Craving Indian food in London? You're in luck - the city boasts endless options spanning cool neighborhood joints to upscale restaurants. Discover the best places for regional specialties from Biryanis to Punjabi grills with our list of top Indian eateries.
Indian cuisine is stealing the culinary spotlight in London like never before. New openings keep expanding the possibilities, highlighting regional variations and creative takes on traditional dishes. Michelin-starred spots rub shoulders with cozy haunts perfect for weekday comfort food.
Located in the heart of glamorous Mayfair, BiBi's ethos celebrates traditional Indian cuisine and chef Chet Sharma's family history. Opulent decor evokes tile kitchens, dark wood and paisley patterns, rivaling nearby haunts.
The sharing menu spotlights three sections. Order seven to eight small plates to truly savor BiBi's flavors. From the upscale setting to the thoughtful cuisine, BiBi brings a personal touch of Indian heritage to Mayfair dining.
Address: 42 N Audley Street, London W1K 6ZP
Website: bibirestaurants.com
Gymkhana transports you from central London with its dark timber and rich fabrics inspired by old Indian clubs. Their tasting menu requires an empty stomach - portions are generous and flavorsome, from mutton samosas to cardamom kheer desserts. But it's the stellar service that truly sets Gymkhana apart. Seek their expert advice on navigating the fancy yet satisfying fare. With polished ambiance and cuisine, Gymkhana earns its reputation for exceptional Indian dining experiences.
Address: Gymkhana, 42 Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4JH
Website: gymkhanalondon.com
At Trishna, the Sethi siblings transform beloved Indian street food into Michelin-starred fare. Their journey across India's coasts spotlights creative vegetable and seafood dishes, a refreshing change from London's typical meat-heavy curries.
Begin with aloo tokri chaat, crunchy deep-fried potatoes doused in yogurt, spices and chutneys. The contemporary space features whitewashed brick and unfussy wood furniture. Attentive yet unintrusive service includes spot-on cocktail and wine recommendations to complement the voyage across southern flavors.
Opt for the Koliwada tasting menu to sample intricately spiced small plates like stuffed soft-shell crab. Notable curries include aubergine and spinach creations, served with sides like truffled mushroom pilau. With skillful execution and artful presentation, Trishna brings exceptional finesse to iconic Indian street food and regional specialties.
Address: Trishna, 15-17 Blandford Street, Marylebone, London W1U 3DG
Website:
trishnalondon.com
Michelin-starred Tamarind has relaunched with a fresh, contemporary look. The doubled space features long sofas, stripped wood and two open kitchens. Talented new chefs helm the menu of small sharing plates and light tandoori grills.
Begin with plump scallops in a red lentil curry or chili sea bass. Shareable mains include chicken biryani dramatically unveiled tableside, tender lamb osso bucco and Keralan prawn curry with naan and raita. Vegetarians will relish the colorful salads and caramelized Brussels sprouts.
Though Tamarind's star was rescinded during closure, the refreshed interiors, stellar team and inventive small plates will likely restore it soon. For special occasions or weekday lunches, Tamarind remains an elegant fixture on London's Indian dining scene with a vibrant new energy.
Address: 20 Queen Street, London W1J 5PR
Website: tamarindrestaurant.com
Soho Wala brings explosive authentic Indian street food to Central London. Launched in 2018 across from Carnaby Street, this hub for unforgettable flavors offers small sharing plates in an intimate, welcoming setting.
Head chef Rajesh Parmar's menu spotlights fresh ingredients in cutting-edge takes on classics. Savor moreish pani puri, fiery chicken and legendary momos dumplings. Innovative vegan options and afternoon teas bursting with coriander chutney buns prove Soho Wala's inventive approach.
Perfectly positioned for shopping pit stops, after-work gatherings or weekend brunches, Soho Wala embodies contemporary Indian dining. Their small plates capture the spirit and tastes of bustling markets in a refined yet lively Soho atmosphere.
Address: 21 Great Marlborough Street, Soho, London W1F 7HL
Website: sohowala.com
Kahani adds a fresh chapter to Britain's 200-year love affair with Indian food. Located in Chelsea, this Michelin-starred restaurant combines luxe interiors with inclusive fine dining.
Chef Peter Joseph spotlights the finest British seasonal ingredients enlivened by Indian spices and techniques. His flavorful sharing-style meals echo the communal hallmark of superior cuisine.
Raised in Chennai, Joseph absorbed traditional cooking from his mother and local markets' vibrant ingredients. Now he blends those roots with British experience in signature modern Indian dishes.
Using top ingredients and time-honored methods, Kahani makes informal yet high-class Indian cuisine centered on sharing. Joseph seeks to honor his heritage while advancing Indian fine dining.
Kahani will be undergoing renovations and will be closed from August 7th to August 16th. We look forward to welcoming you back on August 17th when we reopen as usual.
Address: Kahani, 1 Wilbraham Place, Belgravia, London SW1X 9AE
Website: kahinilondon.com
Expect queues at Dishoom, but persevere for this vibrant Bombay café-style space with spinning fans and vintage prints. Their breakfasts shine - don't miss the bacon naan roll or Big Bombay platter piled with sausages, beans and more.
Of their Indian fare, we love the lamb biryani, tangy bhel puffed rice and black dal. Though Dishoom has expanded since opening in 2010, they've maintained quality across locations like Shoreditch and Canary Wharf.
Stick out the line for Dishoom's playful energy and top-notch Indian comfort food. Their winning breakfasts and brunches provide the perfect start to a day out in London.
Address: Multiple Locations Across United Kingdom
Website: bibirestaurants.com
Brigadiers brings sizzling Indian gastropub flair to London's Bank neighborhood. Part of the Gymkhana team, they eschew fine dining for bold barbecue-inspired small plates and mains.
Ignore the promised football - cozy booths without screens are ideal. Start with skewers, rotis and chilli chicken cups. Even the papadums shine in four flavors. Mains like tandoori lamb deliver fiery punches - cool off with raita.
With private rooms for parties, Brigadiers' Indian fare outshines neighbors. Their pub concept spotlights inventive spice-packed sharing plates. Bank finally has destination dining thanks to this mouthwatering mashup.
Address: Brigadiers, 1-5 Bloomberg Arcade, London EC4N 8AR
Website: brigadierslondon.com
Benares remains a stalwart of upscale Indian dining since gaining its first Michelin star in 2007. Now led by Chef Sameer Taneja, who regained the star in 2021, the restaurant impresses with generous portions of traditional-meets-modern fare.
Make an evening of the moody red and black bar with a Passion Fruit Martini. Mini poppadoms arrive with apricot and gooseberry dips before standout starters like Macchi Ceviche Chaat. Balance the rich flavors with Paneer Galouti Kebab and Masala Anda.
Main courses shine with tandoori lamb cutlets and roasted Lucknowi style lobster yakhni pulao. Lighten up on desserts like malai kulfi before capping your meal with pistachio praline, dark chocolate tart. With its gracious service and vibrant buzz, Benares remains a refined yet welcoming destination for modern Indian fare.
Address: 12a Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London W1J 6BS
Website: benaresrestaurant.com
Darjeeling Express spotlights Mughlai family recipes and Calcutta street food in homestyle platters made for sharing. Chef Asma Khan's London restaurant originated as 12-guest pop-up dinners.
Savor slow-cooked meats, channa chaat snacks and more on journeys across Indian regions. Flavors complement each other encouraging communal feasts.
An all-female team crafts each dish with passion to nourish body and soul. Drawing from Khan's royal ancestry and Calcutta upbringing, Darjeeling Express serves soulful Indian fare as it's meant to be eaten - together.
Address: Top Floor, Kingly Court, Soho, London W1B 5PW
Website: darjeeling-express.com
Jikoni celebrates the rich shared flavors of immigrant cuisine across South Asia, the Far East, Middle East, East Africa and Britain. Their "mixed heritage" cooking honors both commonalities and diversity, creating soulful cross-cultural dishes.
Drawing from maternal, nurturing cooking styles passed through generations, we extend our home kitchen's warmth and hospitality. Sit back and enjoy reinvente classics like Butternut Squash Pakoras, Moilee, Lemon Rice or Banana Cake, Miso Butterscotch.
With instinctive family recipes adapted cross-culturally, Jikoni spotlights the intricate beauty of global food traditions. We blend global flavors into comforting, familiar dishes to make you feel right at home.
Address: 19-21 Blandford Street, Marylebone, London W1U 3DH
Website: jikonilondon.com
Kricket brings Mumbai flavor to Soho at this bustling theater kitchen. Originally a Brixton pop-up, the communal spot mixes Indian classics and cocktails.
Chef Will Bowlby spent time in Mumbai, inspiring the menu's blend of British ingredients and authentic Indian spice. Savor pakoras, Kerala chicken and grill lamb leg in a minimalist, dimly lit basement.
But the true star is the roasted pumpkin in sweet-spicy makhani sauce and pao bhaji. Kricket's infectious energy transports you from crowded Soho to Mumbai's kitchens. Communal tables make it ideal for groups to share joyful cross-cultural plates.
Address: 12 Denman Street, Soho, London W1D 7HH
Website: kricket.co.uk
Bombay Bustle immerses you in Mumbai's essence - blending tradition with urban energy. Designed to reflect the city's Art Deco architecture and organized chaos, the Mayfair spot suits leisurely dinners or quick lunches.
The menu features beloved dishes, family recipes and comfort foods like chole bhature, keema pao and chicken curry. Sunday brunches offer decadent spreads recalling lazy mornings. Classic cocktails at the welcoming pewter bar transport you to Mumbai's beating heart.
From decor to dining, Bombay Bustle embodies the layered flavors and rhythms of India's culinary capital. Linger over nostalgic flavors or grab a quick bite - this stylish eatery captures Mumbai's versatile spirit.
Address: 29 Maddox Street, Mayfair, London W1S 2PA
Website:
bombaybustle.com
Cinnamon Bazaar blends real Indian heritage with modern London through creative dishes inspired by bustling bazaars. This cultural melting pot suits family feasts or friendly chats over chai.
Embracing the democratic spirit of markets connecting ancient empires, the menu features fusion flavors like Indo-Chinese chilli paneer and pork belly with curried yogurt. Don't miss the roaming chaat cart - customize crunchy street snacks with your choice of spices.
From cocktails incorporating Indian scotch to customizable chaat, Cinnamon Bazaar brings the vibrant spirit of crossroads cuisine to urban dining. Experience inventive Indian heritage plates in a relaxed, lively atmosphere.
Address: 28 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7JS
Website: cinnamon-bazaar.com
Jamavar brings refined Indian dining from The Leela hotels to London's Mount Street. Founded in 2001 by Dinesh Nair, the original Jamavar won acclaim in India before expanding abroad.
In 2016, Nair and daughter Samyukta opened Jamavar London, earning a Michelin star for luxurious pan-Indian cuisine. Dishes draw from regional traditions like Kashmir's intricate shawls that inspired the name.
After decades perfecting luxury hospitality, the Nairs' international Jamavar outposts offer sophisticated Indian fare in elegant settings. Savor decadent flavors from across India at these celebrated fine dining destinations.
Address: 8 Mount Street, Mayfair, London W1K 3NF
Website: jamavarrestaurants.com
MW Eat showcases India's diverse cuisines, from fine dining to street food, in restaurants ranging from elegant to relaxed. Their prime London venues include three prestigious Indian eateries - Amaya, Chutney Mary, and Veeraswamy.
Founded 91 years ago by an Indian army officer and princess, Veeraswamy features royal favorites and sophisticated Maharajah-style decor. Try the Kashmiri Rogan Josh or intense lamb shanks in bone marrow sauce.
Chutney Mary offers a contemporary spin on tradition in a relaxed Chelsea setting. Amaya blends modern style with classic Indian hospitality.
United by authentic flavors, MW Eat's refined to casual eateries deliver quintessential Indian fare. Experience the nation's culinary breadth through these storied London establishments.
Address: Victory House, 99-101 Regent Street, W1B 4RS
Website: veeraswamy.com
Punjab Restaurant has served distinctive North Indian fare in London since 1946. Now in Covent Garden, the family-run eatery retains historic charm with generations of portraits and memorabilia.
The comforting, old-school menu stars Acharri lamb, tarka daal and paneer butter masala. But the outstanding kali daal recipe passed down from the grandfather founder steals the show.
While London has transformed, Punjab Restaurant remains a consistent comfort. Their unfussy curry house classics stay true to Punjabi traditions spanning 75 years. Experience enduring North Indian flavors surrounded by the family's culinary legacy.
Address: 80 Neal Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9PA
Website: punjab.co.uk
Roti Chai brings Delhi's street food to London across two distinct spaces - the Street Kitchen and Dining Room. Each has dedicated kitchens and menus showcasing Indian ingredients and techniques with contemporary twists.
Roti Chai brings the flavors of India's famous street food to the heart of London. Located near Marble Arch, this lively restaurant recreates the energy of Delhi's bustling roadside stalls in a contemporary setting.
The menu spotlights authentic chais, flavorful biryanis, and diverse roti rolls stuffed with spiced lamb, paneer and more. Pair it with chatpatta chaat snacks and sweet lassis. Designed for sharing, the affordable street-inspired fare makes Roti Chai perfect for casual group dining.
With food prepared in an open kitchen and upbeat Bollywood hits, Roti Chai's infectious vibe transports you to the aromatic alleys of Old Delhi. Experience India's famous street cuisine traditions reinvented for London.
Address: 3 Portman Mews S, London W1H 6AS
Website: rotichai.com
Fatt Pundit celebrates the delicious fusion of Indo Chinese cuisine, which blends traditional Chinese cooking with Indian spices. Originating when the Hakka people migrated from China's Canton province to India, this inventive blend is now integral to Indian food.
The playful name combines the Chinese surname "Fatt" with the Indian word "Pundit," nodding to the restaurant's scholarly exploration of this unique cross-cultural style. Led by Irish-Indian chefs, Fatt Pundit allows diners to savor Kolkata-style Indo Chinese flavors reimagined for London. Taste this scholarly fusion of two culinary treasures.
Begin with classics like momos dumplings, pakoras and samosas or more unusual dishes like lamb chops with cumin and crispy lotus root. For mains, choose from a spectrum of flavors - rich curries, spicy stir fries, and noodle soups. Fatt Pundit brings scholarly creativity to Indo Chinese cuisine through inventive takes on traditional dishes.
Address: Soho & Covent Garden
Website: fattpundit.co.uk
From the creators of Gymkhana and Trishna, Hoppers squeezes Sri Lankan classics into a tiny but popular Soho spot. Their signature hoppers - bowl-shaped fermented pancakes - are served with egg, chutneys and your choice of curry.
Their menu explores the island's complex flavors through dishes like kari, a coconut milk curry with fried chicken, and kothu roti, a stir-fry with ginger, chili and roasted curry powder. The set menu offers the best hits like bone marrow roti, mutton rolls and dosa in meat or veggie versions.
Modeled after the open-air restaurants of Colombo, the dining room recreates a tropical atmosphere with palm ceilings, rattan lights and banana leaf-covered tables. Shareetailed hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes) and vibrant curry combinations family-style.
Led by the "Queen of Rice" chef, Hoppers transport diners from lively Soho to the rich culinary traditions of Sri Lanka through interactive dining and colorful island flavors. Discover this inventive taste of South Asia.
Address: Soho, Marylebone, King's Cross
Website: hopperslondon.com
Next to the Bank of England, Mint Leaf Lounge blends innovative Indian fare with upscale cocktails in a stylish setting. Oozing luxury, the expansive spot welcomes guests for dining and drinking throughout the day.
Executive Chef Pradeep Khullar brings passion and innovation to Mint Leaf London's Indian fine dining. Having honed his skills at acclaimed restaurants in India and Dubai over the last decade, award-winning Khullar develops creative modern twists on tradition.
Alongside creative Indian plates, their 16-meter cocktail bar stars handcrafted drinks like the Silk Route with French Thyme & Cucumber. Complement your meal with a popcorn negroni or other signature cocktail.
With contemporary cool style, Mint Leaf Lounge offers a refined Indian dining and drinking destination in the heart of London's financial district.
Address: Bank, 12 Angel Ct, London EC2R 7HB
Website: mintleaflondon.com
Chai Ki brings modern Indian soul food and cocktails to London's Canary Wharf. From the creators of Roti Chai, this lively spot features creative small plates perfect for sharing and celebrating.
The industrial-chic space with a rooftop terrace exudes hip, casual vibes. Beyond chais, signature drinks include lychee rose bellinis and maha mojitos.
Expect reinvented classics like Tibetan chicken momos, Kerala fried cauliflower and Bombay puffed rice mixes. Other hits include Achari chicken, jackfruit fry and chilli chocolate tart.
With traditional dishes reimagined alongside experimental cocktails, Chai Ki offers refuge from the business district.
Address: 1 Crossrail Pl, London E14 5AR
Website: chai-ki.com
Kutir brings ambitious modern Indian cuisine to Chelsea, in a former Michelin-starred restaurant space. Led by acclaimed chef Rohit Ghai, the intimate home-style spot pairs delicate spicing with refined techniques.
Signature hits include lamb shank, cashew-sauced duck breast, and primal lamb chops. Thoughtful touches like palate-refreshing sprouts complement rich dishes. Vegetarians enjoy inspired pairings like paneer and sweetcorn.
While not cheap, Kutir offers sophisticated Indian cooking from a top London chef. With tasting menus and precisely cooked scallops in a rose-scented space, it advances the cuisine with finesse. For inventive Indian flavours by a master, this exclusive Chelsea address delivers.
Address: 10 Lincoln St, London SW3 2TS
Website: kutir.co.uk
Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai celebrates the diversity of regional Indian cuisine in a smart yet informal Fitzrovia setting. Curating home recipes that showcase indigenous ingredients and techniques, the menu explores eclectic flavors from across the country.
Modeled after India's cultural melting pot, seasonal specials complement signature plates meant for sharing. From research to preparation, Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai spotlights the finest traditional dishes and rich variety of Indian food.
Experience Pahli Hill's Chef's Counter to enjoy a bespoke multi-course menu curated by Head Chef Avi Shashidhara. Sit at the kitchen pass on Friday and Saturday evenings for this intimate culinary journey.
Over 7 inventive courses, Chef Avi will guide you through his modern Indian creations and cooking philosophy. Up to 4 guests can book two sittings from 6pm or 8:45pm for £100 per person, including a cocktail and option of added wine pairings.
This exclusive meal lets you witness Chef Avi's artistry up-close while discovering new depths of Indian flavor. Engage with an acclaimed chef and sample a personalized tasting menu at the Chef's Counter.
Address: 79-81 Mortimer St, London W1W 7SJ
Website: pahlihillbandrabhai.com
Madhu's at The Dilly Hotel blends authentic Punjabi cuisine with Kenyan flair. Enjoy four generations of family recipes including highlights cooked on the robata grill. This inventive menu combines secret handed-down dishes with fresh grilled creations. Indulge in Madhu's culinary heritage and passion at this distinctive Indian dining destination.
Address: The Dilly Hotel, 21 Piccadilly, London W1J 0BH
Website: madhus.co.uk/our-restaurants/madhus-mayfair
Celebrated chef Atul Kochhar has been at the forefront of modern Indian cuisine for over 30 years. He was the first Indian chef awarded a Michelin star in 2001 at Tamarind London, earning another in 2007 at Benares.
Kochhar has become the recognizable face of innovative Indian food through TV shows, cookbooks, and media. His entrepreneurial spirit led to BBC's Million Pound Menu. Beyond the kitchen, he dedicates time to charities like the Prince's Trust.
In 2019, Kochhar brought his elevated yet humble Indian cooking approach to Kanishka in Mayfair. Focusing on the unexplored cuisines of India's Sister States, Kanishka became one of London's hottest openings.
Experience Kochhar's fantastic ingredients transformed through simplicity at this fine dining destination on Maddox Street. Atul Kochhar remains dedicated to advancing Indian cuisine globally.
Address: 17-19 Maddox St, London W1S 2QH
Website: kanishkarestaurant.co.uk
Colonel Saab brings modern Indian fine dining to Holborn's historic former Town Hall. Inspired by chef Roop Partap Choudhary's family history, the smart restaurant pays homage to his father's Indian Army travels.
Old jazz sets the mood amidst museum-worthy art. The menu offers contemporary twists on classic Indian textures and aromas - a nostalgic palette of memories from across the subcontinent.
With its blend of old soul and new energy, Colonel Saab delivers an elevated Indian dining experience in a storied Central London setting.
Address: 193-197 High Holborn, London WC1V 7BD
Website: colonelsaab.co.uk
Chai Thali scours India for the nation's best street food - from Old Delhi's chaotic alleys to Mumbai's bustle to Kerala's glittering shores. Traditional aromatic dishes get contemporary twists on their journey from streets to this lively London restaurant.
Experience all of India's diverse street food culture in one spot through reimagined classics bursting with spice and flavor. At Chai Thali, time-honored snacks and meals from across the subcontinent unite on sharing plates meant for savoring.
Address: Workshop, Centro 3, 19 Mandela St NW1 0DU
Website:
chaithali.com
Masala Zone brings pan-Indian cuisine direct from gourmet homes and street stalls to lively London restaurants. Since 2001, their passion for authentic and enjoyable Indian dining has earned acclaim.
The extensive menu pioneered street food and balanced thalis platters alongside regional curries, vegetarian dishes, biryanis and grills. Diverse flavors from India's regions unite in genuine recipes.
With renewed interiors and welcoming service, Masala Zone continues to satisfy cravings for fresh, flavorful Indian fare. Experience the country's rich culinary breadth through their authentic and pioneering dishes.
Address: 48 Floral St, London WC2E 9DA
Website: masalazone.com
Farzi London brings modern Indian cuisine to Haymarket from acclaimed chef Zorawar Kalra. As pioneer of award-winning dining concepts, Kalra aims to showcase the evolution of Indian food globally.
Mentored by his father Jiggs Kalra, "Czar of Indian Cuisine," Kalra's Massive Restaurants group operates innovative restaurants like Masala Library, Farzi Café and Pa Pa Ya. Farzi London's contemporary menu and energetic atmosphere continue Kalra's mission to advance Indian dining.
Through creative fusions and reinventions, this Haymarket hotspot displays the breadth of modern Indian fare.
Address: 8 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4BP
Website: farzilondon.com
I trust these suggestions will assist you in organizing your upcoming gatherings, whether they be dinners with friends or family, romantic dates, or important business meetings. Please don't hesitate to contribute any further recommendations you may have. By fostering an open exchange of ideas, we can refine our choices and pinpoint restaurants that match our preferences.
Disclaimer: Two Mad Travellers makes every effort to credit images used on our site appropriately. Unless otherwise noted, we do not claim ownership of any visual content, which remains the property of its respective copyright holders. When possible, we aim to link back to original sources. If you own the rights to an image and do not want it to appear on our site, please contact us and we will promptly remove it. Proper image attribution is important to us. Our goal is to respect content creators by seeking permission and providing credit. We apologize for any oversight - our intent is never to use visual assets without the owner's consent. Please let us know if we have made an error so we can address it right away and make things right.
ELITE INVESTMENT (EIC) UK LTD T/A Two Mad Travellers
124 City Road
London
EC1V 2NX
+4474128 45804
twomadtravellers@gmail.com
All Rights Reserved | Two Mad Travellers | Website Designed & Maintained by Trill Marketing Ltd