Taste the Best Indian Restaurants in London: A Desi Food Guide

Discover London’s top Indian restaurants in 2025! From Michelin-starred elegance to vibrant street food, explore the best Indian cuisine London has to offer. Join us on a flavorful journey through London desi food as we highlight the best Indian restaurants in London. This London travel guide is your key to experiencing the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Are you craving authentic Indian flavors in the heart of the UK? Look no further! London boasts some of the best Indian restaurants in the world, offering a tantalizing array of cuisines from across the Indian subcontinent. This guide will take you on a mouthwatering journey through the best Indian restaurants London has to offer, ensuring your taste buds embark on an unforgettable desi food adventure.

Why London is a Haven for Indian Food Lovers

Before we dive into our culinary tour, let’s look at some impressive statistics that highlight London’s love affair with Indian cuisine:

• According to a 2024 survey by Visit London, Indian cuisine ranks as the second most popular ethnic food in the city, with over 70% of Londoners eating Indian food at least once a month.
• The UK’s Indian restaurant industry contributes an estimated £4.2 billion to the economy annually, with London accounting for nearly 40% of this figure.
• As of 2025, London boasts 17 Michelin-starred Indian restaurants, more than any other city outside India.

These numbers underscore why exploring the Indian food scene is a must-do on any London travel itinerary.

Top Indian Restaurants in London: A Gastronomic Journey

1. Gymkhana (Mayfair)

• Cuisine: Pan-Indian
• Michelin Stars: 2
• Signature Dish: Kid Goat Methi Keema

Gymkhana offers a sophisticated dining experience inspired by colonial Indian gymkhana clubs. The restaurant’s opulent decor and innovative menu make it a standout among the best Indian restaurants in London.

2. Dishoom (Multiple Locations)

• Cuisine: Bombay-style
• Signature Dish: Bacon Naan Roll
• Must-Try: House Black Daal

With its vintage Bombay café ambiance, Dishoom has become a London institution. Don’t miss their legendary breakfast menu!

3. Trishna (Marylebone)

• Cuisine: Coastal Indian
• Michelin Stars: 1
• Signature Dish: Seafood Biryani

Specializing in seafood and coastal cuisine, Trishna offers a refreshing take on Indian flavors in a chic, contemporary setting.

4. Brigadiers (City of London)

• Cuisine: Indian Barbecue
• Signature Dish: Wood Roast Tandoori Lamb Chops
• Unique Feature: Sports Bar with Pool Tables

Brigadiers combines fantastic Indian barbecue with a lively atmosphere, perfect for group dining and sports enthusiasts.

5. Hoppers (Soho and Marylebone)

• Cuisine: Sri Lankan and South Indian
• Signature Dish: Egg Hopper with Kari
• Must-Try: Bone Marrow Varuval

Named after the bowl-shaped fermented rice pancakes, Hoppers brings the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka and South India to London.

Comparison of Top Indian Restaurants in London

Restaurant	Cuisine	Price Range	Ambiance	Best For
Gymkhana	Pan-Indian	££££	Elegant	Special Occasions
Dishoom	Bombay-style	££	Casual-Chic	Casual Dining, Groups
Trishna	Coastal Indian	£££	Contemporary	Seafood Lovers
Brigadiers	Indian Barbecue	£££	Lively	Sports Fans, Group Dining
Hoppers	Sri Lankan/South Indian	££	Vibrant	Adventurous Eaters

Beyond the Plate: Enhancing Your Indian Dining Experience

To truly immerse yourself in London’s Indian food scene:

1. Attend a cooking class at Darjeeling Express
2. Visit Southall, London’s “Little India,” for authentic street food
3. Explore the spice shops in Brick Lane
4. Join a guided food tour of East London’s curry houses

These experiences will deepen your appreciation for Indian cuisine and culture, making your London Travel Guide even more flavorful.

Tips for Dining at Indian Restaurants in London

• Book in advance for popular restaurants like Gymkhana and Dishoom
• Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations – staff are usually happy to help
• Try regional specialties beyond the usual tikka masala and vindaloo
• Pair your meal with a lassi or an Indian-inspired cocktail for the full experience

FAQs: Navigating London’s Indian Restaurant Scene

1. Which area of London has the best Indian restaurants?
   A: While great Indian restaurants can be found throughout London, areas like Mayfair, Marylebone, and Shoreditch are particularly known for their high-quality Indian eateries.
2. Are there any budget-friendly Indian restaurants in London?
   A: Yes! Check out places like Dishoom, Hoppers, or the numerous curry houses in East London for delicious Indian food at more affordable prices.
3. What’s the dress code for upscale Indian restaurants in London?
   A: For Michelin-starred restaurants like Gymkhana, smart casual attire is recommended. However, most Indian restaurants in London have a relaxed dress code.
4. Can I find good vegetarian options at London’s Indian restaurants?
   A: Absolutely! Indian cuisine is renowned for its vegetarian dishes. Most restaurants offer extensive vegetarian and often vegan options.
5. How spicy is the food at London’s Indian restaurants?
   A: Spice levels can vary greatly. Don’t hesitate to ask your server about the spiciness of dishes and request adjustments if needed.

As you plan your culinary adventure through London’s vibrant Indian food scene, remember that exploring the best Indian restaurants London has to offer is not just about the food, it’s about experiencing the rich tapestry of flavors, cultures, and traditions that make Indian cuisine so beloved worldwide.

Ready to embark on your desi food journey? Dive deeper into our comprehensive London Travel resources and make 2025 the year you discover the incredible diversity of Indian cuisine in the heart of the UK’s capital!