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10 Best Indian Restaurants in London

10 Best Indian Restaurants in London

The ten best Indian restaurants in London are Gymkhana, Dishoom, Quilon, Tamarind, Benares, Ambassadors Clubhouse, Permit Room, The Tamil Prince, Raaz Modern Indian, and Veeraswamy. London’s Indian food culture is a global standard-bearer, with a collection of world-renowned fine-dining rooms and highly original casual concepts. A two-Michelin-star experience is the focus at Gymkhana, while unique specialists like The Tamil Prince serve authentic South Indian food in a traditional pub. London also has hugely popular destinations like Dishoom, which recreates the Irani cafés of old Bombay.

These restaurants are found in upscale Central London neighborhoods like Mayfair and Covent Garden, as well as in local areas like Islington and Finchley. The best Indian restaurant London scene includes Michelin-starred fine-dining rooms, regional home-style kitchens, and creative gastropubs. The atmospheres range from the exclusive, club-like setting of Gymkhana to the bustling, retro-themed dining halls of Dishoom. This incredible scope, from historic landmarks to groundbreaking modern kitchens, is a key feature of the city's food identity.

London's Indian kitchens are celebrated for both their adherence to tradition and their innovation. Gymkhana stands out as the best Indian London has for an overall experience, noted for its exceptional two-Michelin-star cooking, sophisticated atmosphere, and unique colonial club theme. For a casual and lively meal, Dishoom is a top choice, known for its immersive Bombay café concept and signature dishes like the House Black Daal. The distinction of being the best Michelin star Indian London restaurant for a historic fine-dining meal goes to Veeraswamy, the UK's oldest Indian restaurant. Restaurants such as Dishoom and Quilon provide extensive menus for vegan and gluten-free diets.

10 Best Indian Restaurants in London are listed below.

1 Dishoom
2 Tamarind
3 Benares
4 Gymkhana
5 Quilon
6 Ambassadors Clubhouse
7 Permit Room
8 The Tamil Prince
9 Raaz Modern Indian
10 Veeraswamy

What Makes Indian Restaurants in London Famous?

Indian restaurants in London are famous for their exceptional quality and remarkable range, from world-class, Michelin-starred fine dining in Mayfair to innovative gastropubs in Islington. London is a global center for Indian cuisine, with historic establishments like Veeraswamy, the UK's oldest, operating alongside modern, two-Michelin-star destinations like Gymkhana. The city's Indian food culture is also defined by highly specific concepts, such as the Bombay-style Irani café Dishoom and the South Indian pub The Tamil Prince. This co-existence of groundbreaking fine dining, authentic regional specialists, and creative casual concepts makes London's Indian food scene one of the most dynamic in the world.

What Types of Indian Restaurants are Commonly Found in London?

London's Indian restaurants include many kinds, such as Michelin-starred Fine Dining, Regional South Indian, and Bombay-style Cafés. The different categories are described here:

Michelin-Starred Fine Dining: London has a high concentration of Michelin-starred Indian restaurants that present the cuisine with refined techniques and high-quality ingredients. Gymkhana, Quilon, Tamarind, Benares, and Veeraswamy are all examples, primarily located in upscale neighborhoods like Mayfair and St. James's.
Regional South Indian: These restaurants focus on the food of Southern India. Quilon is a fine-dining example specializing in coastal seafood from Kerala, while The Tamil Prince serves homestyle Tamil food in a pub setting.
Bombay-style Cafés and Bars: This category is defined by restaurants that replicate the food and atmosphere of Mumbai's historic Irani cafés or modern bars. Dishoom is the most famous example, while Permit Room focuses on the drinks and snacks of a Bombay "permit room."
Indian Gastropubs: This unique format combines a traditional British pub with an Indian kitchen. The Tamil Prince is a leading example, serving South Indian food alongside pints of beer in a classic pub environment.
North Indian and Pakistani: These establishments serve the classic tandoori dishes and rich curries of Northern India and Pakistan. Ambassadors Clubhouse is a popular local example known for its traditional karahi and grilled meats.

Are There Authentic Indian Restaurants in London?

Yes, authentic Indian restaurants exist in London, including Gymkhana, Quilon, and The Tamil Prince. Gymkhana is a two-Michelin-star restaurant that serves classic Indian dishes inspired by the elite clubs of India, with a focus on traditional tandoori and chatpatta preparations. Quilon is a Michelin-starred restaurant dedicated to the specific coastal food of Southwest India, particularly Kerala, using authentic recipes and ingredients. The Tamil Prince is a neighborhood pub that serves a menu of homestyle South Indian and Tamil food, staying true to its regional roots.

What are the Signature Dishes at the Best Indian Restaurants in London?

The signature dishes at the best Indian restaurants in London are Kid Goat Methi Keema, House Black Daal, and Fisherman's Catch. The leading Indian restaurants in London are known for the following standout dishes:

Kid Goat Methi Keema: A signature dish at the two-Michelin-star Gymkhana, featuring minced kid goat cooked with fenugreek leaves, spices, and served with bread for scooping.
House Black Daal: A rich and creamy slow-cooked black lentil dish from Dishoom. It is cooked for over 24 hours to achieve its signature texture and flavor.
Fisherman’s Catch: A representative seafood curry from the Michelin-starred Quilon, made with a selection of fresh fish and seafood simmered in a coconut and tamarind-based sauce, typical of coastal Kerala.
Bacon Naan Roll: A famous breakfast dish from Dishoom, consisting of freshly baked naan bread filled with bacon, cream cheese, and a chili-tomato jam.
Wild Muntjac Biryani: A refined game dish from Gymkhana, featuring wild muntjac deer cooked with fragrant basmati rice in a sealed pot, served with a pomegranate and mint raita.

Is Indian Food Popular in London?

Yes, Indian food is extremely popular in London and is considered an integral part of the city's food culture. The high number and critical acclaim of Indian restaurants, including numerous Michelin-starred establishments, demonstrate this popularity. The cuisine is found in every corner of the city, from high-end restaurants in Central London to local curry houses in residential neighborhoods. The widespread success of restaurant groups like Dishoom and the historical significance of places like Veeraswamy confirm that Indian food is a staple of London dining.

What is the Average Price of a Meal at an Indian Restaurant in London?

The price of a meal at an Indian restaurant in London can be anywhere from under £30 to over £200 per person. For a budget-friendly choice, a meal at a casual local spot like Ambassadors Clubhouse is between £25 and £45. A mid-range eatery such as Dishoom or The Tamil Prince will generally have a meal cost between £40 and £70. In a Michelin-starred fine-dining setting like Gymkhana or Benares, a full dinner experience will exceed £150 and can be more than £200 with wine.

Do Indian Restaurants in London Offer Vegan Options?

Yes, Indian restaurants in London offer vegan options, and Dishoom, Quilon, and Gymkhana are a few that serve plant-based dishes. Dishoom has a separate and extensive vegan menu that includes plant-based versions of its most popular dishes. Michelin-starred restaurants like Quilon and Gymkhana also offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus or can accommodate vegan diners with specially prepared dishes. Many South Indian dishes are naturally vegan.

Do Indian Restaurants in London Offer Gluten-Free Options?

Yes, Indian restaurants in London offer gluten-free options, including Dishoom, Quilon, and Gymkhana. Dishoom provides a detailed gluten-free menu, and many of its grilled dishes and curries are made without gluten. At fine-dining restaurants like Quilon and Gymkhana, the majority of the menus, outside of bread, are gluten-free. Rice-based dishes and those made with lentils are common gluten-free choices available at most Indian restaurants.