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    Appu's Turmeric Cafe

    4.7 (251 reviews)
    ModerateVegetarian, Indian, Soup
    Open 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Updated a few days ago

    Order Appu's Turmeric Cafe Takeout or Delivery

    Appu's Turmeric Cafe Photos

    APPU'S TURMERIC CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Trendy
    Quiet
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Appu's Turmeric Cafe

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    Reviews With Photos

    The Maharaja
    Labdhi P.

    I was stoked to try this place because of its stellar reviews. There were 4 of us in my group. The place itself was beautiful and was well maintained. It was spotlessly clean. The owner seemed really friendly and enthusiastic about the menu. We could see that he had poured his heart and soul into this place. We got two maharaja burrito and 1 maharani vegan burrito and samosas. The vegan mango lassi was tempting but it was made from coconut milk and I prefer not to eat that much saturated fat. Food looked great and smelled good. The ingredients tasted fresh. I think it lacked a little bit flavor (possible littles less salt). Spices were fine for me since we got the spicy cali with avocados. For my husband he didn't enjoy it much because he prefers a bit more spicy and also thought it lacked flavor. On the other hand, samosas had the perfect flavor. It was delicious. Parking was easy to find.

    Paneer Tikka Masala along with Turmeric Rice and Indian Flat Bread (Vegan).
    Cayden C.

    Chef VR is an amazing person and an amazing cook. I am a student at Marshall Academy of the Arts and I walked 40 minutes just to get to Appu's. Upon stepping foot beyond the door, Chef VR greeted me with a smile and said "I see you're carrying a violin!" In response, I said yes and he offered that I play him and his customers a song for a free flatbread--in which I took the offer. I performed Shenandoah arranged by Eric Morales, and everybody applauded me. With his promise in mind, he gave me flatbread, free of charge, along with a 10% discount for being a student. My food, it was all made fresh and the flatbread was made from scratch. I love the flavors of Indian cuisine and the damn good Gulab Jamun. Chef VR is a really nice and kind person you'll meet, he is very greeting and he will give people fist bumps for free. Definitely give this place a try!

    Jonathan N.

    I got the maharaja burrito and the potato turmeric tacos with avocados of course. My son got the tilapia masala soup and a mango lasse I also got a mango lasse. The food was great as usual and so was the customer service.

    Lance E.

    I was so excited when an Appu's Cafe was built near my place! That excitement soon came to an end when, at this location, I was not treated with the same care or enthusiasm as other guest. Both workers, one who seemed to be a supervisor, were quick, abrupt, and annoyed with my order. Not surprisingly, the food I normally order from the other Appu's (located in Lakewood) was not good at this location. I do not recommend this location if you have been to the other one. Parking can be a little difficult based on the time of day, but overall there is compact parking in the lot.

    Healthy Mex Burrito
    Jennifer S.

    What an absolute gem in Long Beach! I stopped by Appu's Turmeric Cafe and can't stop thinking about the incredible fusion flavors. I ordered the Healthy Mex Burrito and the Iced Vegan Lemongrass Chai, and honestly... wow. The burrito was flavorful, the mix of turmeric rice, slow-cooked black beans, grilled veggies, and their "chef's secret sauce" created a delicious harmony of Indian and Mexican influences. It was hearty, vibrant, and completely satisfying. I'd 1000% come back for this alone, and I'm already planning my return trip to try everything else on the menu. But what really stole my heart was the Iced Vegan Lemongrass Chai. It's a unique and refreshing blend, citrusy, minty, and subtly spiced with classic chai notes. Truly unlike anything I've had before. It's one of those drinks that just lingers in your mind, in the best way. My only gripe is the price, $6.95 for a 16 oz feels steep. I'd happily drink it daily if it weren't so pricey, but for a treat, it's excellent. Bonus points for the cute little indoor seating area, which makes it a cozy and inviting space whether you're dining in or picking up. Highly recommend!

    Menú!
    Miriah S.

    The food was good this time around (last time the mushrooms in my soup were boiled to a crisp and you can tell in the photo) but the energy of the owner is so off putting. & this time ordered the avocado ($2.50) in my burrito but it was forgotten and the cook/cashier said it was there and framed bringing some on the side as a courtesy that had me questioning my whole reality like wait did I forgot what avocado is ? is this shred of lettuce actually avocado? Lols so sad this place has been a dud for me because the first time I tried the original location at the medical center it was amazeballs and the service was magical but this location has disappointed me twice.

    Mary T.

    This is the first time I've been to Appu's new location on Palo Verde. The strip mall has ample parking albeit it probably varies. The strip mall is right by the 405 freeway entrances so be on the alert for how to enter! Six of us went for an early lunch; 4 had never been before. We were cordially seated and two tables were quickly combined for us to sit together. The place is spotless! Wile I originally inquired if Saag Paneer could be made as it was not on the menu, I was told yes but then opted to share dishes with one person. We checked out the Saag Aloo and Paneer Tikka Masala, the latter dish I was not so familiar with but then became my preferred dish. Both were flavorful but the Tikka Masala had the extra charge. The accompanying rice made for a filling me. We had to pay extra for the bread but it is probably the one thing you might not need with the rice. Also, the bread is a flat bread and does not absorb the sauces as well as I would have liked. We were treated to some mango lassi and it was light and refreshing. As one might know, southeast Asian drinks can be so caloric as usually they are made with condensed milk but not Appu's. A full serving size is well under 200 calories. If you've never been to Appu's and you want to eat healthy, this is the place but it's not boring vegan or vegetarian but a thoughtful fusion of spices and aromatics. Appu's original location is now holding cooking classes! Call for dates and times. Check it out!

    The Maharaja Burrito
    Morgan H.

    Appu's is serving up delicious food that you can feel good about eating. Chef VR was formerly in the medical field if I'm not mistaken, and focuses on holistic cooking that's heart healthy. I had previously been to the original location in the medical building and was finally able to try the standalone location. I love how he fuses Indian food with Mexican favorites like quesadillas. Some of my favorite items are the Paneer Tikka Masala, Maharaja Burrito, Paneer Tikka Tacos and you can't miss the Indian Flat Bread, their twist on traditional naan bread.

    Leslie Y.

    This was my first time dining at the new restaurant. The previous location on the first floor of the medical center is currently being remodeled into a culinary school. You can learn how to cook delicious and healthy meals in a flash from the chef himself. This restaurant is a significant improvement from the cramped previous location. Instead of counters, there are comfortable tables and chairs. The food remains as good as ever, and the menu has expanded to more options. The chef often serves the food himself, so there might be a slight wait, but it's well worth it. He treats everyone like family members and friends, and you can taste his love for cooking in every bite. I learned that he's recovering from cancer, but his passion and vivacity overcame any physical constraint. Please come here and have a taste of life itself.

    The Maharaja Burrito
    Tuan N.

    Was empty when I came in to order the maharaja burrito and it came out in like 5-10 minutes which is good enough for me. Environment looked neat and clean as well. The burrito is well presented and the structure of the tortilla stuck out to me as it's fairly thin and crisp, but still strong. It was an enjoyable meal. I think there were bits of mushroom in it which adds a bit of "meatiness" to it that was satisfying. Perfect consistency for rice in a burrito with it not being dry or mushy. I didn't really know what to think of the sauce that accompanied it since the flavor was a little mild by itself. But adding it to the burrito felt like it did make it better as I ate it, so I ended up using it all. I also ordered a lemongrass chai and the lemongrass definitely comes through. I thought it was refreshing. All in all very solid and quick. I'm not vegan or anything but do like to mix it up a bit and would definitely recommend anyone to give this place a try.

    Sample platter
    Elizabeth M.

    The new location is a little further from me but WORTH the drive for the amazing food and customer service! The food is delish, made with love and friendship.

    Sign

    They're good reviews are deceiving because there are a lot of mistakes within during time we're dining in. Things that I have noticed is they use a microwave to warm up a burrito. When I was eating the burrito there are some cold parts and hot areas. Rice are not fully cooked. Mango lassi almost meets the criteria but It was more of a bootleg version of mango lassi. Workers are nice but dared ones that takes orders and fold your burrito and use the microwave. Price we pay for a burrito and bread sliders we're around 30.

    Menu
    Anders Christofer C.

    We noticed this place every time we have gone to Taco Bell across the street and we decided to try it out. It has a very clean seating area and a very fresh vibe inside. I have never tried mexi-Indian fusion before and was excited to see how it tasted. Unfortunately it was a bit of a disappointment and the tacos was mediocre at best. However it was very fresh and I will came back and try some more food. Great service!

    Appu's statement

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    8 months ago

    Delicious food. Not too expensive. Nice atmosphere. It's wonderful to find food that is so tasty yet good for you - and the world!

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    8 months ago

    I had my first visit at this location. Delicious lunch! The dining area is bright and airy, soft music playing. Thank you!

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    9 months ago

    Business owner information

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    VR V.

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    11 months ago

    Very attentive service, yummy vegan/vegetarian and gluten-free options, and consistently fresh and flavorful!

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    The food and service are excellent. Menu has great variety and everything is fresh. Well worth navigating the small parking lot for.

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    1 year ago

    So delicious! I ordered the Majaraja burrito and a mango lassi and it was the perfect lunch!

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    2 years ago

    Amazing smells, flavor and service! The owner greeted me and helped me with my order. INCREDIBLE!

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    2 years ago

    Thoroughly enjoyed my first taste of Appu's. Highly recommend for those who live near or afar.

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    Page 4 of 7

    Ask the Community - Appu's Turmeric Cafe

    Are you still doing all you can eat lunch? Is this everyday?

    Yes

    Does the inside have central air conditioning (HVAC) and/or air purifier(s) to filter indoor air?

    Yes. The inside does have Central AC. Moreover the cross ventilation in the restaurant also purifies the air instantly.

    Are they going to open for lunch soon?

    They open at 11 and have weekday lunch specials.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    After a festival by LBC city hall we stopped in to have a quick dinner. LBC is happening in the…read moreevenings and weekends but most restaurants close pretty early. Kin was one of the only restaurants open until 10 PM. We were seated right away, and somehow the five of us sat in a private room. It was kind of late for me to eat anything really heavy so I just have my usual salad and it was the beef tenderloin salad. They serve it up with a lot of beef and less veggies. The beef itself was a little chewy and in large pieces. I prefer the meat to be cut a little smaller and would like more lettuce and cucumber. I got a little taste of the spicy fried rice, which was really good. Some of us ordered Thai tea and didn't expect what we received, which was the tea with a Thai tea popsicle. What a treat! The Thai tea itself was pretty standard, but that popsicle was like the icing on a cake. The places, modern and clean. Staff is helpful and nice. Parking is their own lot but can be difficult to get a spot on a busy day or night.

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    It's a thing now that I have to make a stop here for Thai food. Long Beach has loads of places but…read morethis one takes the cake for me. There's a few nearby which fiends have referred and raved about, but this one left a lasting impression. I love me some boat noodles and they do not disappoint. The nice thick broth with loads of meats all mixed in together. Then you have the Chinese broccoli for the perfect veggie paring. Wow, it so good. Some places cannot get their broth right which does make a major difference. Sometimes it ends up being too watery and defected the purpose. Here, the broth is perfect. Also any of their curries is excellent. This time we went with the massaman curries. Nice thick broth with peanuts, potatoes, onion and carrots in a coconut sauce. Another flavorful dish. And of course we always get the papaya salad Thai style with shrimp and peanut. There also the Laos style with fermented fish sauce and salty crab. It's quite nice too but it could be too strong of a taste for some people. The food has always been excellent. Service was always excellent with friendly staff. They're always so welcoming and attentive to their customers. A must for me whenever I'm down in Long Beach. Parking can be tricky as it's all street parking.

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    Love, love, love this ramen spot! The broth here is so flavorful and not salty. My usual is the…read moreshoyu ramen because I love how fresh it tastes. I'm a sukiyaki broth lover, so it's somewhat similar to that taste profile. I like how they also provide garlic and house spicy sauce as it just makes the ramen even better and seals the deal. The crispy rice with spicy tuna is perfection-- you get the bottom bed of crisp with fresh avocados, spicy tuna, and a kick of jalapeño. They also provide watermelon infused water, which was perfect for a warm day out. Although this restaurant is quite small, service was fast and very accommodating. I have been here several times and service plus quality of the food never changes! Seats here don't have any back support but it adds to the modern aesthetic and vibe of the restaurant. I've been eyeing the cucumber crab salad, so I look forward to coming back and trying it next time.

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    Sauteed String Beans w/ Garlic *was delivery
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    Appu's Turmeric Cafe - vegetarian - Updated July 2026

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