Living the Southern ideal at Anaga Spice Kitchen & Bar

Telugu restaurants have sprung up all over the city in recent months, each trying to outdo the other with a burst of fiery taste. But Anaga Spice Kitchen & Bar in Jubilee Hills is a standout for anyone looking for both delicious food and an engaging atmosphere. With 130 seats, this recently opened regional specialty restaurant is the creation of four friends who are passionate about the food and beverage sector.

When you first walk in, the furnishings catch your eye right away. Vibrant Golu dolls cover one corner, while a sitting area with subdued earthy tones of beige and red contrasts with a central green space filled with plants in antique pots that evoke memories of South Indian temple sites. Additionally, lovely unique lights that shine on each table create a mystical atmosphere. The name “Anaga” itself is a reference to “Anaganaganaga” (once upon a time) bedtime tales recounted by grandparents, in addition to its rustic South Indian-inspired décor.

We started our culinary exploration of regional flavors with Hyderabadi marag soup, a flavorful mutton broth with an earthy undertone. We then gorged ourselves on Bangla Kodi chips, which are crispy potato-coated, spice-marinated pieces of chicken. The Mutton Haleem, which came next, was a pleasant surprise and maybe one of the greatest haleems we’ve had in a while. Dum ka Murgh, a dish whose presentation and flavors struck a home run, brought the feast to a close. A crispy outer layer of seasoned keema was served on an ice cream stick that looked like a Popsicle. The main course pleasures, which included Godavari Korameenu Grill, Butter Chicken with Butter Naan, Pandu Mirchi Chicken, Natu Kodi with Ragi Mudda, and Chicken 65 Biryani, were complemented by the flavorful Lamb Chops. Every dish showcased the region’s exceptional culinary skills, expertly harmonizing heat and spice.

The grand finale was Zafrani Nimish, a regional version of the dessert Daulat ki Chaat from Delhi. With khoya at the bottom and cream foam and pistachios on top, this dish had a delicate saffron flavor.

Every meal at Anaga has a narrative, making it a pleasant experience for individuals who are wanting delicious regional food with a twist.