Mela Indian Restaurant

4.2 ( 2014 reviews )

Checking... 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM See Hours

70 N Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States

+1 828-225-8880

Mela Indian Restaurant, located in the heart of Asheville, offers an exceptional dining experience imbued with authentic Indian flavors. Reviewers have consistently praised the quality of food and attentive service. Keelin Schneider highlighted the restaurant's commitment to fresh and authentic cuisine, catering to a range of dietary preferences, including vegan and vegetarian options. This wide array of dishes ensures there's something for everyone.

Azu Gama noted the enticing aroma of Indian food that led his group to Mela, where they enjoyed flavorful veggie and paneer dishes, paired with expertly curated Indian fusion cocktails. The ambience did get a few mentions, with some diners feeling it could use a touch of music for added warmth.

Brian Lobo raved about the restaurant’s lunch buffet, which he found to be a tremendous value, complemented by delightful beverages like mango lassi and masala chai. He specifically appreciated the North Indian cuisine prepared by a Goan chef, showcasing an impressive blend of culinary traditions. Meantime, Ebony Wilkerson celebrated the warm, inviting atmosphere and the fine service provided by staff like Yatin, ensuring every detail was attended to, even celebrating special moments with guests.

With a reputation for rich flavors, excellent service, and a welcoming environment, Mela Indian Restaurant stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking true Indian cuisine in Asheville.

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair accessible entrance
- Has wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Has wheelchair accessible restroom
- Has wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
- Has no-contact delivery
- Offers delivery
- Offers takeout
- Serves dine-in
Highlights
- Has fast service
- Has great beer selection
- Serves great cocktails
- Has great tea selection
- Has great wine list
Popular for
- Popular for lunch
- Popular for dinner
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves alcohol
- Has all you can eat
- Serves beer
- Serves cocktails
- Serves coffee
- Serves comfort food
- Serves halal food
- Serves hard liquor
- Serves healthy options
- Serves organic dishes
- Has salad bar
- Serves small plates
- Serves vegan dishes
- Serves vegetarian dishes
- Serves wine
Dining options
- Serves brunch
- Serves lunch
- Serves dinner
- Has catering
- Has counter service
- Serves dessert
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has bar onsite
- Has restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Trendy
Crowd
- Popular with college students
- Family-friendly
- Good for groups
- Popular with tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Accepts credit cards
- Accepts debit cards
- Accepts NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs available
- Has kids' menu
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking

Keelin Schneider

Jul 1,2025

Absolutely love Mela! Our host Eva was delightful and attentive. You have to visit if you’re in town, both locals and visitors rave about the quality of food and service. Authentic, fresh cuisine, including vegan, vegetarian, and non-spicy. options for all tastes

Azu Gama

Jun 16,2025

My group went for dinner last night because we smelled Indian food down the street and had to follow it! We got all veggie and paneer dishes, everything was great. Big shoutout to our server who recommended some great indian fusion cocktails Only thing we were missing was some music, the atmosphere seemed a little stiff. Thanks guys!

Brian Lobo

Jun 8,2025

The lunch buffet was incredible, great value, and the ambience was lovely. The mango lassi and masala chai had a nice hint of cardamom and cinnamon. Especially enjoyed the North Indian food cooked by a Goan chef and the wonderful service from Yatin. Definitely recommend this establishment.

Miranda Redmann

Jun 5,2025

I’m never disappointed when I come here. Mela, their food, and their staff are top notch. Thank you Yatin for taking care of us tonight!

Ebony Wilkerson

May 24,2025

We had an amazing experience at Mela! The food was delicious, full of rich flavors, and perfectly spiced. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. My server, Yatin, was fantastic—super friendly, attentive, and made sure everything was perfect throughout my visit. His great service really added to the experience (we even got a happy birthday song ). I’ll definitely be coming back and highly recommend Mela to anyone looking for authentic and flavorful Indian cuisine! The desserts were beautiful and delicious!!

Parry Higginson

May 18,2025

Stopped in for the lunch buffet, and the food was great! Each of the dishes I enjoyed and they had some options I hadn’t seen before for lunch buffets. I don’t understand the low ratings, as I eat at Indian restaurants often. Highly recommend. Also, it was, a great price, cheaper than most buffets.

Erika Busse

Apr 22,2025

A picture of my empty plate because the food was too delicious! The best Indian lunch buffet with loads of options, flavors, and very clean. Yatin, our server, was so friendly and made us feel welcomed. Great atmosphere, definitely recommend.

Jude Hung

Mar 10,2025

Nice small restaurant. Lovely Indian music. Service was wonderful; they were prompt and amiable. Food was too notch. Authentic. I had Chicken Korma. Delicious We had Yatin as our server and he was fantastic, kind and informative. They serve amazing warm masala chai tea Must try.

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