London is
one of the world’s most exciting food capitals, and Indian cuisine holds a
special place in its culinary identity. From fragrant North Indian curries and
tandoori grills to crispy South Indian dosas and comforting sambars, the city
offers an unmatched variety of authentic Indian food. Whether you’re a tourist
craving familiar flavors, a Londoner exploring regional Indian cuisine, or a
foodie searching for Michelin-recognized dining, this guide covers everything
you need to know.
In this complete
guide to the Top 10 Best Indian Restaurants in London, we explore famous
Indian restaurants, hidden gems, and regional specialists across Central, East,
West, and South London. You’ll find recommendations for North Indian, South
Indian, vegetarian, luxury, casual, and family-friendly Indian restaurants,
along with what makes each one special.
Why Indian Cuisine Is So
Popular in London
Indian food has been part of London’s cultural
fabric for over a century. With a strong Indian diaspora and constant culinary
evolution, the city offers everything from traditional recipes passed down
generations to modern Indian fine dining.
What makes London special is its regional diversity:
·
North
Indian cuisine (Punjabi, Mughlai, Rajasthani): Butter chicken, dal
makhani, naan, kebabs
·
South
Indian cuisine (Tamil, Kerala, Andhra): Dosa, idli, vada, coconut
chutney, sambar
·
Street
food: Chaat, pani puri, samosas, kathi rolls
Top 10 Best Indian Restaurants in London UK
Below is our carefully curated list based on authenticity, taste, reputation, consistency,
location, and customer reviews.
1. Dishoom – Iconic
Bombay-Style Indian Restaurant in London
Dishoom is widely regarded as one of the best Indian restaurants in London UK,
celebrated for bringing the nostalgic charm of Bombay’s Irani cafés to the
heart of the city. With multiple locations across Central and East London,
including Covent Garden, Soho, Shoreditch, and Kensington, Dishoom has become a
household name among locals and tourists alike.
The restaurant focuses on authentic North Indian and Bombay-inspired cuisine,
combining traditional recipes with a modern dining atmosphere. The menu is
carefully curated, offering comforting classics and bold flavors that reflect
India’s rich culinary heritage. One of Dishoom’s standout features is its
all-day breakfast menu, which is rare among Indian restaurants in London and
hugely popular.
Signature dishes like the House Black Dal, slow-cooked for 24
hours, and Chicken Ruby Curry
are consistently praised for their depth of flavor. Fresh naan, fragrant
biryanis, and flavorful grills complete the experience. The restaurant also
offers excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
Dishoom’s interiors are beautifully designed,
blending vintage Indian aesthetics with contemporary London style. Combined
with attentive service and reasonable pricing for its quality, Dishoom appeals
to a wide audience. Whether you’re searching for the best authentic Indian restaurant in London or simply
want a reliable, flavorful meal, Dishoom remains an unbeatable choice.
Dishoom is arguably the most famous Indian restaurant in London, inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay. It blends nostalgia, storytelling, and exceptional food, making it a must-visit.
Must-Try Dishes:
-
House Black Dal (slow-cooked for 24 hours)
-
Chicken Ruby (modern butter chicken)
-
Bacon Naan Roll (breakfast favorite)
-
Keema Pau
Dishoom consistently ranks among the best authentic Indian restaurants in London and is especially popular in Central London.
2. Gymkhana –
Michelin-Starred North Indian Fine Dining
Gymkhana stands at the pinnacle of luxury Indian dining in Central London.
Located in Mayfair, this Michelin-starred restaurant is inspired by elite
Indian gymkhana clubs, offering an elegant and refined interpretation of North Indian cuisine. It is frequently
ranked among the top 10 Indian
restaurants in London UK for its culinary excellence and consistency.
The menu showcases bold, traditional flavors
presented with fine-dining precision. Every dish reflects careful attention to
technique, spice balance, and ingredient quality. Gymkhana is particularly
famous for its tandoori lamb chops,
slow-cooked dal, and rich biryanis, all prepared using authentic Indian cooking
methods.
The restaurant’s ambiance is warm and
sophisticated, with dark wood interiors, leather seating, and an intimate
atmosphere that makes it ideal for special occasions or business dinners.
Despite its upscale setting, Gymkhana stays true to the soul of Indian food,
delivering robust flavors rather than diluted fusion.
Service is polished and knowledgeable,
enhancing the overall dining experience. While prices are on the higher side,
the quality justifies the cost. For those seeking the best Indian restaurant in Central London with a focus on
authenticity, Gymkhana is a must-visit destination.
Gymkhana is a Michelin-starred Indian restaurant that redefines North Indian cuisine with refined techniques and bold flavors. Inspired by elite Indian clubs, it offers a luxurious yet rooted experience.
Signature Dishes:
-
Tandoori Masala Lamb Chops
-
Kid Goat Keema
-
Wild Muntjac Biryani
-
Dal Gymkhana
If you’re searching for the best Indian restaurant in Central London UK, Gymkhana stands at the top.
3. Tayyabs – Legendary
Punjabi Restaurant in East London
Tayyabs is one of the most famous Indian restaurants in London,
particularly renowned in East London.
Located in Whitechapel, this family-run restaurant has been serving authentic
Punjabi cuisine for decades and remains a favorite among Indian food lovers.
What sets Tayyabs apart is its uncompromising
focus on flavor and authenticity. The menu is rooted in North Indian and Punjabi traditions,
offering hearty portions at affordable prices. The restaurant is especially
famous for its dry-fried lamb chops,
which are marinated in aromatic spices and grilled to perfection.
Unlike fine-dining establishments, Tayyabs
offers a lively, no-frills atmosphere. The dining hall is often bustling,
filled with families, groups, and regular customers who come specifically for
the food. Service is fast and efficient, reflecting the restaurant’s
popularity.
Other highlights include chicken tikka, keema
naan, daal dishes, and classic curries that deliver bold, spicy flavors.
Tayyabs is also halal, making it accessible to a wider audience.
If you’re searching for the best Indian restaurant in East London that offers genuine taste, generous portions, and excellent value, Tayyabs is an essential stop.
Tayyabs is an institution and one of the best Indian restaurants in East London. Known for bold flavors and no-nonsense service, it’s beloved by locals and visitors alike.
What to Order:
-
Dry-fried Lamb Chops (iconic)
-
Chicken Tikka
-
Keema Naan
-
Punjabi Karahi
Tayyabs is proof that authenticity doesn’t need luxury. It’s one of the most famous Indian restaurants in London for real Punjabi food.
4. Trishna – Coastal South
Indian Cuisine with a Michelin Star
Trishna is a Michelin-starred restaurant in
Marylebone that specializes in coastal
South Indian cuisine, making it one of the most distinctive Indian restaurants in London UK. Its
menu draws inspiration from India’s western and southern coastal regions,
including Goa, Kerala, and Maharashtra.
Seafood plays a central role at Trishna, with
dishes that highlight delicate spice blends and fresh ingredients. Signature
offerings such as seafood moilee, crab, and prawn curries are expertly balanced,
allowing natural flavors to shine without overpowering heat.
The restaurant’s setting is elegant yet
relaxed, appealing to diners who want refined food without a stiff atmosphere.
Trishna also offers an excellent wine list that pairs beautifully with Indian
spices, a rare feature among traditional Indian restaurants.
Vegetarian dishes are equally thoughtful, and
the tasting menus provide a great way to explore regional Indian flavors in a
structured way. Service is attentive, knowledgeable, and professional.
For those seeking South Indian restaurants in London that go beyond dosas
and idlis, Trishna offers a sophisticated and authentic coastal Indian
experience.
Trishna focuses on India’s coastal flavors, particularly from Goa and Kerala. With a Michelin star, it delivers elegance without losing authenticity.
Recommended Dishes:
-
Seafood Moilee
-
Koliwada Soft-Shell Crab
-
Malabar Prawn Curry
-
Appams with stew
Trishna stands out among South Indian restaurants in London for its seafood expertise.
5. Saravana Bhavan – Best
South Indian Vegetarian Restaurant in London
Saravana Bhavan is globally recognized as a
leader in South Indian vegetarian cuisine,
and its London location near Leicester Square is no exception. It is a top
choice for anyone searching for authentic
South Indian food in London.
The restaurant specializes in traditional
Tamil Nadu dishes, served in a simple and efficient dining environment. The
menu features a wide variety of dosas, idlis, vadas, uttapams, and rice dishes,
all prepared using time-tested methods.
The masala
dosa, served with coconut chutney and sambar, is a standout favorite.
Filter coffee, a South Indian staple, completes the authentic experience.
Despite its central location, Saravana Bhavan remains affordable and
family-friendly.
This restaurant is especially popular among
Indian expatriates, which speaks volumes about its authenticity. Service is
quick, and the focus is firmly on food rather than décor.
If you’re looking for reliable, flavorful, and
traditional South Indian restaurants in
London, Saravana Bhavan is a must-visit.
Saravana Bhavan is globally famous and a go-to place for authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine in London.
Must-Try:
-
Masala Dosa
-
Rava Dosa
-
Idli & Vada with Sambar
-
Filter Coffee
For anyone searching for South Indian restaurants in London, Saravana Bhavan is a classic choice.
6. Amaya – Contemporary
Indian Grill in Knightsbridge
Amaya is a modern Indian restaurant located in
Knightsbridge, offering a stylish interpretation of North Indian cuisine. Known for its open grill concept,
Amaya focuses on freshly prepared dishes cooked to order, ensuring bold flavors
and excellent presentation.
The menu emphasizes tandoori and grilled
items, with dishes like marinated lamb, chicken, and seafood taking center
stage. Unlike traditional curry-heavy menus, Amaya highlights lighter, more
contemporary Indian cooking.
The restaurant’s chic interiors and upscale
atmosphere make it a popular choice for professionals, business meetings, and
elegant dinners. Despite the modern approach, the flavors remain deeply rooted
in Indian culinary traditions.
Vegetarian options are thoughtfully designed,
and portion sizes are balanced for refined dining. Service is polished,
reflecting the restaurant’s premium positioning.
Amaya is ideal for diners seeking the best authentic Indian restaurant in London
with a modern twist and high-end ambiance.
Amaya focuses on live grills and open kitchens, offering bold flavors with modern flair.
Highlights:
-
Tandoori Prawns
-
Lamb Seekh Kebab
-
Black Lentils
-
Indian-inspired cocktails
It’s a refined option among the best authentic Indian restaurants in London.
7. Gunpowder – Regional
Indian Small Plates in East London
Gunpowder is a trendy Indian restaurant in
Spitalfields, known for its regional
Indian small plates. It offers a creative yet authentic approach to
Indian food, focusing on bold flavors and sharing-style dining.
The menu draws inspiration from various parts
of India, including Punjab, Goa, and Kashmir. Dishes are designed to be shared,
making Gunpowder perfect for social dining experiences.
Popular items include spiced meats, vegetable
fritters, and regional rice dishes, all prepared with carefully sourced ingredients.
The restaurant has gained a strong reputation for quality and innovation while
maintaining authenticity.
Gunpowder’s cozy and casual setting adds to
its charm, attracting food lovers who enjoy exploring new interpretations of
Indian cuisine.
It stands out as one of the best Indian restaurants in East London
for those seeking something modern yet deeply flavorful.
Gunpowder brings regional Indian flavors in small-plate format, inspired by home kitchens across India.
Popular Dishes:
-
Gunpowder Chicken
-
Goan Sausage Pulao
-
Kashmiri Lamb Chops
-
Okra Fries
A top pick if you’re exploring Indian restaurants in East London.
8. Hoppers – South Indian
and Sri Lankan Flavors
Hoppers brings together South Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine,
offering a unique dining experience in London. With locations in Soho and
Marylebone, it has quickly become one of the city’s most talked-about Indian
restaurants.
The menu focuses on dosas, hoppers, curries,
and sambols, featuring bold spices and coconut-based flavors. Hoppers is
particularly known for its namesake dish crispy, bowl-shaped pancakes served
with eggs, curries, or chutneys.
The atmosphere is lively and casual, making it
a great spot for relaxed dining. Despite its popularity, the restaurant
maintains strong quality and authenticity.
Hoppers is ideal for diners who want to
explore South Indian restaurants in
London with a twist, combining tradition and innovation seamlessly.
Hoppers blends South Indian and Sri Lankan cuisines, offering something unique and exciting.
Don’t Miss:
-
Egg Hoppers
-
Masala Dosa
-
Beef Kari
-
Coconut Sambol
Hoppers is perfect for diners looking beyond standard North Indian menus.
9. Veeraswamy – London’s
Oldest Indian Restaurant
Founded in 1926, Veeraswamy is the oldest Indian restaurant in London and a
true culinary landmark. Located on Regent Street, it offers a refined blend of
North and South Indian cuisine.
The menu features classic recipes inspired by
royal kitchens and historic Indian railways, delivering rich flavors and
elegant presentation. Signature dishes include traditional curries, biryanis,
and seafood preparations.
Veeraswamy’s heritage, polished service, and
sophisticated ambiance make it a favorite for formal dining and celebrations.
It is also Michelin-recognized, reflecting its enduring quality.
For those seeking famous Indian restaurants in London with history and
prestige, Veeraswamy is unmatched.
Founded in 1926, Veeraswamy is not just a restaurant but a part of London’s history. It combines tradition with fine dining.
Signature Items:
-
Railways Lamb Curry
-
Duck Vindaloo
-
South Indian Fish Curry
-
Classic Biryani
Veeraswamy remains one of the most famous Indian restaurants in London.
10. Chutney Mary – Royal
Indian Dining in Central London
Chutney Mary offers a luxurious Indian
dining experience in St James’s, focusing on regional Indian recipes presented with elegance. The
restaurant blends North and South Indian flavors, highlighting royal and
heritage dishes.
The menu includes carefully prepared
curries, grills, and vegetarian specialties, all using premium ingredients. The
setting is refined, with attentive service that enhances the dining experience.
Chutney Mary is ideal for those looking for
the best Indian restaurant in Central
London UK for upscale dining, celebrations, or business meetings.
It combines authenticity, sophistication,
and flavor, earning its place among the top 10 Indian restaurants in London UK.
Chutney Mary elevates Indian cuisine with royal recipes, premium ingredients, and exceptional service.
Best Picks:
-
Rajasthani Laal Maas
-
Chettinad Chicken Curry
-
Paneer Khurchan
-
Classic Thali
An excellent option for those seeking the best Indian restaurant in Central London.
| # | Restaurant | Cuisine Focus | Location | Price Range | Signature Dishes | Ambience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dishoom | Bombay Café / Parsi | Multiple Locations | ££ | Bacon Naan Roll, Black Daal | Lively, vintage, casual |
| 2 | Gymkhana | North Indian Fine Dining | Mayfair | ££££ | Tandoori Lobster, Goat Curry | Elegant, upscale |
| 3 | Tayyabs | Punjabi / Mughlai | Whitechapel | ££ | Lamb Chops, Mixed Grill | Bustling, no-frills |
| 4 | Trishna | Coastal Indian Seafood | Marylebone | ££££ | Crab Masala, Seafood Curries | Modern, refined |
| 5 | Saravana Bhavan | South Indian Vegetarian | Multiple Locations | £ | Dosa, Idli, Vada | Simple, traditional |
| 6 | Amaya | Modern Indian Grill | Belgravia | ££££ | Grilled Meats, Small Plates | Chic, contemporary |
| 7 | Gunpowder | Home-style Indian | Soho / Tower Bridge | £££ | Keema Pav, Tandoori Cauliflower | Cosy, informal |
| 8 | Hoppers | Sri Lankan & South Indian | Soho / Marylebone | ££ | Hoppers, Short Rib Curry | Trendy, energetic |
| 9 | Veeraswamy | Classic Indian Fine Dining | Regent Street | ££££ | Duck Vindaloo, Biryani | Historic, luxurious |
| 10 | Chutney Mary | Regional Indian | St James’s | ££££ | Rajasthani & Bengali Dishes | Sophisticated, elegant |
| # | Restaurant | Cuisine Focus | Location | Price Range | Signature Dishes | Ambience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dishoom | Bombay Café / Parsi | Multiple Locations | ££ | Bacon Naan Roll, Black Daal | Lively, vintage, casual |
| 2 | Gymkhana | North Indian Fine Dining | Mayfair | ££££ | Tandoori Lobster, Goat Curry | Elegant, upscale |
| 3 | Tayyabs | Punjabi / Mughlai | Whitechapel | ££ | Lamb Chops, Mixed Grill | Bustling, no-frills |
| 4 | Trishna | Coastal Indian Seafood | Marylebone | ££££ | Crab Masala, Seafood Curries | Modern, refined |
| 5 | Saravana Bhavan | South Indian Vegetarian | Multiple Locations | £ | Dosa, Idli, Vada | Simple, traditional |
| 6 | Amaya | Modern Indian Grill | Belgravia | ££££ | Grilled Meats, Small Plates | Chic, contemporary |
| 7 | Gunpowder | Home-style Indian | Soho / Tower Bridge | £££ | Keema Pav, Tandoori Cauliflower | Cosy, informal |
| 8 | Hoppers | Sri Lankan & South Indian | Soho / Marylebone | ££ | Hoppers, Short Rib Curry | Trendy, energetic |
| 9 | Veeraswamy | Classic Indian Fine Dining | Regent Street | ££££ | Duck Vindaloo, Biryani | Historic, luxurious |
| 10 | Chutney Mary | Regional Indian | St James’s | ££££ | Rajasthani & Bengali Dishes | Sophisticated, elegant |
| # | Restaurant | Cuisine Focus | Location | Price Range | Signature Dishes | Ambience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dishoom | Bombay Café / Parsi | Multiple Locations | ££ | Bacon Naan Roll, Black Daal | Lively, vintage, casual |
| 2 | Gymkhana | North Indian Fine Dining | Mayfair | ££££ | Tandoori Lobster, Goat Curry | Elegant, upscale |
| 3 | Tayyabs | Punjabi / Mughlai | Whitechapel | ££ | Lamb Chops, Mixed Grill | Bustling, no-frills |
| 4 | Trishna | Coastal Indian Seafood | Marylebone | ££££ | Crab Masala, Seafood Curries | Modern, refined |
| 5 | Saravana Bhavan | South Indian Vegetarian | Multiple Locations | £ | Dosa, Idli, Vada | Simple, traditional |
| 6 | Amaya | Modern Indian Grill | Belgravia | ££££ | Grilled Meats, Small Plates | Chic, contemporary |
| 7 | Gunpowder | Home-style Indian | Soho / Tower Bridge | £££ | Keema Pav, Tandoori Cauliflower | Cosy, informal |
| 8 | Hoppers | Sri Lankan & South Indian | Soho / Marylebone | ££ | Hoppers, Short Rib Curry | Trendy, energetic |
| 9 | Veeraswamy | Classic Indian Fine Dining | Regent Street | ££££ | Duck Vindaloo, Biryani | Historic, luxurious |
| 10 | Chutney Mary | Regional Indian | St James’s | ££££ | Rajasthani & Bengali Dishes | Sophisticated, elegant |
North Indian vs South Indian
Food – What’s the Difference?
North Indian Cuisine
·
Creamy gravies
·
Tandoori cooking
·
Wheat-based breads (naan, roti)
·
Mild to medium spice
South Indian Cuisine
·
Rice-based dishes
·
Coconut, tamarind flavors
·
Dosas, idlis, sambars
·
Spicier and tangier
London offers both styles at an exceptional
level, making it one of the best cities outside India for Indian food.
Tips for Choosing the Best
Indian Restaurant in London
·
Check if the menu focuses on a specific region
·
Look for Indian-origin
chefs
·
Avoid overly generic menus
·
Read recent reviews, not just ratings
·
Try places frequented by Indian locals
| # | Restaurant | Cuisine Focus | Location | Price Range | Signature Dishes | Ambience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dishoom | Bombay Café / Parsi | Multiple Locations | ££ | Bacon Naan Roll, Black Daal | Lively, vintage, casual |
| 2 | Gymkhana | North Indian Fine Dining | Mayfair | ££££ | Tandoori Lobster, Goat Curry | Elegant, upscale |
| 3 | Tayyabs | Punjabi / Mughlai | Whitechapel | ££ | Lamb Chops, Mixed Grill | Bustling, no-frills |
| 4 | Trishna | Coastal Indian Seafood | Marylebone | ££££ | Crab Masala, Seafood Curries | Modern, refined |
| 5 | Saravana Bhavan | South Indian Vegetarian | Multiple Locations | £ | Dosa, Idli, Vada | Simple, traditional |
| 6 | Amaya | Modern Indian Grill | Belgravia | ££££ | Grilled Meats, Small Plates | Chic, contemporary |
| 7 | Gunpowder | Home-style Indian | Soho / Tower Bridge | £££ | Keema Pav, Tandoori Cauliflower | Cosy, informal |
| 8 | Hoppers | Sri Lankan & South Indian | Soho / Marylebone | ££ | Hoppers, Short Rib Curry | Trendy, energetic |
| 9 | Veeraswamy | Classic Indian Fine Dining | Regent Street | ££££ | Duck Vindaloo, Biryani | Historic, luxurious |
| 10 | Chutney Mary | Regional Indian | St James’s | ££££ | Rajasthani & Bengali Dishes | Sophisticated, elegant |
Frequently Asked Questions – Best Indian Restaurants in London
1. Which is the best Indian restaurant in London UK?
The best Indian restaurant in London UK depends on your taste preferences. Dishoom is widely loved for Bombay-style cuisine, Gymkhana is ideal for Michelin-starred North Indian fine dining, and Tayyabs is famous for authentic Punjabi food in East London.
2. What are the top 10 Indian restaurants in London UK?
The top 10 Indian restaurants in London UK include Dishoom, Gymkhana, Tayyabs, Trishna, Saravana Bhavan, Amaya, Gunpowder, Hoppers, Veeraswamy, and Chutney Mary, all known for authenticity, quality, and reputation.
3. Which is the best authentic Indian restaurant in London?
For authentic Indian food in London, Dishoom, Tayyabs, Saravana Bhavan, and Veeraswamy are highly recommended. These restaurants focus on traditional recipes and regional Indian flavors.
4. Where can I find the best Indian restaurant in Central London?
Central London is home to some of the best Indian restaurants, including Gymkhana in Mayfair, Dishoom in Covent Garden, Veeraswamy on Regent Street, Chutney Mary in St James’s, and Saravana Bhavan near Leicester Square.
5. Which is the best Indian restaurant in East London?
Tayyabs in Whitechapel is considered the best Indian restaurant in East London, especially for Punjabi cuisine. Gunpowder in Spitalfields and Dishoom Shoreditch are also top-rated options.
6. Are there good South Indian restaurants in London?
Yes, London has excellent South Indian restaurants. Saravana Bhavan is famous for vegetarian South Indian food, while Trishna and Hoppers are known for coastal, Kerala-style, and dosa-based dishes.
7. What is the most famous Indian restaurant in London?
Dishoom is one of the most famous Indian restaurants in London, known for its Bombay café theme, signature black dal, and consistently high-quality food across multiple locations.
8. Are Indian restaurants in London vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, many Indian restaurants in London offer extensive vegetarian options. Saravana Bhavan is fully vegetarian, while Dishoom, Gymkhana, and Chutney Mary also provide a wide range of vegetarian dishes.
9. Which Indian restaurant in London is best for fine dining?
Gymkhana, Trishna, Veeraswamy, and Chutney Mary are among the best Indian fine-dining restaurants in London, offering elegant interiors, premium ingredients, and refined service.
10. Is Indian food in London authentic compared to India?
Yes, many Indian restaurants in London are highly authentic. Several are run by Indian chefs and families, use traditional cooking techniques, and cater to Indian communities, ensuring genuine flavors.
11. Which Indian restaurants in London are best for tourists?
Dishoom, Veeraswamy, and Gymkhana are excellent choices for tourists due to their central locations, strong reputations, and representation of classic Indian cuisine.
12. Do Indian restaurants in London offer halal food?
Many Indian restaurants in London serve halal food. Tayyabs is fully halal, and several others offer halal meat options upon request.
London is truly a paradise for Indian food lovers. Whether you crave authentic North Indian curries, crispy South Indian dosas, or luxury Indian fine dining, the city has it all. From iconic names like Dishoom and Gymkhana to local legends like Tayyabs, these Top 10 Indian restaurants in London UK represent the best of flavor, heritage, and innovation.
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