Best Indian Food in London

London's Indian food scene is one of the best in the world outside the subcontinent — partly due to the size and diversity of South Asian communities across the city, and partly because competition and standards have risen dramatically over the past two decades.

Regions to Know

Indian food in London covers the full regional spectrum. Brick Lane is the most famous area — primarily Bangladeshi-style curry houses, good for a classic experience even if not cutting-edge. Tooting in South London has a strong South Indian and Sri Lankan restaurant scene, with excellent dosa spots and vegetarian thali places. Southall in West London is the largest Punjabi community outside South Asia and is particularly strong for street food, sweets and Punjabi home-style cooking. Drummond Street near Euston has a cluster of good, inexpensive South Indian vegetarian restaurants that are easy to miss but worth knowing about.

What to Eat

A South Indian thali (a tray of multiple small dishes) at the right place is one of London's great food experiences. Dosas (thin rice and lentil crêpes, served with chutneys and sambar) are widely available and a benchmark of a good South Indian kitchen. Biryani, particularly Hyderabadi style, varies wildly by restaurant and is worth seeking a specific recommendation for.

Tips

• Go to Tooting or Southall rather than Brick Lane for a more authentic and often better-value experience.
• Drummond Street near Euston has excellent South Indian vegetarian spots that are underrated.
• Lunchtime thali specials are usually better value than the à la carte menu at dinner.
• Ask staff what they'd recommend — good Indian restaurants are usually proud to tell you.