Unearth The Voyage
Craving Indian vegetarian food that feels comforting yet excitingly fresh? A2B Indian Veg Restaurant in Princeton has turned classic South Indian favorites into local must-haves, drawing long lines with bold flavors and a bright, modern vibe. With a 4.7 star reputation and a menu that balances nostalgia and novelty, it is the kind of place you return to for both dosas and discoveries. Come hungry, and plan your visit around their lunch hours so you can soak in every crispy, spicy, and aromatic bite.
The ghee roast dosa at A2B arrives as a golden sail, shatter-crisp at the edges and tender at the center. You hear the crunch before you take a bite, then the buttery aroma hits, followed by a gentle toasty warmth. Dip it into creamy coconut chutney or the tangy tomato version and you will get why locals plan their lunch breaks around this.
Ask for sambar on the side and let it soak into a folded corner for a contrasting softness. The dosa is big enough to share, but you might not want to. If you love clean flavors, this version delivers clarity along with indulgence.
Pro tip: arrive shortly after they open to enjoy peak crispness. The modern space feels laid back, so linger and savor. This is a gateway dish that turns first-timers into regulars without fail.
If comfort had a crunch, it would be A2B’s masala dosa. The potato filling is soft and gently spiced, with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a touch of turmeric that glows warmly. Each bite balances crisp exterior with creamy interior, and the chutneys lift everything with cool coconut and herbaceous mint.
The sambar is a star here, lending a peppery tang that wakes up the palate. Tear a piece, tuck in some masala, swipe through chutney, then dip in sambar for the perfect bite. It is a rhythm you will want to repeat.
This classic wins over picky eaters and adventurous diners alike. The portion is generous, making it a smart order for sharing. Come on a weekend and watch plates of this fly out of the kitchen, one satisfied smile at a time.
Mini idlis swimming in sambar feel like a warm hug at A2B. The idlis are tender and springy, soaking up tangy, spiced lentil broth that carries notes of tamarind and roasted spices. A drizzle of ghee adds richness without heaviness, making each spoonful soothing and satisfying.
These bite-size clouds are perfect for kids, newbies, or anyone seeking a gentle introduction to South Indian flavors. The portion is ample, ideal as a shared starter. Pair it with a crisp dosa for texture contrast and a balanced meal.
The modern, roomy vibe at A2B makes it easy to linger over this bowl. You can taste consistency in every batch, which is why locals swear by it. Show up early and savor the steam curling above the broth as you dive in.
The onion rava dosa at A2B is all about lacy edges and crackly texture. Semolina batter turns wafer-thin on the griddle, while onions caramelize into sweet, savory bits that punctuate each bite. A little heat from green chilies keeps things lively without overwhelming.
It is the kind of dosa that satisfies when you want something light yet deeply flavorful. The coconut chutney cools, the sambar brightens, and together they create a beautiful harmony. You will find yourself chasing those crispy shards around the plate.
For maximum crunch, eat it right away. The staff knows the timing, so your plate arrives hot and ready. If you love textural contrast, this rava dosa is a must order and a Princeton favorite for good reason.
When indecision strikes, the thali saves the day. A2B’s South Indian thali brings rice, sambar, rasam, kootu, poriyal, curd, pickle, papad, and a small dessert, offering a tour of flavors in one elegant spread. Each component carries its own personality, from tangy rasam to comforting kootu.
You get balance on the plate: crunchy papad, creamy curd, and vegetables cooked to highlight natural sweetness. The kitchen executes with consistency, which is why regulars trust this option. It is value packed without feeling heavy.
Order this when you want variety and a paced meal. It encourages slow bites and conversation in the laid-back, modern dining room. By the last spoonful, you will have met nearly every signature flavor that keeps A2B beloved in Princeton.
For a little kick, the Mysore masala dosa delivers. A ruby red chutney lines the inside, adding warmth and a gentle tingle that wakes up the palate. The potato filling is familiar yet elevated, and the dosa stays crisp enough to contrast the lush interior.
Dip into coconut chutney for cooling relief, then circle back to sambar for tang. This push and pull keeps you engaged bite after bite. If you like flavor without overwhelming heat, this strikes a sweet spot.
It is a favorite on busy weekends, with aromas that drift across the room and tempt table neighbors. Pair it with a sweet lassi for balance. You will leave satisfied, already plotting a return visit for round two.
These crisp, golden vadas come out with a delicate crust and fluffy interior. Dunk them into hot sambar and watch them drink up the tangy, spiced broth while keeping their structure. A sprinkle of chopped onions and coriander adds freshness at the end.
The balance of crunch and softness makes this a top snack with tea or a starter before a dosa. You will appreciate how light they feel despite the fry. The flavors are clean, comforting, and unmistakably South Indian.
If you enjoy textural play, this duo delivers. Ask for extra sambar for generous dipping. It is easy to see why regulars treat this as a non negotiable order at A2B in Princeton.
Big, blistered bhature arrive puffed like balloons, begging to be torn open. Inside, the steam carries a yeasty aroma that pairs beautifully with the robust chole. The chickpea curry is thick, spiced, and deeply satisfying, with just enough heat to keep you digging in.
Onions, lemon, and pickles on the side let you customize each bite. Squeeze, crunch, and contrast are the name of the game here. It is a North Indian classic that the A2B kitchen prepares with real finesse.
Perfect for weekend feasts, this dish can easily be shared yet still feels celebratory. Order a lassi if you want a cooling partner. You will leave full and happy, thinking about those airy bhature long after the plate is cleared.
A2B’s vegetable biryani is fragrant from the first lift of the lid. Long-grain basmati, saffron streaks, and mint weave a heady aroma that lingers invitingly. Vegetables remain distinct rather than mushy, and fried onions add sweetness and texture.
Each spoonful feels layered, with spices revealing themselves gradually. Pair it with cool raita to round out the heat and bring creaminess. It is satisfying without being heavy, making it ideal for lunch.
If you like biryani that respects the rice, this is your pick. The grains stay separate and fluffy while carrying bold flavor. Order it when you want something hearty but not saucy, and enjoy how it anchors a table of shared dishes at A2B.
Velvety sauce meets tender paneer in a crowd-pleasing favorite. A2B’s paneer butter masala leans rich yet balanced, with tomato sweetness and a gentle buttery finish. Cubes of paneer stay soft, soaking up the gravy without falling apart.
Pair it with naan or plain rice to let the sauce shine. The kasuri methi notes come through subtly, adding perfume rather than punch. It is comfort food you can count on during a cozy Princeton lunch break.
For those easing into Indian flavors, this dish is a friendly guide. It delivers depth without overwhelming heat. You will scrape the bowl clean, smiling at the lingering creaminess and planning what to try next.
If you are craving something snacky and bold, the gobi Manchurian hits hard. Cauliflower florets arrive crisp, coated in a glossy, tangy sauce with garlicky swagger. Scallions add bite, and the dish stays lively to the last morsel.
It is perfect for sharing before diving into dosas or biryani. The textures are dialed in so it never turns soggy too fast. You will reach for one more piece until the plate is mysteriously empty.
Pair with a chilled drink for contrast. This Indo Chinese favorite brings familiar comfort with a playful twist. At A2B, it has become a Princeton go to because it always delivers craveable satisfaction.
Rasam over rice is the definition of soothing. A2B’s version leans peppery with tamarind tang, sending comforting warmth through each spoonful. A touch of ghee ties it together, making the finish silky and aromatic.
When you want something light that still feels complete, this bowl does the trick. It is the kind of meal that resets your day, especially on a rainy Princeton afternoon. Pair it with a side of papad for crunch.
The simplicity leaves room for subtleties you will appreciate. Sip, savor, and slow down for a moment in the modern, relaxed dining room. You will walk out refreshed and ready for whatever comes next.
End your meal with South Indian filter coffee that perfumes the table before it arrives. The davara tumbler set is part of the ritual, inviting you to pour and cool the frothy brew. Strong, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic, it pairs nicely with a final bite of dessert.
If you love coffee with character, this gives you clarity and warmth in equal measure. It is a small moment that stretches time in the best way. Sip slowly and let the spices and roasted notes linger.
Even non coffee drinkers get pulled in by the aroma. At A2B, this classic caps your lunch with a satisfying flourish. Consider it a signature send off you will crave on your next visit.
Sometimes you need a cooling anchor, and the mango lassi steps up beautifully. Thick, creamy, and tropical, it balances savory spice with gentle sweetness. The saffron and pistachio garnish makes it feel a little celebratory.
It pairs especially well with Mysore masala dosa or chole bhature. The contrast calms the heat while letting the flavors shine. You will probably finish it faster than planned, so consider ordering two for the table.
This is also a great option for kids or anyone easing into bolder dishes. It is refreshing without being heavy, perfect for a midday pick me up. One sip and you will understand why locals treat it like a Princeton sunshine in a glass.
A smooth visit starts with timing. A2B opens for lunch at 11:30 AM most days, and lines can form quickly on weekends. If you arrive right after opening, you get the freshest, crispiest dosas and shorter waits.
Monday is closed, so plan accordingly. Peak hours hover around noon to 1:30 PM, especially Saturday and Sunday. Call ahead at +1 973-939-5565 if your group is large or check a2bnewjersey.com for updates.
Parking is straightforward along US 1, and the modern, roomy interior handles crowds comfortably. Bring friends to share more dishes and sample broadly. You will settle in, relax, and enjoy a laid back meal without the rush.
There is a reason the reviews shine. A2B blends a casual, modern setting with reliable, flavorful vegetarian food that never feels like a compromise. The menu honors South Indian roots while offering North Indian and Indo Chinese favorites.
Service is warm and efficient, and the kitchen delivers consistent quality plate after plate. Prices feel fair for generous portions, keeping it a go to option for families, students, and office crowds. You can taste care in the sambar and precision in each dosa.
In Princeton, it has become the spot for satisfying lunches and celebratory weekend meals. Come for the classics, stay for the comfort and community. You will leave with a favorite dish and a plan to bring someone back.
