London is home to some of the finest Indian restaurants outside the subcontinent, offering everything from refined tasting menus to homely comfort food. Whether you’re looking for Michelin-starred dining, vibrant street-food flavours, or family-run gems with decades of history, the city has something to suit every craving. These restaurants highlight the diversity and richness of Indian cuisine in the capital.
This article is for general information and dining inspiration. Restaurant availability, menus, and standards may vary by location and over time, so it’s always best to check current details before visiting.
1. Gymkhana (Mayfair)
Inspired by elite Indian sports clubs, Gymkhana serves up colonial-era cuisine with modern flair. The tandoori dishes here are legendary, especially the wild muntjac biryani that arrives sealed under a pastry lid.
Despite earning a Michelin star, the atmosphere remains refreshingly unstuffy.
2. Ambassadors Clubhouse (Mayfair)
Ambassadors Clubhouse brings an upscale twist to traditional Indian dining in the heart of Mayfair. The menu highlights refined takes on familiar classics alongside inventive new dishes, all served in a setting that feels both stylish and welcoming.
Rich décor and attentive service create a sense of indulgence that makes it stand out among London’s newer Indian restaurants.
3. Quilon (Westminster)
Chef Sriram Aylur has been championing the coastal flavours of southwest India since 1999. Seafood shines here – the Mangalorean chicken and the fish curry with raw mango are standout dishes that regulars return for time and again.
Earning a Michelin star for its refined approach to regional cooking, Quilon balances tradition with innovation beautifully.
4. Tamarind (Mayfair)
As the first Indian restaurant in the UK to earn a Michelin star, Tamarind set the bar high for upscale Indian dining. The kitchen specializes in authentic Moghul cuisine, with tandoor-cooked meats that practically melt in your mouth.
A recent renovation has given the space a contemporary feel while maintaining its old-world charm and impeccable service.
5. Chutney Mary (St James's)
A pioneer of Indian fine dining since 1990, Chutney Mary relocated to St James's in 2015 and remains a showstopper. Their pao bhaji and Keralan seafood biryani demonstrate why this place has stayed relevant for decades.
The gin trolley is a theatrical touch that adds to the sophisticated experience. Look out for the stunning hand-carved screens dividing the elegant dining areas.
6. Darjeeling Express (Soho)
Chef Asma Khan's all-female kitchen serves home-style dishes based on family recipes from Kolkata. The Royal Bengali lamb is slow-cooked to perfection, while the puchkas (crisp shells filled with spiced water) transport you straight to the streets of Calcutta.
Featured on Netflix's Chef's Table, this restaurant champions the often-overlooked women of Indian home cooking.
7. Bibi (Mayfair)
Chef Chet Sharma brings academic precision to his modern Indian small plates at this buzzy newcomer. The nashpati bhel – a pear-based take on traditional street food – exemplifies his innovative approach to classic flavours.
Bibi's counter seating lets you watch chefs work their magic up close. The restaurant's name means "lady of the house" – a tribute to Sharma's grandmothers.
8. Pali Hill (Fitzrovia)
Named after a Mumbai neighbourhood, Pali Hill showcases the breadth of India’s regional home-style cooking. The menu is designed for sharing, with vibrant small plates and seasonal dishes that reflect the country’s culinary diversity.
Downstairs, the cocktail bar Bandra Bhai offers a retro-inspired setting that adds to the restaurant’s character and charm.
9. The Great Indian (Archway)
This neighbourhood favourite offers a welcoming, down-to-earth approach to Indian dining. The menu highlights a variety of traditional dishes served in generous portions, all at affordable prices.
Family-run and unpretentious, it’s the kind of spot locals appreciate for both the food and the hospitality.
10. Veeraswamy (Regent Street)
London's oldest Indian restaurant (established 1926) continues to impress nearly a century later. The royal thalis offer a grand tour of regional specialties, while the window tables provide lovely views over Regent Street.
Veeraswamy's decor reflects 1920s maharaja-style opulence, with intricate wooden screens and colorful silk lampshades creating a truly special atmosphere.
