Indian food and the UK? It’s a love story as old as a perfectly spiced curry. Whether you’re a curry enthusiast or just someone who appreciates good food, these Top 20 Indian Restaurants in the UK (thanks to the British Indian Good Food Guide) are here to make your taste buds dance.
From long-loved family recipes to fresh twists on classic dishes, these restaurants bring the best of Indian food right to your table.
So, whether you’re craving a rich, comforting curry or some tasty street food, get ready to tuck in!
Raval: The Northern Star
Let’s kick things off in Newcastle Gateshead with Raval Indian Brasserie & Bar, a spot that’s nabbed the title of Best Indian Restaurant Outside London.
Sitting right by the Tyne Bridge, Raval has done more than just cook up great food—it’s put the North East on the foodie map.
Phil Shaw, Marketing Director at the British Indian Good Food Guide, sums it up perfectly: “Raval has redefined Indian dining in the region.
Their focus on innovation and authenticity is unmatched, which is why they’ve earned a place at the top of our guide.”
And with dishes like Lobster & Mango and Darjeeling Lamb Cutlets, it’s clear they know what they’re doing.
Raval walks the line between staying true to Indian roots and pushing the boundaries of what Indian food can be.
Top 20 Indian Restaurants in the UK
Without further ado, here’s the list you’ve been waiting for: the top Indian dining spots across the UK. Whether you’re after Michelin-starred glamour or a hidden gem, this list has it all:
- Raval Indian Brasserie & Bar (Newcastle Gateshead) – Best Indian Restaurant Outside London.
- Quilon (London) – Michelin-starred, serving up coastal Indian magic.
- Benares Restaurant & Bar (London) – An elegant Indian-British fusion experience.
- Dishoom Manchester – Celebrating the Irani cafés of old with a comforting, nostalgic menu.
- Tharavadu (Leeds) – A tribute to traditional Keralan cuisine.
- Kanishka by Atul Kochhar (London) – Experimental tasting menus that push the limits of Indian dining.
- Asha’s (Birmingham) – Classic dishes with a modern twist.
- Swadish (Glasgow) – Traditional flavours meet contemporary flair.
- Tuk Tuk Indian Street Food (Edinburgh) – Bold, vibrant, and bursting with the flavours of India’s streets.
- Purple Poppadom (Cardiff) – A playful mix of Indian and Welsh influences.
- Mowgli Street Food (Liverpool) – Bringing the buzz of India’s street markets to your table.
- Veeraswamy (London) – The UK’s oldest Indian restaurant, and still a must-visit.
- Masala Junction (Nottingham) – A melting pot of Indian flavours.
- Urban Choola (Sheffield) – A fresh take on Indian comfort food.
- Mumtaz (Bradford) – Known for its rich, authentic Punjabi dishes.
- The Chilli Pickle (Brighton) – A modern spin on classic Indian flavours.
- Kuti’s Brasserie (Southampton) – Celebrating the regional diversity of Indian cuisine.
- Tamatanga (Leicester) – A vibrant, lively spot that never disappoints.
- The Mint Room (Bristol) – Upscale Indian dining with rave reviews.
- Dishoom Shoreditch (London) – Another Dishoom gem with all the same charm.
Why Indian Cuisine is Thriving in the UK
Indian food has become as British as a Sunday roast—just spicier. With more than 10,000 Indian restaurants dotted across the UK, it’s clear that Brits have a serious soft spot for a good curry.
As Phil Shaw from the British Indian Good Food Guide puts it, “Indian restaurants are no longer just places for a night out—they’re cultural landmarks, representing the diversity and vibrancy of British food culture.”
And it’s not just about a quick takeaway anymore. Diners are after something that feels authentic—real regional flavours from across India, whether it’s a Goan fish curry or a fragrant Keralan stew. The UK’s appetite for genuine Indian cuisine has never been bigger.
Discover the Best Indian Cuisine in the UK
So, whether you’re in the mood for a fiery vindaloo or something a bit more refined, the British Indian Good Food Guide has you covered.
Take a look at the full list online and prepare yourself for an unforgettable food journey.
Indian cuisine is more than just surviving in the UK—it’s absolutely flourishing. And truth be told, we wouldn’t want it any other way.
So, why wait? Discover your new favourite restaurant and let the rich, bold flavours of India transport you without ever leaving home.