While we have lost some great places in recent months (including Latina in my now native Needham), one of my favorite haunts from a lifetime ago is back and better than ever!

When I started my writing career, Davis Square in Somerville was a regular stop. And when I was not reviewing music at Johnny D’s (another dearly departed), I was hanging out and chowing down at the legendary Rosebud Kitchen & Bar. 

Though it had been slated to close, farm-to-table pioneer Chef Keith Sarasin has revamped, and reopened the 1941 dining car (which is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places!), bringing his years of Indian cooking experience to the menu of freshly-made, locally-sourced diner favorites.

From creatively-crafted burgers and creamy cracker-crusted mac n’ cheese to chicken tikka, tandoori-cooked Masala fries and mashed potatoes, and Indian veggie chili, the Rosebud now combines classic American comfort foods with inspired Indian infusions. No matter what you order, be sure to save room for their legendary desserts from nearby Petsi Pies or their new gulab jamun waffle and mango lassi parfait.

The Rosebud has also upped their cocktail game with help from NYC hospitality veteran Will Corado, who is using only fresh ingredients to craft such new signature standards as the Bombay to Boston old fashioned made with curry bitters and a chai espresso martini – all of which are only $10!

If you want more of Chef Sarasin’s masterful Mumbai-inspired meals, look for his pop-up restaurant Aatma or events hosted by his kitchen collaborative, The Farmer’s Dinner. No matter when you want great food – either American or Indian or both – The Rosebud has more than enough local flavor and international flair for any taste!