By
Rithika Raghu
on
6th January 2025
London’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its population, and Indian cuisine occupies a cherished place in this vibrant mosaic.
With a rich history and a wealth of regional flavours, Indian food has evolved in the city, blending traditional recipes with contemporary flair. From the bustling streets of South Kensington to the chic enclaves of Mayfair, the best Indian restaurants in London offer an array of dining experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you're craving the comforting warmth of a classic curry, the aromatic spices of street food, or innovative dishes that push culinary boundaries, this guide will take you on a delicious journey through the finest Indian dining spots in the capital.
Dishoom
Inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that pays homage to the city's rich culinary heritage. Dishoom has gained cult status for its relaxed, nostalgic setting, serving dishes like black daal, prawn koliwada, and chicken ruby curry. The breakfast bacon naan is particularly popular.
Location: Multiple branches (Covent Garden, Shoreditch, King's Cross)
Make your bookings here.
Hoppers
This award-winning restaurant, though not exclusively Indian, is the crème de la creme of Sri Lankan and Tamil cuisine, inspired by toddy shops, coastal journeys, and spice gardens. Hoppers is best known for its dosas, kothu, short eats, rice, and roasts, as well as its iconic hoppers.
Location: Multiple branches (Soho, Marylebone, King's Cross)
Make a booking here.
Gymkhana
Inspired by Indian gymkhana clubs, Gymkhana offers sophisticated dishes like wild muntjac biryani, venison keema naan, and tandoori lamb chops. Its fine dining experience blends traditional flavours with modern presentation.
Location: Mayfair
Make a reservation here.
Brigadiers
Known for its lively atmosphere and bold flavours, Brigadiers serves dishes like tandoori lamb chops, masala chicken wings, and butter chicken naan kebabs. It's great for group dining and a casual vibe.
Location: Bloomberg Arcade
Book a table here.
Kanishka
Helmed by celebrity chef Atul Kochhar, Kanishka focuses on North-East Indian flavours, featuring dishes like Nagaland smoked pork, sea bass with mustard seeds, and lamb rogan josh.
Location: Mayfair
Secure your tables here.
Chutney Mary
Chutney Mary brilliantly amalgamates fine dining with Anglo-Indian cuisine, serving signature dishes like crab biryani, grilled quail, and prawn curry.
Location: St. James
Reserve tables here.
Darjeeling Express
Founded by chef Asma Khan, this all-female-run kitchen serves authentic, hearty dishes inspired by the North Indian and Mughlai kitchens. The Kolkata kati rolls, puchkas, and lamb biryani are exceptional.
Location: Covent Garden
Book your seats here.
Kricket
Founded by chef Will Bowlby, Kricket serves a menu that combines Indian flavours with British ingredients, offering a dining experience that truly captures London's multicultural vibe.
Location: Multiple branches (Soho and White City)
Make your bookings here.
Ambassadors Clubhouse
Named after the founders' grandfather, a former Ambassador, this restaurant celebrates Punjabi music, food, and culture. Drawing inspiration from Northern Indian architecture and its abandoned party mansions, the menu features classics like papads, chats, and the quintessential street food of the region.
Location: Mayfair
Claim your table here.
Bibi
Bibi is a vibrant Indian restaurant in London. It is known for its contemporary take on traditional Indian cuisine and its focus on the flavours and cooking techniques of various regions of India. The menu features dishes like tandoori octopus, methi chicken tikka, biryani, and butter chicken.
Location: South Kensington
Plan your meal here.