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Mint Masala
Master Critic Review
Mint Masala
8.2
Just off Washington Square Park, Mint Masala is a narrow, always-busy spot for classic North Indian and Pakistani dishes served with little fuss and lots of spice. It’s the move when you want reliable curries, tandoor staples, and naan after a night in the Village.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken tikka masala, Saag paneer, Garlic naan
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Long-running Village staple for familiar, well-seasoned North Indian curries near NYU.
Who should go: Dinosaurs seeking classic curry-and-naan comfort near Washington Square.
When to visit: Early evenings or late post-bar hours to avoid peak crunch.
What to order: Chicken tikka masala, saag paneer, garlic naan for the table.
Insider tip: Ask for spice adjustments—kitchen can go noticeably hotter than default.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Waverly and adjacent blocks; expect difficulty after 6pm and rely on nearby garages along Mercer or University Place.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sweaters are fully appropriate; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate; the narrow room can get lively during peak dinner but conversation remains workable.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for small groups; longer for parties of 4+ during peak Village traffic.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait except during NYU rush hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—paneer, dal, vegetable curries, and tandoor options make it easy for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Good coverage—many vegetable curries can be made vegan; ask about ghee-free prep.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free curries and rice dishes; avoid naan and most breads.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Solid for a casual first date—warm, unpretentious, and reliably tasty—but not ideal if you want a quieter or more polished setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Expect a wait at peak dinner hours; solo diners usually get seated fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy flavorful food; limited space means no stroller parking and no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Classic North Indian comfort dishes served hot, fast, and reliably, especially for groups or late-night cravings.
Skip if: You want a quieter dining room, modern plating, or regionally specific dishes like South Indian dosas or chaat-forward menus.