To move toward the future, our team at Arya Bhavan believes we must first look to the past. The chain had its humble beginnings in Nagerkovil, a vibrant town at the southern tip of India, known for its rich cultural heritage and mouth-watering cuisine. The Thiruvengadam family started the business with the aim of serving healthy, innovative, and sumptuous food that brought with it the flavours of one’s childhood. Their commitment was to create something that honoured vegetarian Indian cuisine while embracing modern tastes, without compromising on portion sizes or the quality of ingredients.
The first restaurant opened in Coimbatore, where Arya Bhavan quickly gained a reputation for its comforting, healthy food. A hallmark of the brand was its innovation—fusing Indian cuisine with other styles to create exceptional vegan and vegetarian dishes. Despite its expansion, Arya Bhavan has remained dedicated to its founding principles: serving customers the best food possible while showcasing the warmth of traditional Indian hospitality. For the Thiruvengadam family, each meal served is an opportunity to embody the spirit of “Atithi Devo Bhava”—a Sanskrit phrase meaning “the guest is equivalent to God.”
As the brand grew, Nagerkovil Arya Bhavan became a go-to stop for travellers and a beloved destination for families. The desire to share their food beyond India was driven by Ramesh Thiruvengadam, who sought to expand the chain both across India and internationally, partnering with like-minded individuals equally committed to the quality and experience. The taste of Arya Bhavan is uniform across all its branches, ensuring that diners, whether in India or the UK, enjoy the same authentic flavours. This dedication to consistency has played a key role in its global success, with each new branch adding to the brand’s legacy.
The locations all follow the same recipes and are known for preparing fresh, healthy food with an emphasis on quality. Famously, Arya Bhavan locations do not use refrigerators for ingredients, except for milk. All vegetables and ingredients are sourced locally to support local farmers and ensure maximum freshness. This practice further reflects their dedication to both their food and the communities they serve.
Today, Arya Bhavan is not only a cherished eatery but also a testament to the power of tradition, hard work, and the universal love of good food. The move to the UK came at a time when the global Indian diaspora was growing, and with it, a demand for authentic Indian cuisine. While Indian restaurants were already well-represented in the UK, South Indian cuisine—especially vegetarian options—was still a relatively niche offering. Recognizing this gap, Arya Bhavan set out to bring its unique flavours from Nagerkovil to the British palate.
Nagerkovil Arya Bhavan in the UK became more than just a restaurant; it became a gathering place for people from all communities and of all ages. It offered not just a dining experience but also a connection to culture, language, and heritage for the Indian diaspora. Whether for a quick bite or a celebration, the restaurant played a pivotal role in keeping traditions alive in a foreign land while evolving with the times. The hospitality that each guest receives reflects the heart of Indian culture: treating every customer like family.
From sourcing authentic ingredients to appealing to a diverse customer base, the restaurant’s journey was not without its hurdles. However, the emphasis on quality, consistency, and the renowned Arya Bhavan hospitality helped it overcome these obstacles, establishing itself as a trusted name in the UK’s food scene. Over the years, Nagerkovil Arya Bhavan has garnered a loyal following, with rave reviews from both locals and tourists alike. Its success has paved the way for other South Indian eateries, inspiring a growing trend toward more authentic regional cuisines in the UK. Each branch that opens builds on this legacy, succeeding through a commitment to excellence and a passion for sharing the taste of South India with the world.
The story of Nagerkovil Arya Bhavan is one of perseverance, tradition, and the unifying power of food. From its origins in Nagerkovil to its beloved presence in the UK, Arya Bhavan continues to offer an authentic taste of South India, serving as a bridge between cultures and a reminder of home for many. With a mission to bring this delectable cuisine to more people worldwide, Arya Bhavan remains a must-visit destination, whether you’re in the mood for a comforting dosa or simply wish to experience the rich heritage of Indian cuisine.
