We've been dining at Ananda in Fulton since it opened in 2014. At that time, I wrote a very positive review of the restaurant and haven't really found the need to write another since Ananda has consistently delivered the best fine dining experience available in Howard County for 10+ years. However, our most recent visit made me change my mind, thus the updated review. From the moment we were greeted at the door to the time we said our goodbyes to our expert server, Said (who is the most welcoming and gracious human on planet Earth), the experience was extraordinary. First, Said brought us complimentary champagne to help us celebrate our anniversary. This was followed by the appetizer course, which included Kaddu (this year made with Delicata squash) and Kerala Cakes (flavorful lump crab cakes). Both were outstanding. Our entrees were also gastronomic delights; more exceptional than any other meal we have had at Ananda this year or anywhere else for that matter. These included the Dharmashala Duck and the wild-caught Halibut, both of which were masterfully prepared and bursting with flavor. If you have not been to Ananda, or haven't been back in a while, now is the time to experience Howard's preeminent restaurant. I really can't say enough good things about the elegant ambiance, the consistently delicious food, the gracious staff, and the always charming owner/host, Binda Singh. Simply the best.
Baba Harsh
I went in a Saturday, busy night. We got a nice cozy spot near the fireplace. To start, the table was so tall it came to my chest and I stand at 5'11. Not that big of a deal but worth noting. Second as I was placing the order for appetizers, I was told to place the order for food as well and felt rushed. We wanted more time to think about the entrees. We order Medium Spicy and they thought we said Spicy. They delivered the wrong entree and tried to convince it was right and encouraged me to eat it. They came back and told me it was their mistake and gave me the correct entree. Still couldn't imeat it because it was so spicy. $250+ later I left hungry and disappointed.
The worst part is absolutely hate having to pack my own left overs at a fairly upscale sitdown restaurant.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 3
Queen B
ANANDA is a total hidden gem! The food is beautifully plated, packed with bold, fresh flavors, and feels both modern and comforting. The atmosphere is chic but welcoming, and the staff make the experience feel personal. Perfect spot for a special dinner or when you want something a little elevated.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
NorthStar739381
It’s a very spacious restaurant and well laid out with great and friendly staff especially the Sardar Ji serving water- very kind and unique idea. My few observations: * Restaurant has no signage and no immediate direction towards parking and parking area is very dark. * We were seated in a separate room as we had small kids(very considerate). *We ordered Half Tandoori chicken ( I would suggest to cut at least half so easy to share and there was hardly any meat on it. *Second dish was Shrimp(real jumbo)was very mild and more towards sweeter side(could be as I saw lots of American clientele), but didn’t really suited our expectations. *** Third dish was Chicken Biryani, which was not close to actual Biryani, but I must acknowledge that Sayeed(did mention Ananda’s style), still couldn’t picture until was served. ( I would strongly recommend that if the real Biryani is served every single customer would Love it), as I am very frequent traveler and have patronized multiple Indian high end restaurants. *Please serve the green mint and tamarind chutneys with certain dishes as they deserve them as accompaniments. * special mention for Sayeed who was very friendly and experienced individual- makes everyone visit very enjoyable. Thanks to Sardar Ji… Sat Sri Akal. This was our first visit and the occasion was Celebrating our 40th, Wedding Anniversary. Overall good experience.
April Loves Yoga
I have frequented Ananda since its opening. It never disappoints. All stars for every aspect of the dining experience to include exceptionally flavored dishes , outstanding ( perfect to be honest) customer service, and the decor and atmosphere is top notch.
Worth every penny! Yummy food. Kind service. Humble staff. Great parking. Hidden gem. Drinks were made to perfection.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Eric Sigman
Ananda was difficult to find without phone GPS due to lack of signage. However, for a nice and open air seating experience that transports you to a more middle eastern / Asian experience this is where you want to go. Everything from the decor to the seating brings together a great experience. There is an indoor dining area, but the crux of things are both outside and in a patio space which can be enclosed. This space features two fireplaces and fans, meaning it's likely used year round.
I went on a Tuesday so I can't tell you if it gets loud when busy, but I imagine the open air seating allows for more normal volume conversations. The wait staff was very on top of things and water glasses were always full.
As far as pricing expect to pay around. $30 or more for larger entrees and around $17 or more for smaller plates. Appetizers and sides vary on price.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
MJ Robbins
This place has top-notch food but even better service. Said and the entire staff were incredible.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
mintu biswas
Last week me and my family were at the restaurant for dinner on our trip to dc we found this restaurant and think of trying it once everything is was perfect it’s not like other Indian restaurants Rahul was servering us that he gave us good cocktails and food recommendations love this place will try next time when we come back
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ayla Belleza
Lovely establishment with tasty cuisines. Service was also excellent. Try the samosas and chicken tandoori. So much flavor.
Nice ambiance and location but food leaves a lot to be desired.
We ordered spicy food. What we got was bland food.
Mind you this is after the waitress described that they offer different levels of spicy.
They did not listen to our request.
The food was cold when delivered.
A fly was in my water. I showed it to the waitress. No apology. I got a laugh instead.
This restaurant is coasting through with mediocre food. How long?
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 3
Rajiv
My wife and I have been to Ananda several times now and every time it has been great. The service is wonderful. The food is flavorful. We moved to Howard County 6 months ago and this is one of our staple restaurants. The owner, Binda, has been great to us. Sayed is extremely friendly and attentive. Rahul slings tasty cocktails. My favorite is the goat curry and lamb vindaloo. The service, the venue and the fun times all are well worth it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Francesca Tomaino
Phenomenal
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
TheNaeKu
A hidden gem. Humble on the outside. A powerhouse on the inside. Literally drove by it as there was no signage outside. This place wasn't on our plan for the day but I'm so glad went found it. Incredible customer service with very accommodating staff. Amazingly elegant yet comfortable esthetic. And to top it off the most amazing food ever. Everything we had was delicious. Taking in everything while dining gave exclusive. We will be back, we just have to!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mina Nana-Anyangwe
Food was delicious. Had to wait to be served.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Lamb Chops, Garlic Naan and Chutney Dip
We've been dining at Ananda in Fulton since it opened in 2014. At that time, I wrote a very positive review of the restaurant and haven't really found the need to write another since Ananda has consistently delivered the best fine dining experience available in Howard County for 10+ years. However, our most recent visit made me change my mind, thus the updated review. From the moment we were greeted at the door to the time we said our goodbyes to our expert server, Said (who is the most welcoming and gracious human on planet Earth), the experience was extraordinary. First, Said brought us complimentary champagne to help us celebrate our anniversary. This was followed by the appetizer course, which included Kaddu (this year made with Delicata squash) and Kerala Cakes (flavorful lump crab cakes). Both were outstanding. Our entrees were also gastronomic delights; more exceptional than any other meal we have had at Ananda this year or anywhere else for that matter. These included the Dharmashala Duck and the wild-caught Halibut, both of which were masterfully prepared and bursting with flavor. If you have not been to Ananda, or haven't been back in a while, now is the time to experience Howard's preeminent restaurant. I really can't say enough good things about the elegant ambiance, the consistently delicious food, the gracious staff, and the always charming owner/host, Binda Singh. Simply the best.
I went in a Saturday, busy night. We got a nice cozy spot near the fireplace. To start, the table was so tall it came to my chest and I stand at 5'11. Not that big of a deal but worth noting. Second as I was placing the order for appetizers, I was told to place the order for food as well and felt rushed. We wanted more time to think about the entrees. We order Medium Spicy and they thought we said Spicy. They delivered the wrong entree and tried to convince it was right and encouraged me to eat it. They came back and told me it was their mistake and gave me the correct entree. Still couldn't imeat it because it was so spicy. $250+ later I left hungry and disappointed.
The worst part is absolutely hate having to pack my own left overs at a fairly upscale sitdown restaurant.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 3
ANANDA is a total hidden gem! The food is beautifully plated, packed with bold, fresh flavors, and feels both modern and comforting. The atmosphere is chic but welcoming, and the staff make the experience feel personal. Perfect spot for a special dinner or when you want something a little elevated.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
It’s a very spacious restaurant and well laid out with great and friendly staff especially the Sardar Ji serving water- very kind and unique idea. My few observations: * Restaurant has no signage and no immediate direction towards parking and parking area is very dark. * We were seated in a separate room as we had small kids(very considerate). *We ordered Half Tandoori chicken ( I would suggest to cut at least half so easy to share and there was hardly any meat on it. *Second dish was Shrimp(real jumbo)was very mild and more towards sweeter side(could be as I saw lots of American clientele), but didn’t really suited our expectations. *** Third dish was Chicken Biryani, which was not close to actual Biryani, but I must acknowledge that Sayeed(did mention Ananda’s style), still couldn’t picture until was served. ( I would strongly recommend that if the real Biryani is served every single customer would Love it), as I am very frequent traveler and have patronized multiple Indian high end restaurants. *Please serve the green mint and tamarind chutneys with certain dishes as they deserve them as accompaniments. * special mention for Sayeed who was very friendly and experienced individual- makes everyone visit very enjoyable. Thanks to Sardar Ji… Sat Sri Akal. This was our first visit and the occasion was Celebrating our 40th, Wedding Anniversary. Overall good experience.
I have frequented Ananda since its opening. It never disappoints. All stars for every aspect of the dining experience to include exceptionally flavored dishes , outstanding ( perfect to be honest) customer service, and the decor and atmosphere is top notch.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Butter Chicken, Lamb Chops, Palak Chaat, Naans, Molten Lava Cake, Palak Paneer
Worth every penny! Yummy food. Kind service. Humble staff. Great parking. Hidden gem. Drinks were made to perfection.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ananda was difficult to find without phone GPS due to lack of signage. However, for a nice and open air seating experience that transports you to a more middle eastern / Asian experience this is where you want to go. Everything from the decor to the seating brings together a great experience. There is an indoor dining area, but the crux of things are both outside and in a patio space which can be enclosed. This space features two fireplaces and fans, meaning it's likely used year round.
I went on a Tuesday so I can't tell you if it gets loud when busy, but I imagine the open air seating allows for more normal volume conversations. The wait staff was very on top of things and water glasses were always full.
As far as pricing expect to pay around. $30 or more for larger entrees and around $17 or more for smaller plates. Appetizers and sides vary on price.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This place has top-notch food but even better service. Said and the entire staff were incredible.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Last week me and my family were at the restaurant for dinner on our trip to dc we found this restaurant and think of trying it once everything is was perfect it’s not like other Indian restaurants Rahul was servering us that he gave us good cocktails and food recommendations love this place will try next time when we come back
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Lovely establishment with tasty cuisines. Service was also excellent. Try the samosas and chicken tandoori. So much flavor.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Very pricy for what it offers.
Nice ambiance and location but food leaves a lot to be desired.
We ordered spicy food. What we got was bland food.
Mind you this is after the waitress described that they offer different levels of spicy.
They did not listen to our request.
The food was cold when delivered.
A fly was in my water. I showed it to the waitress. No apology. I got a laugh instead.
This restaurant is coasting through with mediocre food. How long?
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 3
My wife and I have been to Ananda several times now and every time it has been great. The service is wonderful. The food is flavorful. We moved to Howard County 6 months ago and this is one of our staple restaurants. The owner, Binda, has been great to us. Sayed is extremely friendly and attentive. Rahul slings tasty cocktails. My favorite is the goat curry and lamb vindaloo. The service, the venue and the fun times all are well worth it.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Phenomenal
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A hidden gem. Humble on the outside. A powerhouse on the inside. Literally drove by it as there was no signage outside. This place wasn't on our plan for the day but I'm so glad went found it. Incredible customer service with very accommodating staff. Amazingly elegant yet comfortable esthetic. And to top it off the most amazing food ever. Everything we had was delicious. Taking in everything while dining gave exclusive. We will be back, we just have to!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food was delicious. Had to wait to be served.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Lamb Chops, Garlic Naan and Chutney Dip
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