If you are searching for the best Indian restaurant in London, you are genuinely spoilt for choice. The city is home to everything from Michelin-starred fine dining rooms and elegant tasting menus to cosy curry houses, South Indian cafés and lively modern grills.
Whether you want a romantic meal, a memorable family dinner or simply the best butter chicken and biryani in town, London has an Indian restaurant to match the occasion. Some restaurants focus on traditional regional dishes, while others reinvent Indian cooking with a contemporary twist.
That can make choosing where to book feel surprisingly difficult. To make things easier, this guide brings together ten of the best Indian restaurants in London, including famous favourites and hidden gems, so you can find the perfect place for an unforgettable meal.
Are You Looking for the Best Indian Restaurant in London?
Finding the best Indian restaurant in London can feel difficult because the city offers such a wide variety of dining experiences.
Some restaurants focus on elegant fine dining with tasting menus, carefully selected wines and beautifully presented dishes, while others are more casual and suited to quick lunches, family meals or relaxed dinners with friends.
You may be looking for a traditional curry house, a modern Indian restaurant, or somewhere that specialises in a particular region of India.
London’s Indian food scene is broad enough to suit every taste and occasion. You can find everything from rich North Indian curries and fragrant biryanis to South Indian dosas, vegetarian dishes and contemporary small plates.
There are also restaurants designed for romantic evenings, group celebrations and affordable everyday dining. With so many different styles available across the city, the best choice depends on the atmosphere, cuisine and experience you are hoping to enjoy.
Why Is London Famous for Its Indian Restaurants?
London is famous for its Indian restaurants because it has one of the largest and most varied Indian food scenes outside India. Over many years, people from different parts of India brought their own traditions, recipes and cooking styles to the city.
This has created a dining scene where you can experience food from many regions rather than just one type of Indian cuisine.
Today, London is known for offering:
- Traditional restaurants serving classic Indian recipes
- Fine dining restaurants with modern tasting menus
- Casual cafés and family-friendly curry houses
- Regional cooking from different parts of India
- Vegetarian, vegan and seafood-focused menus
- Contemporary restaurants that combine Indian and British influences
Another reason London is so well known for Indian food is the balance between tradition and innovation. Some restaurants preserve recipes that have been passed down for generations, while others experiment with new techniques and modern presentation.
This combination allows you to enjoy both authentic Indian cooking and fresh new ideas, making London one of the best places in the UK to explore Indian cuisine.
Which Indian Restaurant in London Is Best for Fine Dining?
If you are looking for the best Indian restaurant in London, the right choice depends on the type of experience you want. Some restaurants are perfect for fine dining and special occasions, while others are ideal for casual meals, family dinners or affordable comfort food.
1. Quilon
Quilon is one of the best Michelin-star Indian restaurants in London if you are looking for an elegant and memorable dining experience. Situated close to Westminster, the restaurant specialises in coastal South-West Indian cuisine and has earned an excellent reputation for its beautifully prepared seafood dishes.
The atmosphere is calm, refined and ideal for special occasions, making it a popular choice for anniversaries, birthdays and romantic evenings in central London.
The menu at Quilon focuses heavily on seafood, with dishes inspired by the flavours of Kerala and the south-west coast of India. You can expect carefully prepared lobster, scallops, prawns and fresh fish served with delicate spices, coconut and aromatic herbs.
The restaurant’s fish curries are especially popular because they manage to feel rich and comforting without being too heavy. Many visitors also choose the tasting menu, which allows you to experience several signature dishes in one meal and gives a better sense of the restaurant’s style.
What makes Quilon stand out is the way it balances luxury with authenticity. The presentation is sophisticated and modern, but the flavours remain rooted in traditional Indian cooking. If you want a fine dining restaurant that feels elegant without being intimidating, Quilon is one of the strongest choices in London.
2. BiBi
BiBi offers a completely different interpretation of Indian fine dining and is ideal if you want something modern, creative and stylish.
Located in Mayfair, the restaurant has become one of the most talked-about Indian restaurants in London because it moves away from the traditional format of curries and large mains.
Instead, it focuses on smaller dishes and tasting menus that are designed to showcase Indian flavours in a fresh and contemporary way.
The experience at BiBi feels more like a chef-led tasting menu than a typical Indian restaurant meal. The dishes are carefully arranged, beautifully presented and often use seasonal British ingredients alongside Indian spices and cooking techniques.
Rather than ordering one large main course, you are encouraged to try several different plates, each with its own combination of textures and flavours. This makes the meal feel exciting and surprising from beginning to end.
The dining room itself is intimate and elegant, which adds to the sense that you are enjoying something special. BiBi is particularly popular with people who enjoy modern restaurants and are happy to try unusual ingredients or flavour combinations.
While it may not be the right choice if you are craving a traditional curry, it is perfect if you want an inventive Indian meal in a stylish London setting.
3. Veeraswamy
Veeraswamy is one of the most famous Indian restaurants in London and has been welcoming diners for nearly a century. Located on Regent Street, it is known not only for its food but also for its long history and grand surroundings.
The restaurant has a luxurious atmosphere that immediately feels special, making it an excellent choice if you want a traditional Indian meal in an elegant setting.
The menu at Veeraswamy is inspired by royal Indian cooking and includes many classic North Indian dishes. Rich curries, tandoori meats and fragrant biryanis all feature heavily, with recipes that feel both traditional and indulgent.
The flavours are bold and comforting, but the presentation is polished enough to suit the restaurant’s refined atmosphere. Many visitors come specifically to try the house biryani or one of the signature meat dishes, which are often served with beautiful attention to detail.
One of the reasons Veeraswamy remains so popular is because it offers more than just a meal. The décor, the history and the service all create a sense of occasion.
It is particularly popular with visitors to central London, couples celebrating an anniversary and anyone who wants to experience one of the city’s most iconic Indian restaurants.
4. Chourangi
Chourangi is one of the most distinctive Indian restaurants in London because it focuses on Bengali and Kolkata-inspired cooking.
While many Indian restaurants in the city concentrate on familiar North Indian curries, Chourangi offers something different by bringing the flavours of eastern India to the capital.
The restaurant has a stylish but relaxed atmosphere, which makes it equally suitable for a date night or a dinner with friends.
The menu is inspired by the food of Kolkata and includes both traditional Bengali dishes and popular street food. You can expect rich fish dishes, flavourful meat curries and snacks that are difficult to find elsewhere in London.
The restaurant is particularly known for its Kolkata-style street food, which often includes spicy, tangy and deeply savoury flavours. This makes the menu feel exciting and slightly unusual, especially if you have already tried many other Indian restaurants in London.
What makes Chourangi especially appealing is that it feels authentic without being intimidating. The food introduces you to a different side of Indian cuisine, but the setting remains welcoming and easy to enjoy.
If you want to explore regional Indian cooking and try something beyond the usual curry house favourites, Chourangi is one of the best places to visit.
5. Brigadiers
Brigadiers is one of the best Indian restaurants in London if you enjoy lively dining, grilled food and a social atmosphere.
Located in the City, it is inspired by the traditional army mess bars of India and has become especially popular with groups, work colleagues and friends meeting for dinner. The restaurant is energetic and busy, with music, cocktails and a menu designed for sharing.
The food at Brigadiers focuses heavily on Indian barbecue and grilled dishes. You can expect smoky kebabs, grilled meats and rich sauces that are packed with flavour.
Some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes include butter chicken wings, lamb chops and house kebabs, all cooked over an open flame. The portions are designed to be shared, which makes the meal feel more relaxed and sociable than a traditional three-course dinner.
The atmosphere is one of the main reasons people choose Brigadiers. It feels exciting and informal without sacrificing quality, making it perfect for birthdays, celebrations and weekend nights out.
Although it is not the quietest restaurant on this list, it is one of the most enjoyable if you want somewhere lively with excellent food and plenty of energy.
6. Dishoom
Dishoom remains one of the most popular Indian restaurants in London because it offers a combination of great food, warm service and a memorable atmosphere.
Inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, the restaurant feels welcoming from the moment you walk in.
It has several locations across London, but Dishoom Carnaby is particularly well known and often appears on lists of the best Indian restaurants in the city.
The menu at Dishoom is broad enough to suit almost any time of day. Many people visit in the morning for the famous bacon naan roll and a cup of house chai, while others come later for black daal, ruby chicken and rich curries.
The food is comforting, flavourful and designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes. This makes Dishoom a useful choice whether you are dining with friends, family or visitors who may be unfamiliar with Indian cuisine.
Part of Dishoom’s appeal is that it feels stylish without being too formal. The interiors are full of character and the atmosphere is lively but relaxed.
It may not offer the same level of luxury as Michelin-starred restaurants, but it consistently delivers excellent food and a reliable experience. If you want an Indian restaurant in London that works for almost any occasion, Dishoom is a very safe choice.
7. Saravanaa Bhavan
Saravanaa Bhavan is one of the best South Indian restaurants in London and is especially popular with vegetarian diners.
Located in East Ham, it has built a loyal following because it serves authentic South Indian food at affordable prices. The restaurant is simple and family-friendly, focusing much more on flavour than on luxury or decoration.
The menu includes many classic South Indian dishes such as dosas, idlis, vadas and sambar. The dosas are especially popular because they are crisp, fresh and served in generous portions.
Unlike many Indian restaurants in London, Saravanaa Bhavan is entirely vegetarian, which makes it a particularly useful choice if you want a meat-free meal without sacrificing variety or flavour. The food is comforting, authentic and ideal for sharing.
One of the biggest advantages of Saravanaa Bhavan is its value for money. While many of the city’s famous Indian restaurants can be expensive, this restaurant allows you to enjoy excellent food without spending a large amount.
It is especially good for families, casual lunches and anyone who wants to explore South Indian cooking in a relaxed setting.
8. The Tamil Prince
The Tamil Prince is one of the most interesting new Indian restaurants in London because it combines two very different ideas.
On one hand, it feels like a traditional British pub, with a friendly atmosphere and a casual setting. On the other, it serves food inspired by Tamil and South Indian cooking, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and completely different.
The menu is built around sharing plates, curries and dishes that work well in a relaxed pub environment. You can expect strong South Indian flavours, rich spices and plenty of comfort food. Unlike more formal Indian restaurants,
The Tamil Prince encourages you to order several dishes and enjoy them casually with friends. This makes it particularly popular with younger diners and people looking for something less traditional.
What makes The Tamil Prince stand out is the way it brings Indian food into a setting that feels unmistakably British.
The combination works surprisingly well and gives the restaurant a unique identity. If you want a place that is informal, modern and slightly unusual, The Tamil Prince is one of the best Indian restaurants in London to try.
9. Trishna
Trishna is another Michelin-starred Indian restaurant in London and is widely regarded as one of the best places in the city for seafood.
Located in Marylebone, the restaurant specialises in coastal Indian cooking and has developed a reputation for elegant dishes and exceptional service. The atmosphere is refined and comfortable, making it especially popular for date nights and celebrations.
The menu at Trishna is centred around seafood and shellfish, with dishes inspired by the western coast of India. You can expect delicately spiced crab, prawns, fish and lobster, all presented in a way that feels sophisticated but not overly formal.
The flavours are lighter and more subtle than those found in many traditional Indian restaurants, which helps the quality of the seafood stand out.
Many visitors choose Trishna for its tasting menu, which offers a carefully planned journey through several of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
This makes it easier to appreciate the range of flavours and styles that the restaurant offers. If you enjoy seafood and want an Indian restaurant in London that feels elegant, romantic and memorable, Trishna is one of the very best options.
10. The Glad
The Gladstone Arms, usually known simply as The Glad, offers a more relaxed and informal alternative to many of the other Indian restaurants in London.
Rather than focusing on fine dining or elaborate tasting menus, it combines the atmosphere of a local pub with comforting Indian-inspired food. This has helped it build a loyal following among people who want something casual and friendly.
The menu is built around familiar pub-style dishes with Indian flavours and influences. The food is simple, satisfying and designed to be enjoyed in a laid-back environment.
While it may not have the same reputation as places such as Dishoom or Veeraswamy, The Glad has become popular because it feels genuine and welcoming.
It is the sort of place where you can relax, enjoy a drink and have a good meal without feeling that you need to dress up.
The Glad is particularly appealing if you are looking for a hidden gem rather than one of London’s better-known restaurants.
It offers a different kind of experience, one that feels local, comfortable and easy to enjoy. If you prefer a neighbourhood atmosphere and less formal dining, The Glad is well worth considering.
How Do These Best Indian Restaurants in London Compare?
Although every restaurant on this list serves excellent Indian food, they all offer a very different experience. Quilon and Trishna are the strongest options if you are planning a special occasion and want Michelin-starred dining with exceptional seafood.
BiBi is ideal if you enjoy modern tasting menus and creative presentation, while Veeraswamy is perfect if you want a traditional Indian restaurant with history and elegance.
For something more casual, Dishoom remains one of the easiest and most reliable choices because it works equally well for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Brigadiers is better suited to lively evenings with friends, especially if you enjoy grilled meats and sharing plates. Chourangi stands out if you want to try Bengali and Kolkata-inspired food, while Saravanaa Bhavan is the best choice for authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes.
If you are looking for something slightly different, The Tamil Prince combines Indian flavours with the atmosphere of a London pub, while The Glad offers a more relaxed and lesser-known dining experience.
Choosing the best Indian restaurant in London depends on the occasion, the style of food you enjoy and the atmosphere you want.
| Restaurant | Best For | Area | Signature Dish |
| Quilon | Michelin-star fine dining and seafood lovers | Westminster | Coastal seafood curry |
| BiBi | Contemporary tasting menus and modern Indian cuisine | Mayfair | Chef’s small plate tasting menu |
| Veeraswamy | Historic dining and special occasions | Regent Street | Royal-style biryani |
| Chourangi | Bengali food and Kolkata-inspired dishes | Marylebone | Kolkata-style kati roll |
| Brigadiers | Group dinners, grills and sharing plates | City of London | Butter chicken wings |
| Dishoom | Casual meals, breakfast and family-friendly dining | Carnaby and multiple London locations | Black daal |
| Saravanaa Bhavan | South Indian vegetarian food | East Ham | Masala dosa |
| The Tamil Prince | Relaxed pub dining with Tamil flavours | Islington | Tamil-style curry |
| Trishna | Romantic dinners and coastal Indian seafood | Marylebone | Signature seafood tasting menu |
| The Glad | Hidden gem dining and laid-back pub atmosphere | Southwark | Indian-inspired pub dishes |
The best Indian restaurant in London ultimately depends on what kind of dining experience you want, whether that is Michelin-starred seafood, a lively grill house or comforting South Indian food.
By comparing the atmosphere, location and signature dishes of each restaurant, you can choose the one that feels perfect for your next meal out.
How to Choose the Best Indian Restaurant in London for Your Occasion?
The easiest way to choose the best Indian restaurant in London is to think about the kind of meal you want. Some restaurants are better for formal evenings, while others work best for casual visits.
If you are planning a special occasion, you may prefer:
- Quilon for Michelin-starred seafood
- Trishna for a romantic dinner
- Veeraswamy for a luxurious and historic atmosphere
For something more relaxed, these restaurants are often better:
- Dishoom for breakfast, lunch or a casual dinner
- Brigadiers for groups and sharing plates
- The Tamil Prince for a laid-back pub atmosphere
If budget matters, you do not need to spend a fortune to enjoy excellent Indian food in London. Saravanaa Bhavan and The Glad offer much more affordable menus while still delivering plenty of flavour.
It is also worth thinking about what type of Indian cuisine you enjoy most. If you love South Indian food, choose Saravanaa Bhavan or The Tamil Prince.
If you prefer North Indian classics, Veeraswamy and Dishoom may be a better fit. By choosing based on the occasion, your budget and the style of food you enjoy, it becomes much easier to find the right restaurant.
Conclusion
The best Indian restaurant in London is not the same for everyone. Some people want Michelin-starred fine dining, while others are searching for the perfect dosa, curry or sharing plate.
Fortunately, London offers every type of Indian dining experience, from elegant restaurants such as Quilon and Trishna to lively favourites such as Dishoom and Brigadiers.
If you want something more traditional, Veeraswamy and Chourangi are excellent choices, while Saravanaa Bhavan and The Tamil Prince are ideal if you enjoy South Indian flavours. The Glad is also worth considering if you want something more relaxed and less obvious.
By thinking about the atmosphere, cuisine and occasion, you can choose the best Indian restaurant in London and enjoy a meal that feels truly unforgettable.
FAQs
Which is the oldest Indian restaurant in London?
Veeraswamy is widely regarded as the oldest Indian restaurant in London, having first opened in 1926. It remains one of the city’s most famous places for traditional Indian fine dining.
Which Indian restaurant in London has a Michelin star?
Quilon and Trishna are two of the best-known Michelin-starred Indian restaurants in London. Both are especially popular for elegant seafood dishes and special occasions.
Where can you find the best South Indian food in London?
Saravanaa Bhavan is one of the best places in London for authentic South Indian vegetarian food. If you want a more modern take on South Indian flavours, The Tamil Prince is also an excellent choice.
Is Dishoom worth visiting in London?
Yes, Dishoom Carnaby is worth visiting because it offers a lively atmosphere and consistently good food. It is especially famous for its bacon naan roll, black daal and house chai.
Which Indian restaurant in London is best for vegetarians?
Saravanaa Bhavan is one of the best vegetarian Indian restaurants in London because its entire menu is meat-free. The restaurant is particularly well known for its dosas, idlis and sambar.
What is the best Indian restaurant in London for a special occasion?
For a special occasion, many people choose Quilon, Trishna or Veeraswamy. These restaurants offer elegant surroundings, excellent service and memorable food.
Are there affordable Indian restaurants in central London?
Yes, Dishoom Carnaby offers reasonably priced meals in central London compared with many fine dining restaurants. You can also find good value at Saravanaa Bhavan if you do not mind travelling slightly further from the city centre.
