London is home to some of the finest Indian restaurants in the world, offering everything from traditional curries to modern interpretations of India’s rich culinary heritage. Central London, in particular, is a paradise for lovers of Indian food, with venues ranging from Michelin-starred fine dining to hidden gems offering authentic regional specialties. Whether you're craving a comforting biryani, fragrant street food, or an innovative tasting menu, we’ve rounded up the top 10 Indian restaurants in Central London that bring bold flavors and culinary artistry to the table.
1. Gymkhana, Mayfair
A Michelin-starred favorite, Gymkhana offers an opulent take on Indian cuisine inspired by the Colonial Indian clubs of old. The dark wood interiors and leather banquettes set the tone for a meal that combines tradition with luxury. Their signature dishes, like the wild muntjac biryani, and the tandoori masala lamb chops, are cooked with a precision that has made Gymkhana one of the most celebrated Indian restaurants in London. The cocktail menu, too, is worth exploring, with creative drinks that incorporate Indian spices.
Location: 42 Albemarle St, Mayfair
Best for: Michelin-starred Indian cuisine in an upscale setting.
Don’t miss: The wild muntjac biryani, a show-stopping signature dish.
2. Dishoom, Covent Garden
Evoking the spirit of Mumbai’s old Irani cafés, Dishoom in Covent Garden is a crowd favorite, beloved for its charming decor and lively atmosphere. The menu is inspired by Bombay’s street food, offering dishes like pav bhaji (spicy mashed vegetables with buttered buns) and the iconic black daal, simmered for 24 hours. Whether you're here for breakfast (the bacon naan roll is a must) or dinner, Dishoom delivers consistent flavours with a side of nostalgia.
Location: 12 Upper St Martin’s Ln, Covent Garden
Best for: Bombay-inspired street food in a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The black daal—rich, comforting, and worth the hype.
3. Trishna, Marylebone
Trishna, a Michelin-starred gem in Marylebone, brings the flavors of India’s southwestern coastal regions to London. Specializing in seafood, the restaurant showcases dishes like Tellicherry pepper and garlic crab and Koliwada squid, combining fresh ingredients with bold spices. The light, contemporary decor and a thoughtfully curated wine list make it a sophisticated choice for an intimate dinner or special occasion. Their tasting menu offers a wonderful journey through Indian coastal cuisine.
Location: 15-17 Blandford St, Marylebone
Best for: Coastal Indian cuisine in a refined, modern setting.
Don’t miss: The Kerala-style lobster, a luxurious seafood indulgence.
4. Jamavar, Mayfair
Jamavar offers a regal dining experience inspired by the palaces of India. The restaurant, which has earned a Michelin star, excels in showcasing the diverse flavours of India, from the spicy curries of the north to the coastal dishes of the south. Standout dishes include the Old Delhi butter chicken and the Malabar prawns. With its plush interiors, marble floors, and a menu that celebrates India’s culinary diversity, Jamavar is perfect for those looking to experience Indian food at its most luxurious.
Location: 8 Mount St, Mayfair
Best for: A luxurious Indian fine dining experience with regional specialties.
Don’t miss: The Old Delhi butter chicken, an elevated take on a classic.
5. Hoppers, Soho
For something a little more casual but equally delicious, Hoppers brings the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu to Soho. Named after the traditional Sri Lankan pancakes made from fermented rice and coconut batter, Hoppers is known for its fragrant curries, crispy dosas, and fiery mutton rolls. The bone marrow varuval, served with roti, is a must-try for adventurous eaters. The buzzing atmosphere and bold, punchy flavors make this a go-to spot for spice lovers.
Location: 49 Frith St, Soho
Best for: Sri Lankan and South Indian street food in a fun, casual setting.
Don’t miss: The bone marrow varuval—rich, spicy, and unforgettable.
6. Benares, Mayfair
Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, Benares is a Michelin-starred restaurant that redefines Indian fine dining with a modern, globally inspired twist. Chef Atul Kochhar blends Indian spices with European techniques to create innovative dishes like the venison tikka and tandoori Norwegian king crab. The beautifully plated food, impeccable service, and chic interiors make Benares one of London’s most sought-after Indian restaurants. Their tasting menu is perfect for those looking to explore the full range of the kitchen's creativity.
Location: 12a Berkeley Square, Mayfair.
Best for: Modern Indian fine dining with global influences.
Don’t miss: The venison tikka—an elegant, flavourful dish.
7. Cinnamon Club, Westminster
Set in the former Westminster Library, The Cinnamon Club is one of the most iconic Indian restaurants in London, blending traditional Indian flavors with a contemporary fine dining twist. The restaurant’s beautiful, book-lined interiors make it a striking setting for dishes like tandoori breast of Anjou pigeon and rogan josh shepherd’s pie. Executive chef Vivek Singh is known for his bold, inventive dishes that combine classic Indian techniques with British ingredients, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Location: Great Smith St, Westminster
Best for: A blend of Indian tradition and modernity in an iconic setting.
Don’t miss: The tandoori breast of Anjou pigeon—a bold and flavourful starter.
8. Amaya, Knightsbridge
For those who love the theatre of open kitchens and the thrill of seeing their food cooked in front of them, Amaya offers a unique Indian grilling experience in the heart of Knightsbridge. This Michelin-starred restaurant specializes in tandoor, grill, and sigri cooking, serving dishes like tandoori lamb chops, grilled paneer, and charcoal-roasted quail. The restaurant’s sleek, contemporary design and the focus on small plates make it ideal for sharing, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes with a touch of spice.
Location: Halkin Arcade, 19 Motcomb St, Knightsbridge
Best for: Grilled Indian tapas-style dishes in a sleek, modern setting.
Don’t miss: The tandoori lamb chops—smoky, tender, and perfectly spiced.
9. Brigadiers, City of London
Inspired by the army mess bars of India, Brigadiers combines the best of Indian barbecue and pub culture. The menu is packed with big, bold flavors, featuring butter chicken wings, Goan pork ribs, and the signature lamb shoulder biryani. The lively atmosphere, with its multiple dining rooms, pool table, and bar, makes it an exciting destination for groups or after-work gatherings. Brigadiers is as much about fun as it is about fantastic Indian food.
Location: 1-5 Bloomberg Arcade, City of London
Best for: Indian barbecue and fun pub vibes, perfect for group dining.
Don’t miss: The lamb shoulder biryani—a sharing dish that’s bursting with flavour.
10. Darjeeling Express, Covent Garden
Founded by Asma Khan, Darjeeling Express is a restaurant with a soul, serving home-style Indian food inspired by the royal kitchens of Bengal. Known for its all-female kitchen team, Darjeeling Express brings an authentic taste of Khan’s Calcutta roots, offering dishes like puchkas (crisp semolina shells filled with spiced water), mutton curry, and prawn malai curry. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and heartfelt cooking make it a must-visit for those seeking comforting, authentic Indian flavours.
Location: 2a Garrick St, Covent Garden
Best for: Authentic, home-style Indian food with a focus on family recipes.
Don’t miss: The prawn malai curry—rich, creamy, and deeply flavourful.