Nestled behind a semi-hidden entrance on Wilshire, two blocks east of Robertson, lies what is arguably a jewel for Indian fare in Beverly Hills.

Tucked quietly behind a sculptured exterior façade lies Nirvana (8689 Wilshire Blvd.), a contemporary Indian cuisine mecca for those seeking delicious food in a hip, sexy setting.

From the moment guests enter through the large wooden doors that guard Nirvana, they are greeted with fine details such as over-the-top décor in what can be only described as a classy version of a nightclub setting. The lighting is intimate, the tables lit gently with candles and dim red lighting, lending Nirvana a soft glow that oozes sensuality.

Banquette seating lines the walls, while decadent and ultimately welcoming bed-like cabanas occupy the center of the room. Patrons are welcomed to sit inside or on the fountain-lined, Wilshire-facing walled patio to enjoy their blend of traditional and contemporary Indian dishes.  (I assure you the patio is quite quiet, despite this location.

The 10-foot high walls that encompass the retreat-like restaurant ensure sound protection.)

Opened in 2004, Nirvana employs master chef Raamuanuj Sahay, whose resume includes positions in some of India’s most famous restaurants, including the five-star Bukhara at Hotel Maurya in New Delhi. And his expertise is not lost on any of the dishes.

Highlights of the menu include an exquisite, award-winning chicken Tikka Masala, the succulent Murgh Malai kebab (chicken breast spiced with cheese, chili and cilantro and cooked in a tandoor grill) or the mouth-watering eggplant Baingan Ka Bharta, tandoor-smoked eggplant cooked with onions, scallions and tomatoes. Coupled with any of the soft and doughy nans such as garlic or rosemary, and you have a meal to leave you full and satisfied.

The lamb dishes are also a specialty of the house. The Gilafi Seekh kebab or the leg of lamb (a whole leg of lamb marinated overnight with old monk Indian rum and freshly ground spices and cooked in a tandoor) came highly recommended and do not disappoint.

The food is wonderful and the space complements it so. Melding high-end dining with traditional, comforting food finds Nirvana a success. There are even beautiful private spaces that will accommodate parties of 14 or less. Owner Deep Sethi hopes to utilize the open back patio area in the near future as well.

Nirvana caters to the late night crowd easily. Open until 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, Nirvana is the ideal location to finish an evening on the town with a super exotic vibe; all while plasma screen televisions show colorful Bollywood films by the fireplaces.  

Reservations are recommended for parties for six or larger at this dinner-only establishment, however walk-ins are accommodated accordingly. Street parking is only available, although meters are free in the evenings after 6 p.m. (check local signage for details, however).

For more details on hours of operation or to view the extensive menu, visit www.nirvanabeverlyhills.com or call 310-657-5040.