Shere Punjab in Brunswick, Maine

Shere Punjab is a small, cozy Indian restaurant on Brunswick's Maine Street that's become a neighborhood go-to for curry, saag paneer, and mango ice cream. Right now they're takeout and counter service only due to staffing constraints, but regulars keep coming back for the food. The menu leans vegetarian-friendly, with lunch specials that won't break the bank. Staff will guide you through dishes if you're new to Indian food.

• Vegetarian and vegan lunch specials under $18 per entree.
• Mango ice cream and housemade naan when they're on.
• Staff will walk you through the menu if you ask.
• Cozy, intimate room that doesn't feel rushed.

Get the saag paneer, which shows up on every list of staples. The vegetarian and vegan lunch combos are a deal, usually bundled with naan and soup. Mango ice cream for dessert if it's available. Ask the counter staff what's good that day, they'll steer you right. Skip it if you see negative comments about naan or fryer oil that week.

Small, cozy room with a homey vibe. No dine-in seating at the moment, just takeout and counter service. Quiet enough to talk.

Kitchen's doing solid work on curries and vegetable dishes. Lunch plates are a strong value for the money. One recent visitor noted the person working the counter came over unprompted with dietary recommendations. Food quality can be uneven, some guests rave, others have hit cold spots, so consistency seems to be the sticking point right now.

Repeat guests call the food fantastic and praise the staff's patience, especially with newcomers to Indian cuisine. One recent visitor said it was like being invited to dinner. But a takeout order in late 2024 arrived with undercooked chole and overly oily bhajiya, so execution isn't always consistent.