Anna Lakshmi Restaurant in Köln

The ambience is simple. But it's definitely made up for by the service and the food. Definitely a recommendation.

Absolute insider tip! Authentic, delicious Indian food in the middle of Cologne.

I would have liked to have been able to give my review without stars because I actually want to support this nice, family restaurant. Unfortunately, we weren't convinced. We waited 1.5 hours for our food - when it finally came, I was no longer hungry after my starter (Paneer Pakora). Unfortunately, the quality of the food was rather low, in keeping with the low price. The lovely and friendly owner does her best and tries to make all guests happy, but unfortunately that wasn't possible that evening. There were a lot of customers, but not enough staff. Since the restaurant is small and we were there for so long, the intense smell of cooking and the long waiting time made us feel a little nauseous. I'm giving it 4 stars because I want to support the restaurant, but I hope my review will help future guests.

Update: unfortunately the waiting time is sometimes far too long. Everything comes to the table at a different time. Either you don't eat together or the food is cold 🫠Last time we ordered different dishes, but in the end we all received the same thing - a bit unfortunate and strange. Then the menu should be adjusted. The place is more of a bistro than a restaurant. So far we've really enjoyed everything. All dishes are actually vegan unless you add something animal. If you can't decide, you'll get good advice. Especially the samosas and all the other fried little things are incredibly tasty! Be sure to try the sweet ones too 🥰 The only disadvantage is that you sometimes have to be prepared for a long waiting time. The owner is so welcoming that we immediately felt like we were at grandma's house. You rarely meet so much humanity. Simple, delicious, protein-rich food to fill you up and inexpensive.

Firstly it is a sir lankian restro... food is wrost here .. the food is nothing near indian.

Absolutely wonderful, food is like a hug, just like the service - it just feels like your grandmothers in the living room, only in South Indian style. Strong recommendation!

I love the food and the grandma there is very friendly 🫶🏼

superbbbb … home feeling … extraordinary taste my aunty

Best place in the city. Good quality and amazing service!!! I would recommend this place to absolutely everyone! You feel like home

The cutest, sweetest granny takes our order, cooks it, and makes our tummy and heart full. This was a great, homely, wonderful experience. I spoke the language she did and it made it even more wonderful

We visited Anna Lakshmi on Monday evening. She gave us various recommendations and always seemed enthusiastic and happy: this was also reflected in the food. We felt like we were in Sri Lanka or India, very authentic. Thank you Anna!🫶🏽

I've been going to Anna Lakshmi's for years and am thrilled by the delicious, authentic food and the super friendly service! From a culinary point of view, the various dishes always take me back to my time in Sri Lanka. There are also various pastries, rolls, samosas and much more. which are also recommended and I would like to take home with me :) I now find the prices to be very low and they haven't increased since I've been eating here, but that can be made up for with tips. Tip: Take cash with you as you cannot pay by card.

Ammmmmmazing food. Tastes very authentic. You can tell them if you want it spicy. The lady is very sweet and welcoming. The restaurant might not be good looking but the food makes up for it. We tried veg biryani and kottu parota , and both were greatttttt.

Comida increíble. Puedes decirles si lo quieres picante. La señora es muy dulce y acogedor. El restaurante puede ser atractivo, pero la comida es totalmente genial.

Super great service! The food was incredibly tasty and... there was a large selection. Definitely worth a visit.

Super delicious authentic food, the owner is super friendly and warm. Lakshmi was recommended to me by several friends, I can only recommend it to others🫶🏼

The food was really good and the service was super sweet

Mega tasty, cheap and authentic! We've tried a variety of things and it always tastes great. We always like to come back!

Super tasty and authentic food! Also very fair prices and very friendly owners. Absolutely recommended ☺️

The owner is very warm and helpful. I've been eating lamb curry for years and am satisfied. In my opinion the prices are not appropriate for today's times, but you can make up for it with a good tip. I can recommend it to anyone who has some time, also good for students on a budget. Please remember to bring cash as we do not offer card payments. Anyone who doesn't expect luxury and can be content with less will feel super comfortable in this modest place and have found a gem! I can recommend it!

Very tasty food Very friendly and very warm staff. Overall happy with everything and would love to come back

I had my lunch there in Lakshmi Restaurant. It was quiet empty as I was there around 15:30. The owner very warmly welcomed me.I should say that this is the cheapest Indian restaurant I have ever been in Germany and food was very good.Also the quantity is surprisingly huge. I will recommend it to anyone who wants to grab the taste of south Indian cuisines at very affordable price…

Mega! That was a real piece of Sri Lanka in Cologne. At Anna Lakschmi you immediately feel like you are in a family-run restaurant in Sri Lanka. The food is not only incredibly tasty, but also super inexpensive. I felt like I was back in Sri Lanka. The hostess is very friendly and passionately ensures that everyone feels comfortable. Please support such authentic restaurants - unfortunately they have become a rarity in Cologne! 5 stars

Sehr leckeres Essen, sehr nette Service! Alles sehr authentisch und auch wenn sehr einfach mit viel Liebe gemacht. Werde öfter hingehen.

Buena comida, gran gente. Preguntó por un menú compartido, que no estaba en el menú. ¡Pero lo tenemos, lo comimos, nos encantó! Recomendaría 10 / 10!

Good food in an unconventional atmosphere With very friendly service

probably one of my favorite restaurants, I'm so happy and full and content with the world every time I've eaten here 😄 my original review from 7 years ago says, the shop hasn't lost anything in 2024!

Great, authentic restaurant run with passion and super friendly staff.

Wow, that was fantastic authentic food and home-made tea made from Indian spices. The ambience is less cozy, but I'm all about the cuisine. It's been a long time since I've had such good Indian food. THANKS.

Super delicious authentic food. Very nice service and very cheap. I'll definitely come back here :)

The food was delicious; and for that price (10euros for a plate of rice and curry) it was unbelievable. Its sri lankan for sure: it tasted exactly the same (or even better!) as the food I had when I was in Sri Lanka. And aunty is superfriendly. I loved this place and will absolutely return! Estuthi!

Authenticity on all levels: in the food, in the ambience and in the owner couple. The food is delicious and always reminds me of my trips to Sri Lanka and South India. Soul food for wanderlust 🧡

We have loved Anna Lakshmi's food for several years. Just a stone's throw from the city library or Neumarkt, you can get homemade Sri Lankan specialties at really reasonable prices and served with love. Everything about this restaurant is authentic - from the owner, the service, the ambience, the dishes to the food. My children insist on a few samosas on every trip to the city center - sometimes sold quite casually from the restaurant window. One of my favorite recommendations in all of Cologne!

Food is good and somehow tasty, but not authentic Indian taste at all, too much adapted to German taste, this is quite often in Germany. Waiting on main dish from promised 10 minutes expanded to almost 30, more then 20 for sure, with only two other persons in restaurant at lunch time. Served by old sweet and nice lady, but life stops when you step in this place. This could even be great experience if you know how to enjoy Indian understanding of life and time. Ambient is also many years behind time. It could be great experience if you wish to understand authentic Indian mindset little better with new adventure, because here is not about money and business, but how to live unstressfull life.

I love the food here. Especially, I liked the fish curry and rice. I would recommend you to try fish curry here. Thanks

I was looking for a proper South Indian style food and this was not the place .. sambar was not real South Indian styled, kothu was ok, veg biryani is not really a biriyani at all.. meals side dish was very very less and very less rice quantity as well.. may be Srilankan style food. Not again..

Really good and authentic food! Like in Skri Lanka and the service is super friendly

Honestly the two stars was just for the effort and the service of the aunty there. So kind and nice! The price is also affordable. It's just in the main street near Neumarkt.But the food is really bland. Kothu rotti was fine I guess but nothing special.

Like at grandma's house, only in Sri Lankan

Today we were only in the store for a short time because we urgently had to go to the toilet. We were greeted by a very warm older lady who offered this to us with the utmost ease and friendliness. This gesture surprised us so positively that we took a closer look at the store - we would probably never have come across it without this occasion. The food we saw on site looked incredibly appetizing. We spontaneously decided to take some naan bread with us on the go, and what can we say? It was simply fantastic! We were so impressed by the taste that we are sure we will be back very soon to try the other dishes too. A big thank you for this wonderful hospitality - you don't often find such warmth these days. We are already looking forward to the next visit!🩷

This restaurant is absolutely unique. Anna is the sweetest person you can imagine. Sri Lankan food is cooked here and it's delicious. The ambience is authentic - you feel like you're on vacation. However, if you are looking for fine, white tablecloths and uniform furniture, you should go to the Ritz. Everything here is real and kept simple. Unfortunately, the prices do not correspond to the service - I therefore recommend giving a VERY GENEROUS tip! We have often ordered takeaway for parties here and have never been disappointed. The food from here was always the first to go. If I could I would give more stars. <3

Garlic naan very tasty, palak paneer not the best but tea very good

NOT recommended!!!!!!!!!!!! Never again!!!! Really 0 out of 10

I've never eaten so well! Tried 3 main courses and some starters and everything was a smooth 10/10 There is no saving in the portions. You get an incredible amount for your money and I'm a really good eater Service is also top. The older lady who serves you is sugar! Such a lovely woman Absolute recommendation

Great food, unbeatable price. There is a deduction for starters that have only been warmed up in the microwave (but only €1) and the unfortunately very unappetizing toilet. We will still come back again and again!

I am convinced that this is the best dining experience in Cologne. I have lived here 4 years. The vibes are immaculate. The owner is one of the kindest people you'll come across. The food is top notch Sri Lankan. The atmosphere is relaxed. Bring time and love. :) -Des

I loved this the second time we were there and apart from the treatment that is very affectionate, the food is spectacular, a lot of variety, it is the second time we are there and we would return again

We always come here :) very friendly and familiar, owner-managed with a lot of love. Try it out and spread the word :-)

We love Auntie. The old lady who still stands in the shop every day. Who always serves with love. So sweet. You'll be forgiven if it takes longer. Sri Lankan food simply 10/10, mango lassis are freshly made on site.

Highly recommended!!! Don't let the exterior of the restaurant put you off. All the dishes we tried there were very good. Price performance is also extremely good. You can hardly find anywhere anymore where you can get good food for little money and in large quantities. The elderly lady is also very polite and sweet. It feels really family-like in this restaurant. And the atmosphere feels like you're on vacation, very simple.

Delicious food, highly recommend!

First class homemade Sri Lankan cuisine and very nice owner

Very tasty food. Tastes like home and very nice owner - highly recommended!

Best food and best woman. Totally nice and courteous lady who always wishes you the best!

Maybe not authentic South Indian food but a good home cooked meal is what you can expect here. We had the Lamm Idiyappam Kothu and Fish Biriyani. Both were not spicy and had only mild flavours. We went here in the winter and it was a relief to have freshly cooked hot food. There was no Masala Chai on the menu however when I asked if it is possible the owner had absolutely no hesitations and the Chai truly had a homemade feel and taste. I think the biggest positive part of this place is the owner. She is very positive and has a warm personality. Of course the place is also cheap in comparison with most Indian / Sri Lankan restaurants. For the price definitely worth trying. Also is open on Mondays which is not so common in this area.

The food was very good and also really cheap. But what left an even stronger impression was the staff. The owner was so incredibly friendly. Thank you very much and please keep it up!! :)

This a small nook in the wall place with absolutely delicious food. I’m a regular customer here because the food is very homely and delicious. Additionally, the chef is a very kind lady who is very friendly and hospitable. Also the food is very affordable.

Delicious. Very friendly. Very authentic.

Authentic home-made cuisine at fair prices in a simple atmosphere. However, the tables could be a little less sticky or could use new tablecloths.

no time for vacation? Here you immediately feel like you are in Sri Lanka. Anna is super nice and cooks everything fresh! The tea with spices is a great drink to warm up in winter!

Food was very tasty and the boss was super nice. The best hostess I have eaten with in a long time

Authentic Indian Restaurant Highly Recommended!

Insider tip 🌟 Take some time and enjoy super delicious Indian cuisine (most of it vegan) with a super kind lady who serves and gives information! The focus here is on cozy food and great spices 🍛 we tried everything and took a few things to take home with us - the prices are unbeatable! I could eat here every day 🫠🫠 we'll be back Tip: vada masala and the vegetable pakora WOW and the Sri Lankan specialty with the shredded roti is amazing 💙

The restaurant has changed its location and it is very bad

Familiar, loving, friendly, delicious. Mom serves and dad cooks. Feel like at home.

Went for a take away, nice little cozy place. I am surprised how cheap it was, not just cheap very cheap when compared to other places. I gave her a tip and she went and even brought samosas for free.

Great food takes time. Grandma took that time and that's not a bad thing at all. Food was rich, creamy and spicy. And that for 13,- pp including drink

The food is a 10/10. Extremely cheap and huge portions. Bring a little time. But it's worth it! The furnishings are kept very simple. But after all, you’re here for food. Gladly again!

Very tasty food. Worth for money🔥

No frills hidden gem ! Highly recommended.

I just left the restaurant with a big smile in my face. The owner is super sweet and friendly, somehow I felt at home (even though I am not from Sri Lanka/India - I'm from South America)

For the first time in my life, I was here. Incredibly good. Please note that you should have no issue with spicy food. Here it is like eating at home, so you should not expect fast services. A kind woman(owner) manners with all of guests so kindly. Really recommend all of the people who are looking for something spicy and homemade taste.

Such a great restaurant. We usually order lunch there once a week and also eat here in the evenings from time to time, for example with visitors. The Koththu, for example, is simply great, but all the other dishes I have tried so far have also been great. The owner is incredibly nice and friendly and also sells delicious snacks (samosas etc.) out of the window.

With the best Indian or Sri Lankan food in Cologne. Everything is freshly prepared and really home cooked. The owner is incredibly friendly. The decor is simple, the food is like a trip to Sri Lanka or India. The quality is very good and the price-performance ratio is unique.

Very nice, simple, friendly, delicious neighborhood restaurant with authentic Sinhalese cuisine. The boss is a hit! Gladly again and again!

Amazing food, friendly service and very affordable

A restaurant that deserves 5 stars because of the warm atmosphere. Super nice owner, the food is outstanding and the prices are great for today's standards! Regular guest!

Try the veg or chicken thali, all in one for a good price. Authentic taste and friendly people.

Food was very tasty. Price is very nominal. Any drinks is €2, I loved this and enjoyed few beers. Don't expect a top class atmosphere and speedy service. The lady who owns this, does everything from cooking to serving. So don't hesitate to self serve yourself. Big salute to the lady serving yummy food at nominal price.

Very good food, authentic and great service!

The culinary experience was delightful, with flavors that evoked the comforting essence of home-cooked meals. The fish curry stood out as my favorite, offering an authentic taste that was truly remarkable. Additionally, the lamb kothu is a must-try, bursting with exquisite flavors that should not be missed.

Fantastic food and very reasonably priced. The owner is authentic and serves personally at every table. There were five of us men and we got very full for just 65 euros including starters and drinks. Strong recommendation from me.

freundliche Bedienung. leckeres Essen, guter Preis für eine ordentlich Portion. Am biente könnte besser sein (hässliche Plastiktischdecken,...)

Excellent South Indian food! Super kind and patient Aunty/Owner. Family owned and operated. Note that this restaurant is cash only. Don't stress that they don't speak English, curry, butter chicken, naan, samosa are all still the same words in a German Indian restaurant. Can't recommend this place highly enough, one of the best dinners we had in Cologne and the least expensive! Just over €10 per person with 2 beers!

Very tasty food Real taste and family atmosphere

Delicious, cheap and authentic food! A clear recommendation and I am very happy about this chance find!

Was at the window for the first time today. I went there with no expectations and what can I say. I have rarely seen such a welcoming shop in Cologne. From the I don't even want to start with the price, but where else can you get naan for EUR 1.50. I will definitely come back!

Food is amazing, service a bit slow, but I guess that's because she wants to do everything herself. She seems lovely, and they will actually make your food properly spicy if you ask 😋 Prices are fantastic for what you get.

Rarely have Indian food been eaten so well and, above all, cheaply. Super friendly owner. The restaurant is very simple and spartan, but it's still fun to spend time there. Always happy.

Authentic food, lovely Host and homely atmosphere. I make it a point to have a meal from here, every time I visit Köln.

Taste, price and quantity very good The owner/cook is very friendly and takes customer requests into account

Authentic food. Really authentic and Amma is really kind and sweet....

Eine authentische kleine Reise nach SriLanka! Ein wahrer Geheimtipp! Das Essen ist eine Geschmacksexplosion, die Wirtin unfassbar nett und die Köche wirklich gut! Wer hätte gedacht, dass dieses kleine Lokal ein weiteres echtes Highlight in unserem Köln-Besuch ist und einem für einen kurzen Moment vermittelt, in Sri Lanka zu sein. Wir kommen bald wieder nach Köln und wenn es nur für dieses kleine Restaurant ist😀

Authentic and super delicious Indian food. The owner does everything herself and tries very hard. You'll have to wait a bit but it's worth it!! Very tasty and inexpensive ☺️

Kindest woman in the world! Eat there all the time! I'm a huge Sri Lankan fan and this is the only restaurant in the area that offers authentic Sri Lankan cuisine!

Great place, good food, amazing hospitality, felt at home right away.

We ordered takeaway food. Service was super friendly and the food was delicious. Our little one also liked everything. Price/performance top. Be sure to stop by there!

Curry and naan were delicious, but chicken biryani could have been better. Service was excellent

The food tasted authentic and the service was friendly. I can recommend it. However, I have to admit that the restaurant definitely needs to be redecorated. At first glance it looked like the restaurant was under renovation, but that wasn't the case. The chairs and tables are outdated and the walls are pale. The restaurant needs a new look to attract more customers. I wanted to go back to the entrance. There is definitely potential here.

The food was amazing, and very authentic! Idlis were my favorite, but the palak paneer was also very good and home style. The garlic naan, while not traditional, was a very pleasant surprise. The coconut chutney and sambhar were amazing, and the kotthu roti was pretty good! I did not expect to find such good Sri Lankan and South Indian (Tamil) food in Cologne.