Top 10 Best Curry Houses in London

Dishoom Covent Garden delivers the same beloved Bombay café magic as its Shoreditch sibling, but with the added theatre district buzz and pre-show crowds. The House Black Daal remains the hero dish, though the Pau Bhaji is an underrated gem for those wanting street food authenticity with sit-down comfort. The sprawling space with its vintage fans, distressed mirrors, and moody lighting creates an atmospheric escape from Leicester Square's tourist chaos. Early breakfasts and late dinners avoid the inevitable queues, while the bar area serves excellent cocktails for those just wanting to soak in the ambiance.

Govinda's Soho Street offers a completely vegetarian Hare Krishna dining experience that's surprisingly sophisticated for its wallet-friendly prices. The Vegetable Biryani is fragrant and generously portioned, proving that meat-free Indian food can be utterly satisfying and full of complex flavors. The simple, cafeteria-style setup and impossibly low prices (around £8 for a full meal) make it a haven for students and budget-conscious diners, though the quality punches well above its weight. It's unpretentious, filling, and genuinely spiritual in its approach to serving wholesome food without markup.

The Mughal's Fitzrovia location consistently earns its outstanding ratings with classic North Indian cooking executed to perfection. Their Lamb Rogan Josh is textbook perfect—aromatic, rich, and tender enough to justify the restaurant's growing reputation beyond the curry house mile. The 50% off deal through First Table makes this already reasonable spot an absolute steal for early diners, while the intimate dining room and attentive service create a neighborhood gem atmosphere. It's the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name, but newcomers are treated like old friends.

Kricket Soho reimagines Indian small plates in a sleek, contemporary setting where sharing is the name of the game. The Samphire Pakoras are a revelation—crispy, delicate fritters that prove Indian street food can be both refined and playful. The intimate counter seating lets you watch the kitchen in action, while the carefully curated wine list shows serious thought beyond the usual lager pairings. Perfect for couples or smaller groups who want to explore modern Indian flavors without the formality, though the no-reservation policy means timing your arrival is key.

Colonel Saab brings a personal touch to High Holborn with its collection of family heirlooms and artwork that tell stories of colonial India. The Butter Chicken here is refined yet comforting, with a tomato-cream sauce that's neither too sweet nor heavy, striking that elusive perfect balance. The theatrical presentation extends beyond the food to the stunning interiors—think jewel tones, vintage photographs, and an elegant bar area perfect for pre-dinner cocktails. It's sophisticated enough for business lunches but warm enough for celebrations, making it one of central London's most versatile Indian restaurants.

The Famous Curry Bazaar lives up to its name with a menu that reads like a greatest hits compilation of subcontinental cuisine. Their King Prawn Jalfrezi delivers serious heat alongside succulent prawns, showcasing the kind of bold flavors that keep Brick Lane's reputation intact. The restaurant's colorful decor and lively atmosphere make it ideal for groups who want energy with their curry, while the pricing remains firmly in tourist-friendly territory. Weekend nights see the place packed with a mix of locals and visitors, all enjoying the generous portions and enthusiastic service.

Gymkhana elevates Indian dining to Michelin-starred heights in a stunning Mayfair setting inspired by colonial-era Indian gymkhana clubs. The Wild Muntjac Biryani is their signature showstopper, arriving at the table sealed in pastry with theatrical flourish, revealing fragrant rice and perfectly cooked game meat. This is where business dinners and special occasions demand sophisticated Indian flavors paired with an exceptional wine list. The dark wood interiors, ceiling fans, and hunting trophies create an ambiance that's colonial-chic without feeling stuffy, though prices firmly place this in the splurge category.

Sheba wears its 'Best Curry House in UK' title proudly, delivering consistently excellent Bengali and North Indian cuisine in the heart of Brick Lane. The Lamb Bhuna here is exceptional—tender meat in a thick, aromatic sauce that showcases proper curry house technique without the shortcuts. The restaurant strikes a balance between traditional curry house vibes and modern comfort, with attentive service that makes both first-timers and curry connoisseurs feel at home. It's particularly strong for groups who want variety, as the sharing platters let you sample across the menu.

Aladin has earned its stripes as one of Brick Lane's most decorated curry houses, with walls plastered in awards and celebrity photos to prove it. Their Chicken Tikka Masala strikes the perfect balance between authenticity and British curry house nostalgia, served in generous portions that won't break the bank. The bustling atmosphere captures the essence of Brick Lane's curry mile, with friendly waiters who genuinely guide you through the menu rather than just taking orders. Late-night crowds spill in after pub closing time, making it a true East End institution.

Dishoom brings the romance of old Bombay's Irani cafés to Shoreditch with its Art Deco interiors and all-day dining charm. The Black Daal, slow-cooked overnight for 24 hours, is the stuff of legend—creamy, rich, and worth the inevitable queue that snakes around Boundary Street. Perfect for brunchers who want Bacon Naan Rolls or dinner crowds seeking that Instagram-perfect lighting, this is where casual meets utterly exceptional. The communal tables and vintage Bollywood posters create an atmosphere that's equally suited to first dates and family celebrations.