Best Indian restaurants in London: 34 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 scenes, and few cuisines have captured British hearts quite like Indian food. From cheap Indian eats and authentic curry houses to sleek, Michelin-starred Indian restaurants, London offers something for every taste and budget.

Over the past decade, diners have come to appreciate the incredible diversity of Indian cuisine. Each region brings its own distinctive flavours and traditions. In the north, a strong Mughal influence means plenty of rich dairy-based curries, paneer dishes and breads cooked in communal tandoors - once used only for baking, before meat was introduced during the British Raj.

Travel west to Gujarat and Goa, and you’ll find lighter, more coastal fare. Gujarati cuisine is largely vegetarian and sometimes fused with Chinese influences, while Goan food reflects its Portuguese heritage, featuring pork, beef and plenty of coconut milk. Every region tells a different story, and London’s Indian restaurants capture that variety beautifully; today, you’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 restaurants, underlining just how highly regarded the cuisine has become.

With so many options, choosing where to go can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated this guide to the best Indian restaurants in London, from laid-back curry spots to high-end tasting menus. Every restaurant featured has been tried and tested by our expert critics, ensuring you’ll find the perfect place whether you’re craving butter chicken, chaat 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 bold, modern 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 more, and London is home to one of them - Gymkhana.

Jamavar, Mayfair

What: This much-lauded fine dining restaurant scores highly on everything, from décor and atmosphere to the divine food. The menu hops merrily around India’s many regions, so you’ll find dishes ranging from goat kebabs to sea bass curry, with plenty in between. Early birds can enjoy a set menu for a good price, given the quality on offer at Jamavar. Whatever you do, don’t miss the dessert menu.
Where: 8 Mount Street, W1K 3NF
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Jamavar
Book now: Jamavar

BiBi, Mayfair

What: Awarded our best restaurant in London award in 2022, BiBi is a monumental restaurant that blends a wide array of influences to serve up dishes that are unique and contemporary, but still have the essence of recognisable Indian cuisine. Chef patron Chet Sharma spent time in development at restaurant juggernauts like L'Enclume, Moor Hall, The Ledbury and Mugaritz, so 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 Street, W1K 6ZR
Book now: BiBi

The Cinnamon Club, Westminster

What: Set within a galleried, book-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 presentation, which is all part of the well-heeled package here. Portions are petite and prices are steep, but professionalism and quality such as this doesn’t come cheap. Look out for guest chef dinners, which are always enticing. 
Where: The Old Westminster Library, Westminster, SW1P 3BU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at The Cinnamon Club
Book now: The Cinnamon Club

Colonel Saab, Trafalgar Square and Holborn

What: Instantly recognisable thanks to its dazzling interiors, Colonel 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 artefacts, most of which come from founder Roop Partap Choudhary’s family. The food, meanwhile, paints India in broad brush strokes, covering street food favourites to celebratory dishes taken from royal kitchens, and there are menus for all occasions, from tasting and pre-theatre, to afternoon tea.
Where: 42 William IV Street, WC2N 4DD; 193-197 High Holborn, WC1V 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 Room, Victoria

What: Enter a world of jewel-encrusted, Raj-era opulence at The Curry Room, housed inside The Rubens at The Palace - by any metric, one of London’s most luxurious hotels. The cooking here majors in comforting curries, with inspiration taken from all over India on a menu that leans from Bengal fish curry, to butter chicken, to Punjabi lamb curry. Still, the food is only part of the experience - The Curry Room is really about the old-world charm, with oxblood Chesterfield sofas, embroidered Rajasthani tapestries and vintage ornaments giving it a unique vibe.
Where: The Rubens at the Palace, SW1W 0PS
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at The Rubens at the Palace
Book now: The Curry Room

Kahani, Belgravia

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 dishes, as well as excellent curries and so much more besides. Sure, Kahani isn’t breaking boundaries but it delivers delicious food and superb service, and what more could you want?
Where: 1 Wilbraham Place, SW1X 9AE
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Kahani
Book now: Kahani

Kutir, Chelsea

What: Rohit Ghai's original solo venture, the smart, glitzy dining rooms at Kutir make an entrancing setting for modern Indian cooking. Inspired by India’s vast and rich heritage and wildlife, Kutir offers diners the opportunity to enjoy traditional flavours in refined dishes such as lamb with black cardamom, and black lentil dal, followed by sweet creations like rhubarb Falooda - a cold milk-based dessert - with kulfi and saffron. 
Where: 10 Lincoln Street, SW3 2TS
Book now: Kutir

Benares, Mayfair

What: This highly regarded establishment has a talent for changing the way people perceive and experience Indian cuisine, thanks to its French-inspired approach to spice-based cooking. Named after India’s holy city, Benares marries tradition with modernity, both in the kitchen and with its elegant yet exotic interior, so anyone looking for a standard curry should look elsewhere. Kindly, engaging staff deliver spotless service and while prices are befitting of the restaurant’s Mayfair location, it’s well worth a visit on special occasions.
Where: 12a Berkeley Square, W1J 6BS
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Benares
Book now: Benares

Amaya, Belgravia

What: Boasting shiny surfaces and a ‘theatre’ kitchen at the heart of the sleek dining room, this glamorous venue has star quality written all over it. Luckily, Amaya’s menu keeps pace with the clever design spec as the chefs fashion succulent and creatively spiced Indian-style tapas from their array of tandoors, tawa hotplates and sigri grills. Regulars confirm that the Michelin-starred restaurant’s premium prices are fully justified, but that doesn’t mean it won’t hurt to get the bill.
Where: Halkin Arcade, SW1X 8JT
Book now: Amaya

Vatavaran, Knightsbridge

What: Set in the heart of Knightsbridge, Vatavaran brings its own innovative approach to traditional Indian cuisine, drawing inspiration from the rich and varied flavours of the Himalayas. Rohit Ghai (formerly of the Michelin-starred Jamavar) leads the kitchen, bringing authentic recipes with modern techniques. Expect bold curries such as butter chicken and duck rogan josh, alongside a strong selection of grills and rotisserie dishes. The upstairs Shikhar cocktail bar makes for a stylish setting for a pre- or post-dinner drink.
Where: 14-15 Beauchamp Place, SW3 1NQ
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Vatavaran
Book now: Vatavaran

Gymkhana, Mayfair

What: It’s difficult not to reach for the superlatives when talking about this two Michelin-starred Mayfair thriller, and for good reason. Gymkhana’s menu happily accommodates all palates and preferences, whether 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 Street, W1S 4JH
Book now: Gymkhana

Veeraswamy, Mayfair

What: Founded in 1926, Veeraswamy 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 clientele, who are all there to enjoy a menu that takes inspiration from all over India, serving contemporary versions of regional classics.
Where: Victory House, W1B 4RS
Book now: Veeraswamy

Best casual Indian restaurants in London

When all you’re after is a comforting curry, a warm naan and a pile of poppadoms, London’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.

Dishoom, Various locations

What: There’s a good reason for the near-constant queues outside the flagship restaurant of this now UK-wide group of Bombay-style cafés: Dishoom’s reliable all-day menu that includes an aromatic biryani dish of chicken berry Britannia, and ever-popular naan rolls filled with things like bacon and eggs. The drinks list keeps up the good work, with lassis and craft beers, plus 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

Gazzab, Shepherd's Bush

What: We love this stylish Shepherd’s Bush hangout for the chic, modern interiors, as well as the slightly more contemporary take on Indian cooking. The menu blends traditional Indian flavours with modern techniques, with classics like lamb shank rogan josh, Goan prawn curry, and halloumi makhani given a bit of artsy elevation, but not at the expense of the flavours. There’s also a unique brunch offering that fuses Indian and English flavours, with some delicious results. Don’t forget the lovely terrace - a summer suntrap that is also dog-friendly, for any locals looking for somewhere to hang out with the pooch.
Where: 245 Goldhawk Road, W12 8EU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Gazzab
Book now: Gazzab

Sripur, Tower Hill

What: This business-friendly Tower Hill favourite has served authentic Indian cuisine for over 30 years, blending classic and contemporary dishes using seasonal Asian produce. Interiors are smart but relaxed, whilst light wood panelling and abundant foliage gives the dining room a welcoming, tropical vibe. The extensive menu features tandoori starters, signature curries like shorisha chicken and the alarmingly spicy Bollywood Blast, which contains Mexican, Naga and African chillies. With vegetarian options, desserts, and a full drinks license, Sripur is ideal for tourists and locals alike exploring London’s historic heart.
Where: 25 Great Tower Street, EC3R 5AQ
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Sripur
Book now: Sripur

Anokha, City of London

What: Anokha nails the location and the cooking, serving up some thoroughly delicious, authentic Indian plates from a historic Grade II-listed former tea warehouse in the City. You’ll find it just around the corner from Leadenhall Market, but don’t be fooled by the outside - inside, the dining room makes a statement with mood-lighting, checkerboard floors and dark, velvet upholstery. Meanwhile, the menu flits from big, bold cooking like grilled Achari lamb chops to lighter, more health-conscious options, but the tasting menu is the easiest way to experience the best of this intriguing newcomer.
Where: 2 Creechurch Lane, EC3A 5AY
Book now: Anokha

Masala Zone, Various locations

What: Consistently excellent for 25 years, Masala Zone has always been a reliable stop for accessible Indian cooking. With four big sites across central and west London, and a menu that takes a broad approach to India’s diverse, regional cuisine, this is the sort of place that has something delicious to feed absolutely anyone. Back that up with pleasingly glitzy interiors, and special brunch and afternoon tea menus, and it’s no wonder Masala Zone remains hugely popular.
Where: 48 Floral Street, WC2E 9DA; 224 Piccadilly, W1J 9HP; 147 Earl's Court Road, SW5 9RQ; 9 Marshall Street, W1F 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 Portobello, Notting Hill

What: Dishoom’s UK success has been just as much about the outstanding drinks offering as it has about the food, and Permit Room takes the drinks side further, recreating the vibe and style of Bombay’s iconic prohibition-era ‘permit room’ drinking establishments. The result? More outstanding cocktails, from a Mango Lassi Punch to Kiwi Colada Shimmy, with plenty of Dishoom-style sharing food to go with them. There’s also a dedicated dessert menu, with kulfi ice cream sandwiches and more.
Where: 186 Portobello Road, W11 1LA
Book now: Dishoom Permit Room Portobello

Bombay Bustle, Mayfair

What: A younger sibling to big-hitting Jamavar delivers fun, dynamic Indian cooking, with a menu that pays homage to the dynamism of Bombay. As a result, Bombay Bustle majors on street food and chaat, before diving into more substantial tandoori dishes, curries, and a handful of spectacular biryanis. Interiors deliver a hefty dose of Art Deco, with overhead luggage racks and cut-glass screens that mirror the prevailing style of India’s railways.
Where: 29 Maddox Street, W1S 2PA
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Bombay Bustle
Book now: Bombay Bustle

City Masala, City of London

What: Tucked away on Fetter Lane, City Masala is a lunchtime lifesaver and dinner go-to for fans of proper Indian comfort food. Expect sizzling sheek kebabs, creamy kormas, fiery vindaloos and veggie favourites like aloo gobi and matar paneer. The set lunch menu is a steal too, and if your fave dish isn’t listed, just ask - they’ll likely whip it up.
Where: 95 Fetter Lane, EC4A 1EP
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at City Masala
Book now: City Masala

Potli, Hammersmith

What: Beloved by Hammersmith locals, Potli has the whole package when it comes to Indian cooking. This cosy restaurant is brimming with personality, staff are enthusiastic and brilliant, and the food is second to none. Dive into the generously sized sharing platters, goat curry and cardamom brulee, and don’t miss the fabulous Old Delhi Mojito.
Where: 319-321 King Street, W6 9NH
Book now: Potli

Pravaas, South Kensington

What: This tidy, stylish South Kensington spot mixes things up a little compared to your classic, authentic curry houses, offering something more creative. The foundation of Pravaas’ menu is in Gujarati cooking, but twists like wasabi fried chicken off something unique and delicious among London’s top Indian restaurants.
Where: 3 Glendower Place, SW7 3DU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Pravaas
Book now: Pravaas

Mint Leaf Lounge, City of London

What: Located in the heart of the City, this 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 yoghurt, while main courses span a coconutty prawn curry to braised leg of lamb with kashmiri chilli. It also offers a great-value, three-course set menu which includes a cocktail or mocktail. 
Where: 12 Angel Court, EC2R 7HB
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Mint Leaf Lounge
Book now: Mint Leaf Lounge

Cinnamon Bazaar, Covent Garden and Richmond

What: A younger, more affordable offshoot from Vivek Singh’s excellent Cinnamon Club (also in this list, by the way), Cinnamon Bazaar conjures the vivid sights, smells and flavours of an Indian bazaar, right down to the colourful linen awnings running across the ceiling. The food is relaxed, exciting, delicious, and phenomenal value given the quality.
Where: 28 Maiden Lane, WC2E 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 London, St. James's

What: Farzi has a reputation in India for tableside theatrics and the London outpost also delivers when it comes to aesthetics, with glitzy golden interiors flickering in the candlelight. The menu takes inspiration from far and wide, not just in India but also Bangladesh, Afghanistan and even Nepal. Sizzling kebabs always manage to get the party started, as do Farzi’s theatrical cocktails.
Where: 8 Haymarket, SW1Y 4BP
Book now: Farzi London

Gunpowder, Soho

What: On Greek Street, in the heart of Soho, Gunpowder (which has Tower Bridge and Spitalfields outposts too) may come across as low-key, but the food is explosive. Rich in rustic Indian sharing dishes inspired by family recipes, the menu features the likes of pork ribs with crunchy tamarind kachumber, Goan grilled prawns, and spicy venison and vermicelli doughnut. Decor is simple, but who cares when the food is this good and prices are reasonable?
Where: 11 White's Row, Spitalfields, E1 7NF; 4 Duchess Walk, Tower Bridge, SE1 2SD
Book now: Gunpowder Soho; Gunpowder Spitalfields; Gunpowder Tower Bridge

Darjeeling Express, Soho

What: After a star-making turn on Netflix's Chef's Table series, Asma Khan can count herself among London's mots famous, recognisable chefs. She heads up Darjeeling Express in Carnaby Street, serving up some of the best Indian food London has to offer, and 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 12, using family recipes that go back generations, has 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 toasties, paneer korma, and spiced beetroot croquettes.
Where: Kingly Court, Carnaby Street, W1B 5PW
Book now: The Darjeeling Express

Brigadiers, City of London

What: An Indian barbecue restaurant and sports bar, pitched in mood midway between the cheap thrills of Hoppers and the flashiness of Gymkhana, Brigadiers is particularly well-suited to group dining. With half a dozen menu sections to choose from, including ‘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 that, be sure to try the barbecue butter chicken wings and chilli-cheese naan – two outstanding dishes.
Where: 1-5 Bloomberg Arcade, EC4N 8AR
Book now: Brigadiers

Tayyabs, Whitechapel

What: Legendary among Londoners, this Whitechapel institution has been going strong since the early seventies and, judging by the huge queues out the door each night, shows no signs of slowing down. As popular with families and students as it is with rowdy City parties and mates on the town, Tayyabs remains one of London’s favourite low-budget eateries thanks to its famous lamb chops and BYOB policy. Quick service is guaranteed, which is just what you want when you’ve waited an hour for a table.
Where: 83-89 Fieldgate Street, E1 1JU
Book now: Tayyabs

Rasa, Stoke Newington

What: Once a hidden gem on Stoke Newington Church Street, Londoners far and wide have since heard about the exploits of Keralan chef Das Sreedharan, and his fabulous restaurant in this north east London neighbourhood. Rasa specialises in the meatless cooking of India’s Nair community, so get stuck into fresh paneer, lentil curry, gorgeous parathas and kulfis with zero guilt.
Where: 55 Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 0AR
Book now: Rasa

The Great Indian, Archway

What: Housed in a beautifully restored 1898 pub in Archway, The Great Indian reimagines classic cuisine with innovative twists, making this hidden gem a must-visit in the capital's Indian dining scene. With menus curated by Michelin-starred Surjan Singh, expect 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 Road, N19 4NU
Book now: The Great Indian

Babur, Dulwich

What: Cosy, artful interiors meet some serious high quality cooking at Babur, which 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 south, marrying the two with elegance across a huge a la carte (though there are also excellent set lunch, Sunday buffet and tasting menus if you don’t want the stress of choosing).
Where: 119 Brockley Rise, SE23 1JP
Book now: Babur

The Tamil Prince, Islington

What: The Tamil Prince is the brainchild of ex Roti King executive chef and JKS general manager, so there’s no surprise it’s made it to our list of best Indians in London. Run from an old pub in Islington, there are a variety of small plates and main dishes from Southern India to choose from, specialising 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 masala, but more importantly expect some of the best roti in London.
Where: 115 Hemingford Road, N1 1BZ
Book now: The Tamil Prince

Kricket, Various locations

What: We love this Soho branch of the legendary Brixton pop-up, both for its buzzy atmosphere and incredible eats. The concise menu features a core list of Kricket classics, such as bhel puris and Keralan fried chicken with curry-leaf mayonnaise, plus a few seasonal specials, while the drinks list contains gems such as rum-spiked masala chai. Part of Kricket’s charm is the counter dining set-up, though there are larger tables in the basement for groups.
Where: 12 Denman Street, W1D 7HH; 41-43 Atlantic Road, SW9 3JS; 35-42 Charlotte Road, EC2A 3PB; Unit 6 Frobisher Passage, E14 4EE
Book now: Kricket Soho; Kricket Brixton; Kricket Shoreditch; Kricket Canary Wharf

If you love Indian food and you're planning a private dinner, we'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 selection, from luxurious fine-dining to intimate, family-run restaurants, all with private areas for hire.