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Nirvana: The Taste of India

Nirvana: The Taste of India, 1680 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge

4.4
RESTAURANT RATING: 
EXCELLENT
4.4 out of 5 (29 Ratings)
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0.9 miles ONCE Somerville
About Nirvana: The Taste of India
The Spotlight on Nirvana: The Taste of India

Spice Up Your Concert Night at Nirvana

Nirvana: The Taste of India is a vibrant, modern Indian restaurant located on Massachusetts Ave in Cambridge, just a short walk from Harvard Square and several popular music venues. With its rich aromas, colorful decor, and welcoming vibe, Nirvana brings the bold, diverse flavors of India to a casual yet polished setting. It's a go-to spot for locals and visitors looking to enjoy authentic Indian cuisine in a stylish, relaxed space.

Why Concert-goers love it

Concert-goers appreciate Nirvana's convenient location—within walking distance of major venues near Harvard Square—making it ideal for a pre-show meal. The efficient service means you won’t be late for the opening act, and the energy of the dining room keeps the pre-concert buzz going. The menu is extensive, making it easy to find something satisfying whether you want something light or hearty before the show.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends craving flavorful shared plates
  • Solo travelers looking for a quick, satisfying bite
  • Couples enjoying a romantic weekend in Cambridge
  • Fans looking for a lively, flavorful pre-show meal
  • Budget-conscious music lovers wanting generous portions

What People Say

According to reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable, guests love the authenticity of Nirvana's curries and tandoori dishes, with the Chicken Tikka Masala and Garlic Naan getting frequent shoutouts. Diners often praise the attentive staff and the welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is also noted for accommodating dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options, which is a big plus for diverse concert-going groups.

Areas for Improvement

Some reviewers mention that during peak hours, the restaurant can feel a bit crowded and loud—but that tends to add to the lively, pre-show vibe. A few guests noted that parking in the area can be a challenge, so if you're heading to a concert, plan to walk or use public transport.

The Bottom Line

Nirvana is a flavorful, high-energy spot that delivers satisfying Indian cuisine just steps from top Cambridge concert venues—perfect for fueling up before the music starts.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Indian
Dress Code
Business Casual
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri 11:30 am-9:00 pm
Sat, Sun 11:30 am-10:00 pm

Nirvana: The Taste of India Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Nirvana is #102 of 557 things to do in Cambridge

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: beckysaurus, Boston, Massachusetts
Mon 6 Jan, 2025
l Excellent dinner and attentive staff. The menu has a lot of options - more than other Indian restaurants - and a designated section for vegan options. We got five dishes and all were well balanced...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Marblerye M
Fri 16 Aug, 2024
l By far and away the best Indian food near Boston. The flavors are incredible, plus the staff is very friendly! We come here at least once a month and love it!

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Chapman1111, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Sun 17 Jul, 2022
l We found the food here to be outstanding. It was easy to be seated both inside or outside. Service was impeccable. Highly recommend!

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Nirvana: The Taste of India 1680 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge