looking for a fulfilling lunch or a student seeking an affordable yet delicious meal, Annam provides a welcoming space and a menu designed to satisfy.

Customer feedback consistently highlights the restaurant's ability to deliver "authentic dishes at an excellent value for money, full of flavor." This sentiment is echoed across Google Maps reviews, where diners praise the richness and aroma of the food, with one reviewer specifically noting they were "delighted by the Biryani – it was rich and aromatic." This commitment to quality and affordability positions Annam as a distinctive dining experience in Canberra's competitive food landscape.

Menu Highlights at Annam Restaurant

While the full menu is best explored in-person or via their official website, customer reviews offer a vivid preview of what makes Annam's offerings special. The consistent theme across all feedback is intense, well-developed flavour and generous portions at accessible price points.

Signature South Indian Curries

Google Maps reviewers have specifically called out the chicken and fish curries as being "very tasty and perfectly prepared." These dishes form the backbone of South Indian non-vegetarian cuisine, typically featuring a complex blend of freshly ground spices, coconut, and curry leaves that create a rich, layered flavour profile distinct from other regional Indian cuisines.

Rich & Aromatic Biryani

A standout dish according to patrons is the Biryani. One reviewer described it as "rich and aromatic," a testament to the slow-cooking process that defines a great Biryani. This layered rice and meat dish is a celebration of South Indian culinary artistry, and Annam's version appears to be a highlight for many who visit.

An Excellent Student Offer

A unique and highly valued aspect of Annam Restaurant is its student-friendly pricing. A reviewer pointed out that the restaurant is "ideal for students" as it offers a "good student offer and affordable prices." This initiative makes high-quality, authentic South Indian food accessible to the student population in Canberra, building a loyal customer base and creating a bustling, inclusive atmosphere.

The Dining Experience

Annam Restaurant offers a functional and contemporary dining environment situated within a modern city building. The focus is clearly on the food and quick, efficient service, making it an ideal spot for a lunch break or a casual dinner. The atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, catering to a diverse clientele that includes office professionals, families, and university students.

According to its Google Maps listing, the restaurant provides a variety of service options to suit different needs. For those who wish to enjoy their meal on-site, dine-in service is available. For customers on the go, in-store pickup is an option, and for those who prefer to dine at home or in their office, no-contact delivery can be arranged. This flexibility ensures that Annam's food is accessible regardless of a customer's schedule or preference.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Annam Restaurant has made a strong early impression on its patrons, earning a perfect 5.0-star rating on Google Maps. While the total number of reviews is currently modest, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive and provides a clear picture of what customers can expect.

A review from a Local Guide with over 70 reviews calls out the "authentic dishes to an excellent price-performance ratio, full of flavor." Another diner succinctly rated both the food and service a perfect 5 out of 5. Jewel Sarah Shibu, a local reviewer, provided a more detailed account, mentioning she was "delighted by the Biryani," found the chicken and fish curries "very tasty," and explicitly recommended it for students due to the excellent student deals and affordability. These Google Maps reviews consistently confirm that Annam Restaurant delivers on its core promise of flavour and value, making it a highly recommended choice in Canberra.

Annam Restaurant in Canberra's City Centre

Located at Unit 137, 2 Akuna Street, in the Waldorf Building, Annam Restaurant is positioned right in the thick of Canberra's central business district. This prime location makes it a convenient dining choice for anyone working, studying, or visiting the city centre. The area is well-served by public transport and is within easy walking distance of major shopping areas, government offices, and the Australian National University, further solidifying its appeal to students and professionals alike.

As a city-centre establishment, Annam is easily accessible and contributes to the diverse culinary landscape of Civic. The Waldorf Building address places it near other commercial and retail outlets, making it a perfect stop during a day of errands or after work. The restaurant's commitment to dine-in, pickup, and delivery means it integrates seamlessly into the fast-paced rhythm of city life.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

Annam Restaurant operates with a schedule designed to capture the key weekday meal periods, with weekend service focused on dinner.

• Breakfast & Lunch: Monday to Friday, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
• Dinner: Monday to Saturday (Opening shortly, as stated on the website)

For reservations, the restaurant's website at annam.au provides a direct "Make a Reservation" feature. This is the recommended method to secure a table, especially during busy lunch hours. For general inquiries, takeout orders, or to confirm dinner timings, you can contact them directly by phone at +61 490 113 551 or by email at canberra.annam@gmail.com.

Common Questions About Annam Restaurant

What type of cuisine does Annam Restaurant specialize in?

Annam Restaurant specializes in South Indian cuisine. It is a South Indian restaurant, as confirmed by its Google Maps category and website description as "A Rasam Initiative," referencing a classic South Indian dish.

Where is Annam Restaurant located in Canberra?

The restaurant is located in the Canberra city centre at Unit 137, 2 Akuna Street, within the Waldorf Building, Canberra ACT 2601.

Does Annam Restaurant offer delivery?

Yes, according to its Google Maps listing, Annam Restaurant offers no-contact delivery, in-store pickup, and dine-in service.

Is Annam Restaurant suitable for students?

Yes, several Google Maps reviewers explicitly mention that Annam offers excellent value for money and a specific student offer, making it a very affordable and popular choice for students in the area.

What are the best dishes at Annam Restaurant?

Based on customer reviews, the Biryani is a standout dish, praised for being "rich and aromatic." The chicken and fish curries are also highly recommended for being "very tasty and perfectly prepared."

How can I make a reservation at Annam Restaurant?

You can make a reservation directly through their official website, annam.au, using the "Make a Reservation" feature. You can also call them at +61 490 113 551.

What are the operating hours of Annam Restaurant?

For Breakfast and Lunch, they are open Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Dinner service is available Monday through Saturday; the website notes this is "Opening shortly," so it's advisable to call and confirm or check their website for the most current dinner hours.