Boston’s South End has rapidly become a culinary destination in its own right. To find the neighborhood’s first Indian restaurant, look for the striking pink and gold windows of MELA on Tremont Street, a unique dining space that has struck a chord with residents here since the day it opened in 2007.

The denizens of the South End are night owls, so MELA serves its full dinner menu – for eat in or take out — until 11 PM nightly. But, it’s the abundant brunch buffet, served for just $12.95 from 11:30 til 3:00 on Saturdays and Sundays, that really draws crowds. The refreshing Indian themed cocktails at MELA’s mini-bar also win fans.

MELA’s take on Indian cuisine is a touch lighter than most, including two spectacular Hot Stone dishes that allow diner’s to “cook” their own food on sizzling hot rocks brought to the table. Meat or fish available. Served with a green salad and a variety of dipping sauces, it’s virtually fat free and costs about $25 for two people.

MELA also features several classic curries (goat, tilapia, lamb shank) in styles made famous in Madras, Goa and Kerala … and a hot tandoor oven turns out dishes like mahi mahi tikka, mixed grill, and almost a dozen tasty Indian breads priced at $3-5.

You can easily spend a whole day in the South End, and MELA makes a fine option for lunch, brunch dinner or a late night snack. Come as you are.