Out and About: Sree’s Foods

Originally in The Triangle Building and now at 808 Penn Avenue, Sree’s Foods has been dishing out delicious and nutritious meals for vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike since 2004. Prepared fresh daily by Vydehi Mekala – known affectionally by her regulars as Mrs. Sree – the restaurant’s authentic Indian cuisine is based on traditional recipes handed down from her Hindu family and updated to keep pace with changing palates and dietary choices.

A nutritionist by training, Mrs. Sree ensures the day’s menu provides gluten free, low cholesterol meals made with fresh vegetables, legumes, brown rice, herbs, and spices; chicken selections are prepared using boneless, skinless breasts.  

Every time I step in to Sree’s Foods, I’m greeted by amazing aromas, the smiling yet masked face of Mrs. Sree, and at least six different vegetable-based side dishes in addition to a chicken option. You might find Tamarind Chicken, Chickpeas & Potatoes, Tomato Dal, Green Bean Curry, Spinach and Paneer, Chicken or Vegan Biryani, Spinach & Black-Eyed Peas, Okra Curry, or Samosas, along with many other Hyderabadi-influenced dishes.  

More than affordable at $7.00, Sree’s combo plates feature a generous helping of brown rice plus two or three sides depending on your choice of a vegan or non-vegan meal. With five socially distanced tables inside the restaurant and all meals prepared to go, lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Pro-tip – with quick service and generous helpings, many customers order a second meal to take home for dinner. 

I’m there every Monday and Friday getting my double chickpeas and potatoes with tomato dal. Stop in, Mrs. Sree would love to meet you. 

By Lynda Fairbrother, PDP Office Manager and Executive Assistant