Mirsung is given representation mostly as a grocery store (at least according to its listing on…read moreYelp), but several months ago, it annexed a modest, "fast food" cafe next door to the grocery. Frankly, the purpose of my visits have been to pick up prepared lunches, not groceries, so I can't really comment on the latter.
Like other Indian restaurants in town (except for the Bombay Grill on First Street), this place is mostly a greasy lunch counter for college kids. There are a few tables for anyone who wants to eat there, and while the space is brightly-lit by large shopfront windows, the decorations are sparse and uninspiring.
However, don't be deterred by general criticisms on the restaurant's interior. Mirsung probably has the best deal on Indian food in Champaign. When you walk up to the front counter, you'll see a food-laden hot bar, along with a white-board listing the daily menu and prices. If you're not familiar with Indian food, this might be a good way to try it out, as you can just pick out dishes that are visually appealing to you.
Each day, Mirsung serves 2 vegetarian entrees, 2 meat entrees, a special rice dish, soup, appetizers (including samosas), and DOSAS! The combination meals are around $7 to $9 (depending on whether you order meat or vegetable entrees), which is quite reasonable as your take-out containers will be bulking with food when you leave. Most of the food you receive will be rice, a contentious point for most diners (who prefer more meat for their money), but given the spiciness and richness of many Indian dishes, I usually like having more rice. If this is indeed an issue for you, I would recommend ordering the daily special rice instead of plain basmati rice, which costs $1 more per combo plate, but can easily serve as a meal by itself.
I've had good experiences with the special rice dishes, including the lemon rice, tamarind rice, and chicken biryani. These rice dishes are flavored generously with spices, mustard seeds, and fresh curry leaves. I like the sauces on most of the entrees, including the chicken tikka masala, chicken vindaloo, and okra masala. The only real complaint I have regarding food is that the paneer has been a bit tough when I've had it in the past.
Mirsung is located a pleasant distance from the busiest part of Green Street, which means: (1) free parking is available, and (2) you won't feel that you're trapped in some hellish war between pedestrians and traffic. Students shouldn't be discouraged from stopping by, though, as it is still an easy walk from the campus neighborhoods on First Street.
