Best Indian restaurants in London: 33 spots to spice up your life

Looking for the best Indian restaurants in London? You won’t have to look far. The capital is home to one of the world’s most exciting dining scenesand few cuisines have captured British hearts quite like Indian food. From cheap Indian eats and authentic curry houses to sleekMichelin-starred Indian restaurantsLondon offers something for every taste and budget.

Over the past decadediners have come to appreciate the incredible diversity of Indian cuisine. Each region brings its own distinctive flavours and traditions. In the northa strong Mughal influence means plenty of rich dairy-based curriespaneer dishes and breads cooked in communal tandoors - once used only for bakingbefore meat was introduced during the British Raj.

Travel west to Gujarat and Goaand you’ll find lightermore coastal fare. Gujarati cuisine is largely vegetarian and sometimes fused with Chinese influenceswhile Goan food reflects its Portuguese heritagefeaturing porkbeef and plenty of coconut milk. Every region tells a different storyand London’s Indian restaurants capture that variety beautifully; todayyou’ll find everything from vibrant Indian street food and creative small plates to refined modern Indian fine dining. The city even boasts several Michelin-starred Indian restaurantsunderlining just how highly regarded the cuisine has become.

With so many optionschoosing where to go can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated this guide to the best Indian restaurants in Londonfrom laid-back curry spots to high-end tasting menus. Every restaurant featured has been tried and tested by our expert criticsensuring you’ll find the perfect place whether you’re craving butter chickenchaat or something entirely new.

Best fine dining Indian restaurants in London

London’s Indian fine dining scene is world-class - a mix of old-school charm and boldmodern energy that proves Indian food can be every bit as elegant as anything else. Only four Indian restaurants in the world hold two Michelin stars or moreand London is home to one of them - Gymkhana.

JamavarMayfair

What: This much-lauded fine dining restaurant scores highly on everythingfrom décor and atmosphere to the divine food. The menu hops merrily around India’s many regionsso you’ll find dishes ranging from goat kebabs to sea bass currywith plenty in between. Early birds can enjoy a set menu for a good pricegiven the quality on offer at Jamavar. Whatever you dodon’t miss the dessert menu.
Where: 8 Mount StreetW1K 3NF
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Jamavar
Book now: Jamavar

BiBiMayfair

What: Awarded our best restaurant in London award in 2022BiBi is a monumental restaurant that blends a wide array of influences to serve up dishes that are unique and contemporarybut still have the essence of recognisable Indian cuisine. Chef patron Chet Sharma spent time in development at restaurant juggernauts like L'EnclumeMoor HallThe Ledbury and Mugaritzso it's no wonder that this young starlet is making waves in Mayfair. Some of the menu changes up seasonally but you can't go to BiBi and not eat Chet's Lahori Chicken - it's one of the most delicious single dishes anywhere in London.
Where: 42 North Audley StreetW1K 6ZR
Book now: BiBi

The Cinnamon ClubWestminster

What: Set within a galleriedbook-lined room (formerly the Old Westminster Library)this famous institution established by acclaimed chef Vivek Singh is a must-visit for anyone who’s serious about Indian food. Beautifully-spiced dishes on offer at The Cinnamon Club are made even more tempting by perfect presentationwhich is all part of the well-heeled package here. Portions are petite and prices are steepbut professionalism and quality such as this doesn’t come cheap. Look out for guest chef dinnerswhich are always enticing. 
Where: The Old Westminster LibraryWestminsterSW1P 3BU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at The Cinnamon Club
Book now: The Cinnamon Club

Colonel SaabTrafalgar Square and Holborn

What: Instantly recognisable thanks to its dazzling interiorsColonel Saab’s two locations have become popular for those who appreciate something that feels special. Both sites are littered with troves of old Indian art and artefactsmost of which come from founder Roop Partap Choudhary’s family. The foodmeanwhilepaints India in broad brush strokescovering street food favourites to celebratory dishes taken from royal kitchensand there are menus for all occasionsfrom tasting and pre-theatreto afternoon tea.
Where: 42 William IV StreetWC2N 4DD; 193-197 High HolbornWC1V 7BD
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Colonel Saab Trafalgar Square
Book now: Colonel Saab Trafalgar Square; Colonel Saab High Holborn

The Curry RoomVictoria

What: Enter a world of jewel-encrustedRaj-era opulence at The Curry Roomhoused inside The Rubens at The Palace - by any metricone of London’s most luxurious hotels. The cooking here majors in comforting currieswith inspiration taken from all over India on a menu that leans from Bengal fish curryto butter chickento Punjabi lamb curry. Stillthe food is only part of the experience - The Curry Room is really about the old-world charmwith oxblood Chesterfield sofasembroidered Rajasthani tapestries and vintage ornaments giving it a unique vibe.
Where: The Rubens at the PalaceSW1W 0PS
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at The Rubens at the Palace
Book now: The Curry Room

KahaniBelgravia

What: Peter Joseph brings a wealth of experience to Kahani (he was previously the head chef of well-respected Tamarind) and his menu in this smart Chelsea townhouse is full of delicious dishes. It’ll be fairly familiar to anyone who enjoys Indian food - there’s some superb tandoori dishesas well as excellent curries and so much more besides. SureKahani isn’t breaking boundaries but it delivers delicious food and superb serviceand what more could you want?
Where: 1 Wilbraham PlaceSW1X 9AE
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Kahani
Book now: Kahani

KutirChelsea

What: Rohit Ghai's original solo venturethe smartglitzy dining rooms at Kutir make an entrancing setting for modern Indian cooking. Inspired by India’s vast and rich heritage and wildlifeKutir offers diners the opportunity to enjoy traditional flavours in refined dishes such as lamb with black cardamomand black lentil dalfollowed by sweet creations like rhubarb Falooda - a cold milk-based dessert - with kulfi and saffron. 
Where: 10 Lincoln StreetSW3 2TS
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Kutir
Book now: Kutir

BenaresMayfair

What: This highly regarded establishment has a talent for changing the way people perceive and experience Indian cuisinethanks to its French-inspired approach to spice-based cooking. Named after India’s holy cityBenares marries tradition with modernityboth in the kitchen and with its elegant yet exotic interiorso anyone looking for a standard curry should look elsewhere. Kindlyengaging staff deliver spotless service and while prices are befitting of the restaurant’s Mayfair locationit’s well worth a visit on special occasions.
Where: 12a Berkeley SquareW1J 6BS
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Benares
Book now: Benares

AmayaBelgravia

What: Boasting shiny surfaces and a ‘theatre’ kitchen at the heart of the sleek dining roomthis glamorous venue has star quality written all over it. LuckilyAmaya’s menu keeps pace with the clever design spec as the chefs fashion succulent and creatively spiced Indian- tapas from their array of tandoorstawa hotplates and sigri grills. Regulars confirm that the Michelin-starred restaurant’s premium prices are fully justifiedbut that doesn’t mean it won’t hurt to get the bill.
Where: Halkin ArcadeSW1X 8JT
Book now: Amaya

GymkhanaMayfair

What: It’s difficult not to reach for the superlatives when talking about this two Michelin-starred Mayfair thrillerand for good reason. Gymkhana’s menu happily accommodates all palates and preferenceswhether your taste is for a gently-spiced pilau or a fearsome vindaloo - whatever you order is going to be exceptional. Gymkhana was refurbished after a fire a few years back - now it's looking swankier than ever.
Where: 42 Albemarle StreetW1S 4JH
Book now: Gymkhana

VeeraswamyMayfair

What: Founded in 1926Veeraswamy is still flying the flag as the oldest Indian restaurant in London. The plum Regent Street location means that you’ll be rubbing shoulders with a wide range of clientelewho are all there to enjoy a menu that takes inspiration from all over Indiaserving contemporary versions of regional classics.
Where: Victory HouseW1B 4RS
Book now: Veeraswamy

Best casual Indian restaurants in London

When all you’re after is a comforting currya warm naan and a pile of poppadomsLondon’s more laid-back Indian restaurants have you covered. They’re every bit as tasty as the high-end spots - just without the eye-watering bill.

DishoomVarious locations

What: There’s a good reason for the near-constant queues outside the flagship restaurant of this now UK-wide group of Bombay- cafés: Dishoom’s reliable all-day menu that includes an aromatic biryani dish of chicken berry Britanniaand ever-popular naan rolls filled with things like bacon and eggs. The drinks list keeps up the good workwith lassis and craft beersplus exciting cocktails to enjoy in the basement bar if you’re waiting for a table. Where: Various locations
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Dishoom King's Cross; or Dishoom Shoreditch
Book now: Dishoom Covent Garden; Dishoom King's Cross; Dishoom Shoreditch; Dishoom Battersea; Dishoom Kensington; Dishoom Carnaby; Dishoom Canary Wharf

GazzabShepherd's Bush

What: We love this stylish Shepherd’s Bush hangout for the chicmodern interiorsas well as the slightly more contemporary take on Indian cooking. The menu blends traditional Indian flavours with modern techniqueswith classics like lamb shank rogan joshGoan prawn curryand halloumi makhani given a bit of artsy elevationbut not at the expense of the flavours. There’s also a unique brunch offering that fuses Indian and English flavourswith some delicious results. Don’t forget the lovely terrace - a summer suntrap that is also dog-friendlyfor any locals looking for somewhere to hang out with the pooch.
Where: 245 Goldhawk RoadW12 8EU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Gazzab
Book now: Gazzab

SripurTower Hill

What: This business-friendly Tower Hill favourite has served authentic Indian cuisine for over 30 yearsblending classic and contemporary dishes using seasonal Asian produce. Interiors are smart but relaxedwhilst light wood panelling and abundant foliage gives the dining room a welcomingtropical vibe. The extensive menu features tandoori starterssignature curries like shorisha chicken and the alarmingly spicy Bollywood Blastwhich contains MexicanNaga and African chillies. With vegetarian optionsdessertsand a full drinks licenseSripur is ideal for tourists and locals alike exploring London’s historic heart.
Where: 25 Great Tower StreetEC3R 5AQ
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Sripur
Book now: Sripur

AnokhaCity of London

What: Anokha nails the location and the cookingserving up some thoroughly deliciousauthentic Indian plates from a historic Grade II-listed former tea warehouse in the City. You’ll find it just around the corner from Leadenhall Marketbut don’t be fooled by the outside - insidethe dining room makes a statement with mood-lightingcheckerboard floors and darkvelvet upholstery. Meanwhilethe menu flits from bigbold cooking like grilled Achari lamb chops to lightermore health-conscious optionsbut the tasting menu is the easiest way to experience the best of this intriguing newcomer.
Where: 2 Creechurch LaneEC3A 5AY
Book now: Anokha

Masala ZoneVarious locations

What: Consistently excellent for 25 yearsMasala Zone has always been a reliable stop for accessible Indian cooking. With four big sites across central and west Londonand a menu that takes a broad approach to India’s diverseregional cuisinethis is the sort of place that has something delicious to feed absolutely anyone. Back that up with pleasingly glitzy interiorsand special brunch and afternoon tea menusand it’s no wonder Masala Zone remains hugely popular.
Where: 48 Floral StreetWC2E 9DA; 224 PiccadillyW1J 9HP; 147 Earl's Court RoadSW5 9RQ; 9 Marshall StreetW1F 7ER
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Masala Zone Covent Garden; Masala Zone Piccadilly Circus; or Masala Zone Soho
Book now: Masala Zone Covent Garden; Masala Zone Piccadilly Circus; Masala Zone Soho; Masala Zone Earl's Court

Dishoom Permit Room PortobelloNotting Hill

What: Dishoom’s UK success has been just as much about the outstanding drinks offering as it has about the foodand Permit Room takes the drinks side furtherrecreating the vibe and of Bombay’s iconic prohibition-era ‘permit room’ drinking establishments. The result? More outstanding cocktailsfrom a Mango Lassi Punch to Kiwi Colada Shimmywith plenty of Dishoom- sharing food to go with them. There’s also a dedicated dessert menuwith kulfi ice cream sandwiches and more.
Where: 186 Portobello RoadW11 1LA
Book now: Dishoom Permit Room Portobello

Bombay BustleMayfair

What: A younger sibling to big-hitting Jamavar delivers fundynamic Indian cookingwith a menu that pays homage to the dynamism of Bombay. As a resultBombay Bustle majors on street food and chaatbefore diving into more substantial tandoori dishescurriesand a handful of spectacular biryanis. Interiors deliver a hefty dose of Art Decowith overhead luggage racks and cut-glass screens that mirror the prevailing of India’s railways.
Where: 29 Maddox StreetW1S 2PA
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Bombay Bustle
Book now: Bombay Bustle

City MasalaCity of London

What: Tucked away on Fetter LaneCity Masala is a lunchtime lifesaver and dinner go-to for fans of proper Indian comfort food. Expect sizzling sheek kebabscreamy kormasfiery vindaloos and veggie favourites like aloo gobi and matar paneer. The set lunch menu is a steal tooand if your fave dish isn’t listedjust ask - they’ll likely whip it up.
Where: 95 Fetter LaneEC4A 1EP
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at City Masala
Book now: City Masala

PotliHammersmith

What: Beloved by Hammersmith localsPotli has the whole package when it comes to Indian cooking. This cosy restaurant is brimming with personalitystaff are enthusiastic and brilliantand the food is second to none. Dive into the generously sized sharing plattersgoat curry and cardamom bruleeand don’t miss the fabulous Old Delhi Mojito.
Where: 319-321 King StreetW6 9NH
Book now: Potli

PravaasSouth Kensington

What: This tidystylish South Kensington spot mixes things up a little compared to your classicauthentic curry housesoffering something more creative. The foundation of Pravaas’ menu is in Gujarati cookingbut twists like wasabi fried chicken off something unique and delicious among London’s top Indian restaurants.
Where: 3 Glendower PlaceSW7 3DU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Pravaas
Book now: Pravaas

Mint Leaf LoungeCity of London

What: Located in the heart of the Citythis slick Indian joint serces up deftly spiced modern plates that feel far more refined than your average curry feast. Appetisers include tiger prawns with black onion seeds and spiced yoghurtwhile main courses span a coconutty prawn curry to braised leg of lamb with kashmiri chilli. It also offers a great-valuethree-course set menu which includes a cocktail or mocktail. 
Where: 12 Angel CourtEC2R 7HB
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Mint Leaf Lounge
Book now: Mint Leaf Lounge

Cinnamon BazaarCovent Garden and Richmond

What: A youngermore affordable offshoot from Vivek Singh’s excellent Cinnamon Club (also in this listby the way)Cinnamon Bazaar conjures the vivid sightssmells and flavours of an Indian bazaarright down to the colourful linen awnings running across the ceiling. The food is relaxedexcitingdeliciousand phenomenal value given the quality.
Where: 28 Maiden LaneWC2E 7JS
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Cinnamon Bazaar Covent Garden; or Cinnamon Bazaar Richmond
Book now: Cinnamon Bazaar Covent Garden; Cinnamon Bazaar Richmond

Farzi LondonSt. James's

What: Farzi has a reputation in India for tableside theatrics and the London outpost also delivers when it comes to aestheticswith glitzy golden interiors flickering in the candlelight. The menu takes inspiration from far and widenot just in India but also BangladeshAfghanistan and even Nepal. Sizzling kebabs always manage to get the party startedas do Farzi’s theatrical cocktails.
Where: 8 HaymarketSW1Y 4BP
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Farzi London
Book now: Farzi London

GunpowderSoho

What: On Greek Streetin the heart of SohoGunpowder (which has Tower Bridge and Spitalfields outposts too) may come across as low-keybut the food is explosive. Rich in rustic Indian sharing dishes inspired by family recipesthe menu features the likes of pork ribs with crunchy tamarind kachumberGoan grilled prawnsand spicy venison and vermicelli doughnut. Decor is simplebut who cares when the food is this good and prices are reasonable?
Where: 11 White's RowSpitalfieldsE1 7NF; 4 Duchess WalkTower BridgeSE1 2SD
Book now: Gunpowder Soho; Gunpowder Spitalfields; Gunpowder Tower Bridge

Darjeeling ExpressSoho

What: After a star-making turn on Netflix's Chef's Table seriesAsma Khan can count herself among London's mots famousrecognisable chefs. She heads up Darjeeling Express in Carnaby Streetserving up some of the best Indian food London has to offerand Khan fans will be glad to know that she is often in the restaurant doing the rounds. What started as a supperclub for a table of 12using family recipes that go back generationshas since snowballed into a hugely admired restaurant with a bit of a cult following. Better yet? It’s an all women team. Expect chilli cheese toastiespaneer kormaand spiced beetroot croquettes.
Where: Kingly CourtCarnaby StreetW1B 5PW
Book now: The Darjeeling Express

BrigadiersCity of London

What: An Indian barbecue restaurant and sports barpitched in mood midway between the cheap thrills of Hoppers and the flashiness of GymkhanaBrigadiers is particularly well-suited to group dining. With half a dozen menu sections to choose fromincluding ‘beer snacks’‘sizzlers and kebabs’ and ‘rotisserie and wood oven’it’s best to round up as many friends as possible and order the lot. Failing thatbe sure to try the barbecue butter chicken wings and chilli-cheese naan – two outstanding dishes.
Where: 1-5 Bloomberg ArcadeEC4N 8AR
Book now: Brigadiers

TayyabsWhitechapel

What: Legendary among Londonersthis Whitechapel institution has been going strong since the early seventies andjudging by the huge queues out the door each nightshows no signs of slowing down. As popular with families and students as it is with rowdy City parties and mates on the townTayyabs remains one of London’s favourite low-budget eateries thanks to its famous lamb chops and BYOB policy. Quick service is guaranteedwhich is just what you want when you’ve waited an hour for a table.
Where: 83-89 Fieldgate StreetE1 1JU
Book now: Tayyabs

RasaStoke Newington

What: Once a hidden gem on Stoke Newington Church StreetLondoners far and wide have since heard about the exploits of Keralan chef Das Sreedharanand his fabulous restaurant in this north east London neighbourhood. Rasa specialises in the meatless cooking of India’s Nair communityso get stuck into fresh paneerlentil currygorgeous parathas and kulfis with zero guilt.
Where: 55 Stoke Newington Church StreetN16 0AR
Book now: Rasa

The Great IndianArchway

What: Housed in a beautifully restored 1898 pub in ArchwayThe Great Indian reimagines classic cuisine with innovative twistsmaking this hidden gem a must-visit in the capital's Indian dining scene. With menus curated by Michelin-starred Surjan Singhexpect everything from hot and sticky pork ribs and prawn dosas to more traditional favourites such as chicken biryani and braised lamb curry. 
Where: 139 Marlborough RoadN19 4NU
Book now: The Great Indian

BaburDulwich

What: Cosyartful interiors meet some serious high quality cooking at Baburwhich has Londoners flocking to Dulwich for a taste of clove-smoked lamb chops and goat shoulder tikka. Menus take inspiration from India’s north and southmarrying the two with elegance across a huge a la carte (though there are also excellent set lunchSunday buffet and tasting menus if you don’t want the stress of choosing).
Where: 119 Brockley RiseSE23 1JP
Book now: Babur

The Tamil PrinceIslington

What: The Tamil Prince is the brainchild of ex Roti King executive chef and JKS general managerso there’s no surprise it’s made it to our list of best Indians in London. Run from an old pub in Islingtonthere are a variety of small plates and main dishes from Southern India to choose fromspecialising in food from the chef's home in Tamil Nadu. Expect everything from chicken lollipops with sweet chilli chutney to grilled tiger prawns with garlic masalabut more importantly expect some of the best roti in London.
Where: 115 Hemingford RoadN1 1BZ
Book now: The Tamil Prince

KricketVarious locations

What: We love this Soho branch of the legendary Brixton pop-upboth for its buzzy atmosphere and incredible eats. The concise menu features a core list of Kricket classicssuch as bhel puris and Keralan fried chicken with curry-leaf mayonnaise, plus a few seasonal specialswhile the drinks list contains gems such as rum-spiked masala chai. Part of Kricket’s charm is the counter dining set-upthough there are larger tables in the basement for groups.
Where: 12 Denman StreetW1D 7HH; 41-43 Atlantic RoadSW9 3JS; 35-42 Charlotte RoadEC2A 3PB; Unit 6 Frobisher PassageE14 4EE
Book now: Kricket Soho; Kricket Brixton; Kricket Shoreditch; Kricket Canary Wharf

If you love Indian food and you're planning a private dinnerwe've got the perfect guide for you - a round-up of our favourite Indian private dining rooms in London. We’ve scoured the city to bring you a curated selectionfrom luxurious fine-dining to intimatefamily-run restaurantsall with private areas for hire.