What Are the Best Indian Restaurants in London?

Quilon

The south-west region of Kerala is on full display at the elegantly appointed Quilon. Located in the five-star opulence of the Taj St. James’ Court – mere moments from Buckingham Palace – this restaurant is one to be truly savoured.

Exquisite hospitality is one of the hallmarks of the Taj experience, and you instantly feel safe in the hands of an exceptional team.

Head Chef, Sriram Alyur, leans into the light and distinctive flavours from the coastal regions, with those delicate hints of coconut floating throughout many of the dishes.

Start with a glass of fizz, before indulging in a selection of starters from Green peppercorn prawns, Vermicelli crab cakes and delicately spiced Goan Lamb Chops.

Mix and match a few of the exquisite mains including the superb Prawn Masala with is deeply flavourful, containing mustard, curry leaves and coconut. I can also recommend the Baked Black cod, and the Lamb Biryani with is cooked with the traditional Malabar spices in a sealed pot. There’s something so wonderfully celebratory about a Biryani and this is an exceptional dish.

Save a little room for the Kumquat, milk chocolate ginger mousse which is also perfect for sharing.

Gymkhana

Two Michelin starred Gymkhana has been wowing critics, foodies and celebrities alike since first opening in 2013. I first recalled the opening hitting the headlines when Nigella Lawson was seen dining here and subsequently singing the restaurant’s praises. It quickly became the must-have reservation in town. I was immediately convinced, too.

Inspired by the elite clubs of India, Gymkhana has cultivated that rarified air of a private member’s club, replete with luxurious leather banquettes, vintage lighting, and sumptuous fabrics…it’s quiet luxury, but luxury, nonetheless.

The menu takes inspiration from the North of India, with a menu of decadently rich and hearty dishes. I especially enjoy their tandoori dishes which are truly standout.

The Venison Keema Naan is always a satisfying starting point, along with the Kid Goat Methi Keema. Following up with the Kasoori Chicken Tikka and the perfectly charred Wild Tiger Prawns with a piquant red pepper chutney.

The Tandoori Masala Lamb chops are another must-have, served with a nutty walnut chutney, and not forgetting the Chicken Butter Masala redolent with spices and the silkiness you come to expect from this classic dish.

Save a little room for the Halwa Tart and pair with the Ghee Old Fashioned. I do love the dessert and cocktail pairings, which feels like the fitting way to end a meal at Gymkhana.

Oorja

In the heart of London’s Shaftesbury Avenue, you’ll find one of the best new Indian restaurants taking you from early lunchtime right through to late-night dinner.

Oorja is inspired by the vibrant streets of Delhi, with plenty of options from light snacks through to classic curries and biryanis. It’s quickly become one of my go-to spots for a speedy, delicious lunch. The ‘tiffin’ option is £21 and includes a starter, option from the grill, as well as a main dish.

What sets Oorja apart for me, however, is their take on the classic Sunday Roast which harmoniously brings together the classic British lunchtime tradition with the bold and vibrant flavours of India.

They have a great selection of meat options as well as a vegetarian alternative. My preferred choice is the Tandoori Butterfly Spatchcock which is marinated in their signature BBQ Mathania chilli and yoghurt and then fire-grilled until charred and served with a creamy Butter chicken sauce.

If you’re after something veggie, the Achari Paneer marinated in yellow chilli and pickle spice and served with Makai saag is utterly delicious – paneer is a personal favourite so I generally always order if I see it on the menu, especially when it’s freshly made.

The side dishes make the meal, and in amongst the ‘goodies’ you’ll find a tangy Baingan pickle masala, onion kulcha, fresh salads, papadums, carrot pickles and the heavenly gunpowder roasted potatoes.

If you visit once, I guarantee this will become your new Sunday ritual.

Tamarind

World-class Indian cuisine and superlative service are the hallmarks of this renowned Indian restaurant. Nestled in the exclusive enclave of Mayfair, Tamarind is one of city’s most luxurious dining destinations. It’s also the first Indian restaurant in London to receive a coveted Michelin star back in 2001.

It’s one of the most beautiful restaurants on this list with a modern, elegant décor of pale blues and pinks, bringing a vibrant feminine energy to the space. Photos for the ‘gram are a must here.

The menus are all beautifully designed, all with the option of having either a small or regular dish, so sharing plates here is a must. To get started, begin with a mix of Coastal crab cakes served with a chilli chutney, Churi Chat, and the Griddled Scottish scallops and spiced red lentils.

The grills are sensational and work beautifully alongside the curry and biryani options. I always order the Tandoori Konkan Prawns and the Chargrilled Lamb Chops which is encrusted with crunchy pistachios. And there’s nothing more comforting than the Chicken Kundan Kaliya which is slow cooked in cardamom, yoghurt, cashew and saffron.

If you can, request a table in the beautiful terrace which is open all day – it’s one of the best spots in London for an early evening cocktail and some delicious small plates.

I recommend the Tamarind Cup cocktail made with tequila, blood orange, tamarind and tandoor-roasted pineapple.

Pahli Hill Bhandra Bhai

One of Fitzrovia’s top spots for regional Indian cuisine, with a menu of consistently evolving dishes. What I love about Pahli Hill is that you can always find something new on the menu as they aim to add a new dish every month.

My current favourite – as well as being a new addition to the menu – is the Benne Dosa Tacos which can be filled with either chilli cheese or a spicy pulled lamb filling. I suggest ordering one of each as they’re a standout of the menu. These divinely crispy tacos are served with a tangy tomato chutney.

The Homestyle Chicken Curry is always a warming winner and made with a sauce of yoghurt, coriander, star anise and fennel. Order with some of the delicious flaky flatbread, which is a buttery, chewy delight, and perfect to soak up the richly aromatic sauce. I also love the marinated Lamb Chops which are some of the best I’ve ever tasted.

The drinks are a true standout of the experience, and when I tell you the Kingpin Lassi is a new classic – believe me. This divinely fruity cocktail is made with Mango Vodka, clarified yoghurt and lime juice. I have never been a huge fan of Lassi so I assumed this was a milky drink – however, you’ll find it’s as clear as a Martini and yet beautifully silky in flavour and texture. Destined to be a classic.

Downstairs you’ll find a low-lit, sexy, speakeasy style bar called Bhandra Bhai which is the natural place to relax after dinner…it feels highly secretive which is one of the big draws. You’ll no doubt find me there with a Kingpin Lassi!

Bombay Brasserie

The stylish Bombay Brasserie is one of the Taj’s Hotels signature restaurants, located a short walk away from the hotel in St. James’s Court, Buckingham Gate. It’s also one of London’s most legendary Indian restaurants and has been bringing the bold flavors of Bombay to the exclusive enclave of Kensington since 1982.

The lounge area – where you can enjoy one of their delicious cocktails – is a bit of a hidden secret, so it’s the place for that first pre-prandial. I would suggest cocktails here even if you don’t have plans for food.

Now, while I adore dinner at this restaurant – which is one of the finest spaces to enjoy the best in Bombay cuisine – for me, their buffet-style Weekend Brunch is the most indulgent – or dare I say ‘greedy’ – way in which to delight in dishes Bombay Brasserie have become known for.

The brunch is always presented in their stunning light-filed conservatory, with an overwhelmingly impressive selection of starters, salads and a dedicated Chaat counter. The curries and biryanis always cause a stir with those bold, buffet-sized portions. I would suggest working through the food in stages, starting with the smaller plates and salads before moving onto the richer dishes.

Some of my favorite dishes and familiar favorites include the Kasorri Murgh Tikka and Herb Crusted prawns with a side of Dahi Bhalla Sev, served with pickles and mini papad and chutneys.

I love to mix the main dishes which creates such an incredible flavour combination, such as the Goan Bhindi Curry with Okra and coriander, Shahi panner in a rich cardamom cream, with a serving on the tempered dal with cumin, chilli and ginger.

If you manage to get through the plentiful savory options, a stunning dessert and coffee bar await with offerings such as Mango Fig Kulfi, Honey Jamun and Mango Shrikhand Chocolate Cups.

The Weekend Buffet Brunch is priced at £56 per person (£28 per person for ages 4 to 10).

Dishoom

The ever-reliable Dishoom has become the byword for the ultimate in fast-casual, Indian cuisine. This all-day restaurant chain pays homage to the Irani café-culture of Bombay, with an extensive menu of street food snacks, curries, and warming biriyanis.

If you haven’t yet tried their breakfast, the Bacon naan roll has reached almost legendary status in London foodie circles with this chewy, salty delight being the most coveted. A freshly made naan with herbs, chilli, cream cheese and crispy bacon, paired with a warming masala chai is a hard match to beat.

The menu is a tried and tested formula and if you’re a regular at Dishoom will no doubt have your favourites. You’ll always find Okra fries and an oozy Chilli Cheese Toast at my table, followed by pillow-soft Makhmali Paneer and their classic Chicken Ruby curry.

It’s consistently great quality, and with a please-all menu of beloved, signature dishes there’s nothing not to like.

Jamavar

The upscale Jamavar is one of London’s most luxurious dining experiences, replete with palatial surroundings – and a Mayfair postcode to match – this restaurant is tailor made for those special occasions.

The menu is rooted India’s rich cultural heritage, with a specific focused on beautifully constructed, elevated cuisine.

One of the best ways of experiencing Jamavar is through a shorter tasting menu – by choosing either the 3 or 4 courses you get to try some of the best plates on the menu, including some of their Signature dishes.

Begin with the succulent Malabar Prawns, sauteed with white turmeric, onion and curry leaves, before moving onto the homemade Kasundi Paneer Tikka served with a fresh papaya salad and mint chutney. The main dish of Old Delhi Butter Chicken is a classic for a reason – perfectly char-grilled and then simmered in a rich sauce of tomato and fenugreek.

Three courses are priced at £51/Four courses are priced at £57.

If you’re lucky enough to visit on a good weather day, I would request one of the tables on the elegant outside terrace. It’s the perfect place for a spot of people watching, too.

Darjeeling Express

The legendary restaurateur and chef, Asma Khan, is a familiar and respected name throughout the culinary world. It was her appearance on Netflix’s Chef’s Table that made her an international name. TIME Magazine included Asma in the World’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024.

Many dedicated ‘foodies’ would already be familiar with the brilliant Asma through her restaurant, Darjeeling Express. Asma has long championed the talented matriarchs of home cooking, and the kitchen is entirely run by a team of women.

The food is infused with bold flavours, authenticity and you truly sense the love and dedication that has gone into each dish.

I’ve been a fan of the Chicken Butter Masala toastie from the beginning, and thankfully it’s always been on the menu – moreish and utterly addictive. Saag Pakora with the tamarind and sesame chutney, as well as the Pan-fried Momos with smoked chilli chutney are a lovely addition.

The main dishes – all served with pulao – offer a great choice of meat, vegetarian and vegan options. The Methi Chicken is a deeply flavourful dish in an aromatic tomato sauce, which pairs wonderfully with the Saag Paneer, spinach and caramelized onion.

If you can manage to get a ticket for the Biryani superclubs it’s well worth it. Keep an eye on the website for these highly coveted events.