It serves lunch daily in its dining hall, and sends lunches out to schools and to individuals as well. It derives its name from the large Auroville Solar Bowl on its roof, which provides the steam for cooking on all the sunny days of the year. Back-up steam, if needed, is provided by a diesel-fired boiler. The Kitchen asks anyone intending to eat there to book in advance. It's possible to arrive unannounced without a booking, but you have to wait until 1:00 PM when un-booked diners are welcome.