Eat, Pray, Curry: Our Ultimate Guide to Indian Restaurants in London

In the cosmopolitan maze that is London, where world-class museums and contemporary art rub shoulders with history and tradition, the city’s culinary tapestry is as varied as its neighborhoods. But, among its rich culinary offerings, Indian cuisine holds a special, often revered, place.

Here’s our curated list of London’s crème de la crème of Indian eateries that tantalized our taste buds during our recent culinary adventure across the city.

Tayyabs

A cornerstone of Punjabi cuisine in London for over four decades. This eatery has become synonymous with long queues but let us tell you, the wait is oh-so-worth-it. The lamb chops here are so tender they could disarm a lion. And don’t even get us started on their heavenly karahi tarka dhal.

Gymkhana

Imagine stepping into the British Raj era but with a gastronomic twist. Gymkhana, a Michelin-starred spectacle, offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern culinary flair. The butter chicken? So divine, it should come with a caution sign.

Dishoom

A slice of Bombay in London, Dishoom offers a more relaxed vibe. Famous for breakfast naans and endless chai, their spicy keema per eedu is a game-changer for those daring enough to try it.

Quilon

Quilon is your go-to for a Michelin-starred South Indian culinary experience. Known for its seafood delicacies and vegetarian options, their appam and stew will warm your soul as much as they delight your palate. Their drink selection is equally impeccable, offering a range of Indian craft beers and signature cocktails.

Kricket

Kricket is where traditional Indian flavors meet contemporary cooking techniques. Their KFC (Kricket Fried Chicken) is a lip-smacking modern take on Indian flavors and an absolute must-try.

The Royal Naawab

The Royal Naawab is what you’d call an epicurean palace. The restaurant serves up dishes worthy of royalty in a setting that’s no less extravagant. The Mughlai lamb chops are marinated in a constellation of spices and shouldn’t be missed.

Hoppers

Craving a Sri Lankan twist to your Indian dining experience? Hoppers serves delectable hoppers (a type of pancake) and curries in an upbeat setting. The chicken wings here could set off fireworks in your mouth.

Lahore Kebab House

Looking for a quintessential British-Indian curry experience? Lahore Kebab House is your place. A family-run gem for over 40 years, their lamb karahi curry pairs perfectly with a fluffy naan.

Roti King

For those who prefer to keep it casual, Roti King offers a wallet-friendly but rich culinary experience. With Malaysian and Singaporean influences, their roti canai is a textured wonder perfect for sopping up curry.

Bombay Bustle

Fancy an Indo-Japanese gastronomic experiment? Bombay Bustle offers a delightful fusion that works wonders. Do not pass up on their beef keema pao; it’s a lunchtime triumph.

Benares

Elevate your dining experience at Benares, another Michelin-starred gem. The tandoori chicken here isn’t just food; it’s a celestial experience.

Brigadiers

For those who love their food with a smoky touch, Brigadiers is the ultimate BBQ paradise. With décor inspired by Indian army clubs, this is where you go for smoky chicken tikka and unforgettable lamb skewers.

Rasa

In a city teeming with meat-centric eateries, Rasa stands out as a vegetarian sanctuary. The atmosphere is casual yet uniquely vibrant, and the dosas are crisp, flaky and absolutely divine.

Gunpowder

Gunpowder offers a cozy setting and focuses on small plates that pack big flavors. Try their venison and vermicelli doughnut; it’s as unique as its name suggests.

Trishna

If seafood is what you’re after, Trishna offers a Michelin-starred experience. The butter garlic crab will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Darjeeling Express

Last but not least, we have the Darjeeling Express. This cozy restaurant is run by the celebrity chef Asma Khan and serves up delicious dishes that are inspired by Indian home cooking. The atmosphere is homely, and the prices are very reasonable. Be sure to try the mutton curry, which is as comforting as a hug from your grandma. Beef Tamatar Gosht is another dish worth the 1,000-kilometer journey.