Rassa Boston [Waltham, MA]

Took over the entire Moody’s deli and backroom space. It is a very nice remodal of that space, but gigantic to the point that I worry that they can fill that many seats. Their self-description: “Rassa Boston is an upscale Indian restaurant with full bar, where we artfully elevate the flavors of Southern India’s culinary traditions. Immerse yourself in a gastronomic journey that pays homage to the region’s rich heritage.” I’d say this is fairly accurate though their menu was not quite as focused on Southern Indian as I might have expected (they have Northern Indian, Indo Chinese as well). The food was overall quite good, with creative garnishes and finishing touches that elevate it a bit over the “scoop from the vat into the silver dish” style that is more typical. The cocktails were also creative and many incorporated Indian spices and other touches. The one (pretty big but hopefully correctable) downside was that there was an almost overpowering smell inside. It’s hard to describe, I’m not sure if it was a cleaning product or a food smell but it was everywhere, to the point where we had to debate whether or not to stay. The closest I can come to a comparison is the smell that you sometimes get from bamboo shoots in Thai dishes, but more intense. We did stay, and were pretty happy with the food, but this definitely detracted from the overall experience. I think we are likely to try them again as a delivery/takeout option.

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Thanks for checking in about this place! Do they have bar seating? I will be more likely to talk BF into trying it if there is bar seating (it’s how I get him to go to Taste House). Overall, we are more bar top eaters (even at steak houses) these days on the occasions we actually go out.

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You know, I can picture the bar (it was behind us at our table) but I can’t remember if there were no seats or just nobody sitting there. Should be easily visible from a driveby through the window though!

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Thanks!

The website shows a bar with seats.

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Nice! Thanks!

We’ve had a few very nice meals there. I particularly liked the saag, which was a nice vibrant green, instead of the dull dark color I typically find here. We also enjoyed the Chettinad farmer’s market and vegetable biryani. The kids enjoyed looking into the window into the kitchen. The last time we went on a Saturday night, which was on the early side, the restaurant was pretty full by the time we left with lots of families. I did see someone sitting at the upstairs bar, though I didn’t pay attention to whether they were eating or not.

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Thanks for the report. We were really surprised that someone took over the entire space as well. I always felt that the expansion was part of what drove Moody’s down. So glad to hear that it has been busy. We will have to try it as well!