Some pairings feel cosmically destined: curry and naan, chai and conversation, Somerville and spectacular Indian cuisine. While savoring a perfect samosa alone can be a meditative delight, discovering these vibrant flavors at these exceptional local havens makes solo dining feel like a celebration.
Rosebud Indian-American Bar & Kitchen
$$ | (617) 629-9500 | WEBSITE
While we enjoy exploring the vibrant dining scene in downtown Somerville, all we really need to be happy here is an excellent tandoori chicken slider from Rosebud Indian-American Bar & Kitchen and a refreshing mango lassi margarita to wash it all down. The sliders are pressed into perfect little rounds with a fantastic tandoori char, while the center remains tender and fuses beautifully with the mint yogurt sauce and buttery brioche bun.
Sitting at the bar or in the dining room is great if it’s not too crowded, but even if it’s standing room only, we don’t mind as long as we have a juicy tandoori slider in our hands.
Masala Square Indian Kitchen
$$ | (617) 666-9770 | WEBSITE
This Somerville restaurant has a spacious dining area with plenty of room, and the softly lit space with warm earth tones creates a cozy, inviting feeling that, if this were a feel-good movie, would restore anyone’s faith in comfort food. And if the atmosphere isn’t convincing enough, their chicken tikka masala is. It comes with tender chicken in a creamy, incredible sauce that’s rich with traditional spices—but it’s the depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
It’s also what makes it extra satisfying and worth pairing with one of their fresh mango margaritas from the bar.
Masala
$ | (617) 718-0703 | WEBSITE
Masala offers the kind of straightforward experience you expect from a place that has a lunch buffet and turns into a bustling dining room with a view into the kitchen. This Indian restaurant in Somerville has a solid roster of dishes from the subcontinent, including Nepali specialties, and exactly one excellent value: the lunch buffet. The variety of this spread is so extensive, buffet enthusiasts won’t miss their beloved endless options.
Methi chicken and goat curry stand out among the offerings, and with the addition of garlic naan and momo, it might be one of the best affordable meals you’ll eat this month (alone or otherwise).
Mint Indian Eatery
$ | (617) 764-2515 | WEBSITE
Grabbing a quick meal alone can sometimes feel like you’re just fueling up for the next task, with nothing but your food and thoughts about that never-ending to-do list. But if you want a break from the daily grind, Mint Indian Eatery’s cozy neighborhood vibe can offer a pleasant distraction. This spot is decorated with warm lighting, simple wooden tables, and colorful Indian artwork that creates a welcoming, casual atmosphere.
But while the relaxed setting is nice, their Chicken Jhol Momo is the main draw. And if those perfectly steamed dumplings filled with spiced chicken and served in a flavorful broth are actually just a quick lunch—well, that’s totally satisfying.
Curry Express
$ | (617) 625-7570 | WEBSITE
Committing to a $25, multi-course Indian feast at Curry Express in Somerville is, well, a commitment. So, for a casual solo lunch that also involves one of the best chicken tikka masalas in town, we opt for their cozy takeaway setup. There are two spice levels to choose from—the standard with aromatic Nepali spices and warm flavors, or the extra heat with generous chili options. Both are delicious, especially when paired with one of the complimentary Nepali chiyas offered.
The space is usually set up for plastic booths and takeaway orders, but the first-come, first-served counter is the easiest way to get your food without waiting long.
Momo N Curry
$ | (617) 764-1563 | WEBSITE
Momo N Curry is a great place to settle in with friends, but on busier evenings, the tables near their large front windows are perfect for watching Somerville’s vibrant street life. This Indian spot has a variety of korma dishes on the menu, from creamy shahi paneer to rich lamb korma that are flavorful, but also surprisingly light. And their vegetarian options are just as extensive as their korma selection, with both traditional favorites and some plant-based specialties.
The medium-spice chicken curry with its balanced heat is fantastic (and can even be upgraded with extra naan), but equally delicious is their samosa chaat, paired with that little cup of masala chai.
Guru the Caterer
$ | (617) 718-0078 | WEBSITE
Guru the Caterer in Somerville is the kind of bright, bustling neighborhood spot where everyone (including the staff) is really efficient. But those same staff members will also give you space if you need time tackling a goat biryani from their resident kitchen. Their palak paneer is a comforting masterpiece—creamy spinach with soft paneer cubes, perfectly seasoned with garlic and spices. Each component fuses into a balanced flavor bomb of earthiness, creaminess, and gentle heat.
Pair with a hearty appetite and one of their large portions.
The Kebab Factory – An Indian Bistro
$ | (617) 354-4996 | WEBSITE
For being a buffet-focused Indian restaurant, The Kebab Factory in Somerville is a damn good place to grab some garlic naan and saag paneer. And the quiet tables in the relaxed dining room are particularly useful for enjoying a peaceful meal, and perfect for deterring anyone from interrupting your family dinner time. They have one buffet on the menu (an all-you-can-eat spread) which, as it happens, is delicious.
The vegetarian selection only has several options (again, it’s an Indian bistro), but they’re usually all fresh and expertly prepared. Plus, the buffet is only $18, making this one of the most affordable Indian feasts in the area.
Dosa n Curry
$ | (617) 764-3152 | WEBSITE
If you live in Boston (and probably even if you don’t), you’ve heard of Dosa n Curry in Somerville. And despite this popular spot being around for a while, two things remain the same: They make a good f*cking dosa, and there’s always a ridiculously long wait for a table. But if you show up alone, snagging a bar seat is the best way to avoid the two-hour purgatory in the front vestibule.
And since most of everyone behind the bar is too busy to play 20 questions with you, you can eat and drink in peace.
Himalayan Kitchen
$$ | (617) 623-9068 | WEBSITE
There’s plenty of space for groups at Himalayan Kitchen in Somerville, but this cozy restaurant is also perfect when you’re craving comfort food. The menu is extensive, with plenty of authentic Nepalese and Indian dishes to choose from. When it comes to momos there are several varieties available. The best are the spicy chicken momos, bursting with flavor and perfectly seasoned, but they also have the chicken momos in soup if you want something warming and satisfying.
The Punjabi wings and Bara are also standout choices, each dish prepared with care and authentic spices. With indoor and outdoor seating options, Himalayan Kitchen offers a homey atmosphere that feels like you’re dining in someone’s kitchen, complete with friendly service and reasonable prices around $15-20 per entrée. It’s conveniently located near the T with parking nearby, making it an excellent choice for authentic flavors in a welcoming setting.