This casual Somerville Indian bistro specializes in traditional North Indian delicacies and (you guessed it) creative kebabs. What makes this Indian place different from others is that the dishes are very mild (also delicious). Start your meal with an order of lamb potli samosas ($5) or one of the Factory's freshly-baked breads—naan, poori, roti, or chapathi. Entrees range from salaoni macchi (mahi mahi cubes with herbs and spices, $14) to shaan e murgh (chicken stuffed with cheese and nut mousse, $15). The kesar mango cheesecake ($4.50), mango lassi ($4), or pistachio shake ($4) all bring the meal to a sweet finish. For a great deal, come for the lunch buffer where you can sample from at least 4 different dishes and several appetizers for a bargain $7. Appetizers $5-8, entrees $12-18.

This self-proclaimed “Indian Highway Side Cafe” is an odd fusion of a no-frills, fast-food atmosphere with delicious Indian favorites at budget prices. Though Punjabi is not ideal for a first date, you can impress him or her with your knowledge of the perfect perfect place to load up on hearty, inexpensive portions of tandoori and naan. Escape to the calm of the small upstairs dining area if you can't take the heat emanating from the kitchen, or cool yourself with a thirst-quenching lassi ($2). Entrees $5-9. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.