Best Indian Restaurants London: From Street Food to Fine Dining
Last Updated on March 14, 2025 by Amitylux
London is home to over 1,000 Indian restaurants. But let’s be honest—some are mind-blowing, while others serve up something that tastes like curry from a tin. You don’t want to waste a meal in this city. That’s where this guide comes in.
From Michelin-starred hotspots to hidden gems that only insiders know about, this list isn’t just about “good” Indian food. It’s about the best. The kind of restaurants where the butter chicken makes you rethink your life choices. The kind where naan isn’t just a side dish—it’s an experience.
Whether you’re after a fine-dining affair with impeccable plating or a buzzing spot where the aroma of sizzling tandoori fills the air, I’ve got you covered. And if you think Indian food is just about heavy curries? Think again. We’re talking delicate seafood from Kerala, smoky kebabs from Lucknow, and street food that packs a punch.
Hungry yet? Let’s dive in.
Dishoom – A Taste of Bombay’s Charm
Photo: Dishoom
Location: Covent Garden, Shoreditch, King’s Cross, and more
Dishoom takes you on a nostalgic journey to Mumbai’s iconic Irani cafés, offering a cozy atmosphere with vintage décor. Stepping into Dishoom feels like entering a historic Bombay café, complete with wooden floors, brass fittings, and nostalgic art. This spot is perfect for those who want to experience the essence of Bombay street food and café culture.
Must-Try Dishes
- Keema Per Eedu: Spiced lamb mince with eggs – a perfect breakfast choice!
- Black Daal: A deep, smoky delight that’s a signature of the restaurant.
- House Chai: A deliciously aromatic beverage to pair with your meal.
Dishoom’s menu is a beautiful mix of classic Indian flavors and street food-inspired fare, offering hearty breakfasts, indulgent mains, and vibrant sides. Their black daal is legendary, making it a must-try!
Gymkhana – Upscale Dining in Mayfair
Photo: Gymkhana
Location: Mayfair
Gymkhana offers an upscale dining experience like no other. With a Michelin star, this Mayfair gem is known for its refined takes on traditional Indian dishes. The restaurant takes inspiration from the elite clubs of colonial-era India, with an opulent atmosphere and exceptional service.
Must-Try Dishes
- Tandoori Masala Lamb Chops: Smoky, flavorful chops marinated in a rich blend of spices.
- Wild Muntjac Biryani: A fragrant rice dish with game meat, mint raita, and pomegranate.
Gymkhana elevates Indian street food classics into elegant dishes, perfect for those seeking luxury and indulgence. With an impeccable wine list and a sophisticated setting, this is an experience to remember.
Tayyabs – Authentic Punjabi Flavors in Whitechapel
Photo: Britain Visitor
Location: Whitechapel
If you’re looking for a casual, authentic Punjabi dining experience, Tayyabs is the place to be. Known for its no-frills atmosphere and incredible flavors, Tayyabs has been serving up mouthwatering Punjabi dishes for over 40 years. The restaurant is always buzzing with energy, especially during peak dining hours, making it a lively spot for locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Dishes
- Lamb Chops: Marinated in spices and grilled to perfection.
- Seekh Kebabs: Juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
- Karahi Tarka Dhal: A vegetarian dish cooked in a traditional deep pot for deep, comforting flavors.
Tayyabs is the epitome of casual dining, with no pretensions but plenty of punch in its vibrant dishes. A true taste of Punjabi culture!
Brick Lane’s Curry Houses – A Slice of History
Photo: TimeOut
Location: Brick Lane, East London
No exploration of Indian food in London is complete without a visit to Brick Lane, the heart of the city’s South Asian food culture. This iconic street is lined with curry houses, many of which have been serving up authentic Indian dishes for decades. Brick Lane’s restaurants have become a symbol of London’s rich Bengali heritage, offering a diverse range of curries, kebabs, and regional specialties.
Among the many, Aladdin’s stands out for its generous portions and affordable prices. Serving classic curries and flavorful kebabs, Aladin’s is a local favourite known for its vibrant atmosphere and welcoming service.
Pro Tip: Take your time to stroll along Brick Lane and explore the various restaurants, many offer unique regional dishes that you won’t find anywhere else in London.
Jikoni – A Fusion of East Africa, Asia, and the Middle East
Photo: Deliveroo
Location: Marylebone
For something a little different, Jikoni is a fusion restaurant that blends flavors from East Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The eclectic décor creates a warm, homely vibe, while the menu reimagines comfort food with bold influences from different regions.
Must-Try Dishes
- Green Bean and Cashew Nut Thoran: A delicate, flavorful vegetarian dish.
- Lobster Khichdee – A rich Moolie Broth with coconut chutney, combining luxurious lobster with traditional Indian flavors
- Pondicherry Prawn Puffs – Crispy, delicate bites bursting with flavor
- Green Bean and Cashew Nut Thoran – A light, comforting vegetarian dish
- Banana Cake with Miso Butterscotch – Light, fluffy, with a savory-sweet twist
- Peanut Brittle – A crunchy, nostalgic treat to finish your meal
Jikoni’s playful take on fusion cuisine creates a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combines flavors and techniques from across the globe.
Michelin-Starred Indian Restaurants in London
For those seeking the pinnacle of Indian fine dining, London boasts several Michelin-starred establishments. These restaurants blend traditional Indian flavors with innovative techniques, earning global recognition.
Gymkhana
Location: 42 Albemarle St, London W1S 4JH
Why Visit? Gymkhana, inspired by colonial Indian clubhouses, is known for its tandoori delicacies and impeccable service. It became the first Indian restaurant in London to earn a second Michelin star in 2024.
Signature Dish: Kid Goat Methi Keema with Salli and Pao
Booking: Official Website
Tamarind
Location: 20 Queen St, London W1J 5PR
Why Visit? One of the first Indian restaurants to earn a Michelin star in 2001, Tamarind excels in modern Indian cuisine with a refined atmosphere.
Signature Dish: Tandoori Wild Tiger Prawns
Booking: Official Website
Trishna
Location: 15-17 Blandford St, London W1U 3DG
Why Visit? A Michelin-starred gem focusing on coastal Indian cuisine, Trishna offers an intimate dining experience in Marylebone.
Signature Dish: Nariyal Scallops with Malabar Sauce
Booking: Official Website
Historic Indian Restaurants in London
Some Indian restaurants in London have been serving authentic flavors for decades, making them cultural landmarks in the city.
Veeraswamy (Since 1926)
Location: Victory House, 99-101 Regent St, London W1B 4RS
Why Visit? As the UK’s oldest Indian restaurant, Veeraswamy has hosted royalty, politicians, and celebrities while maintaining its status as a fine-dining destination.
Signature Dish: Royal Punjabi Raan (slow-roasted whole leg of lamb)
Booking: Official Website
Chutney Mary
Location: 73 St James’s St, London SW1A 1PH
Why Visit? Originally opening in Chelsea in 1990 before moving to St James’s, Chutney Mary redefined modern Indian dining in London.
Signature Dish: Lobster Malai Curry
Booking: Official Website
Modern Indian Restaurants in London
London’s new wave of Indian restaurants offers contemporary interpretations of classic dishes, with stylish interiors and inventive menus.
Dishoom
Location: Multiple Locations (Covent Garden, Shoreditch, King’s Cross, and more)
Why Visit? Inspired by the Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom brings a nostalgic yet modern approach to Indian cuisine with a casual, buzzy atmosphere.
Signature Dish: Black Daal (slow-cooked for 24 hours)
Booking: Official Website
Kricket
Location: Soho, Brixton, White City
Why Visit? A contemporary take on Indian small plates, Kricket blends British ingredients with bold Indian flavors in a relaxed setting.
Signature Dish: Keralan Fried Chicken with Curry Leaf Mayo
Booking: Official Website
Practical Information
For more information on any of the restaurants mentioned, be sure to visit their official websites:
Dishoom – www.dishoom.com
Gymkhana – www.gymkhanalondon.com
Tayyabs – www.tayyabs.co.uk
Aladin’s – www.aladinbricklane.co.uk
Jikoni – www.jikonilondon.com
Ready to dive deeper into London’s rich history of Indian cuisine? Book a private tour with Amitylux and let us take you on an unforgettable culinary adventure through the best Indian spots in the city.
Conclusion
London’s Indian food scene isn’t just thriving—it’s setting global standards. Michelin stars, century-old institutions, experimental fusion dishes—it’s all here. And now, you have the ultimate list.
Whether you’re impressing a client, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving the best biryani of your life, you’re now armed with the go-to guide. But let’s be real: this city is always evolving. New spots open. Old favorites reinvent themselves.
So here’s my challenge to you: bookmark this page. Try a few of these spots, then come back and tell me which ones stole your heart (or at least your appetite). Found a hidden gem I didn’t mention? Let’s hear it.
One thing’s for sure—your next Indian meal in London won’t be forgettable. Now go eat.
FAQ
Determining the top Indian restaurant in London is subjective, as preferences vary based on individual tastes. However, several establishments are renowned for their exceptional cuisine and have received prestigious accolades. For instance, Gymkhana, located in Mayfair, has been awarded two Michelin stars, distinguishing it as one of the finest Indian restaurants in the city.
London offers diverse areas known for exceptional Indian cuisine. Mayfair is home to several high-end Indian restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Gymkhana and Veeraswamy. For a more casual dining experience, Drummond Street, located near Euston Station, is famed for its array of Indian and Bangladeshi eateries, such as Diwana Bhel Poori House, which claims to be the oldest South Indian vegetarian restaurant in Britain.
Absolutely, London is celebrated for its outstanding Indian cuisine, ranging from street food to fine dining. The city’s rich multicultural heritage has fostered a diverse culinary landscape, with Indian food being a significant highlight. London’s Indian restaurants have received numerous accolades, including multiple Michelin stars, reflecting the high quality and authenticity of the cuisine available.
London is home to seven Michelin-starred Indian restaurants, each offering a unique take on Indian cuisine. These include Amaya in Belgravia, Benares in Mayfair, Gymkhana in Mayfair (which holds two Michelin stars), Jamavar in Mayfair, Quilon in Westminster, Trishna in Marylebone, and Veeraswamy on Regent Street. These seven restaurants are known for their high-quality ingredients, innovative dishes, and refined dining experiences, making London one of the best cities in the world for Indian fine dining.
