Indian American Restaurants Can Now Vie For ‘Annapurna Certificate’

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI – Recognizing the soft power of food, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has been working to enhance the role of Indian restaurants outside the country with the “Annapurna Certificate.”

This is not like the Michelin, which Indian restaurants like Semma in NY recently bagged, but to recognize restaurants operating internationally that have significantly contributed to spreading authentic Indian food and culinary traditions.

In 2023, six restaurants were honored with the inaugural Annapurna Certificate. In 2024, the ICCR received 16 nominations for the certificate, with winners still to be announced.

This certificate serves as a token of appreciation for these establishments’ role in introducing Indian cuisine to local communities abroad while preserving and showcasing the rich diversity of Indian culinary heritage.

According to the ICCR’s official website, restaurants located outside India are eligible for the Annapurna Certificate, provided they meet specific criteria. These include making a notable impact in promoting genuine Indian cuisine, serving a minimum of 5,000 customers per month, and operating for at least five years.

Restaurants of all types, whether fine dining or casual, are invited to participate, and the nationality of the restaurant owner is not a determining factor. As long as the establishment authentically represents Indian culinary traditions, ownership by non-Indians is acceptable. Additionally, the restaurant must adhere to local food hygiene and safety standards.

The process for selecting recipients begins with Indian embassies and high commissions worldwide receiving nominations. The nominated restaurants then submit their applications to the respective Indian Mission/Post within a designated timeframe. Once the applications are collected, they are reviewed by an ICCR-appointed jury.

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