A first generation Indian and a self-confessed vegetarian foodie in London, I took up the mission of surfacing authentic contemporary Indian restaurants to replace the “tandoori’s” that are best described as a lost-in-translation version of the cuisine. After much exploration, here are my top picks of 2018 for veggies and meat-lovers alike.
Farzi Cafe London – Bringing the Farzi magic to London
After a string of successes across India and Dubai, Farzi finally opened their first branch bang in the middle of Haymarket in December 2018. While I miss the nitrogen cooking madness at the other branches, the food here is still just as amazing. A young, chic, lively vibe with a really cool ‘vedic’ twist on their cocktails. Their Haas Avocado Chaat, Flamed Padron Peppers and Smoked Aubergine Bharta are to die for. A complete must do!
When to go: Any time
The vibe: Chilled, classy
Budget: £20-30pp
Contact: 8 Haymarket, London, SW1Y 4BP. +44-20-3981-0090
Kutir – Fine dining done right
Kutir (meaning cosy cottage) was launched in November 2018 by Chef Rohit Ghai and Abhishake Sangwan (both of Gymkhana, Jamavar & Bombay Bustle fame), and has quickly become one of London’s top Indian fine dining spots. While the focus is game, Ghai serves up a fine vegetarian menu in a cosy, elegant little setting in Sloane Square. The menu is short but sweet, focussing on quality food and great service. Their Dhokla Apple, Jackfruit Kofta and Truffle Khichdi are delectable.
When to go: Family occasion
The vibe: Low key, classy
Budget: £45-60pp
Contact: 10 Lincoln Street, Chelsea, London SW3 2TS. +44-20-7581-1144
Chokhi Dhani – The royal Rajasthani experience
Chokhi Dhani (meaning fine village) is definitely one of my favourite additions to the London Indian food scene. Set by the riverside in Vauxhall, the ambience is majestic, with the Rajasthani Thaali (platter) adding to the grandeur of the experience. Think 20 dishes to try from on your platter, including classics like Daal Bhati Churma. Awesome cocktails and desserts to match. They even have a bar on the ground floor with an outdoor shisha lounge for anyone interested.
When to go: For a special occasion
The vibe: Majestic yet modern
Budget: £30-40pp
Contact: 2 Riverlight Quay, Nine Elms Lane, London, SW11 8AW; +44 (0)20 3795 9000
Salt Whisky Bar & Dining Room – For that perfect blend of Indian and Arab cultures
Salt has become a key socialising hub on London’s Edgware Road. It offers everything from 180+ different types of whisky to some of the finest North Indian food, coupled with great shisha. The mix of cultures and cuisine is suitably reflected by the varied customers of the restaurant. You could not go wrong with anything on their menu but their Pav Bhaji, Baingan Bharta and Biryani combined with White Grape Mint Shisha are particular favourites.
When to go: Any time for classic, no fuss North Indian food with shisha and cocktails
The vibe: Relaxed yet buzzing
Budget: £20-35pp
Contact: 82 Seymour Street, London W2 2JB; +44 (0)20 7402 1155
Dishoom – Best Indian brunch in town
Dishoom brings to London a feel of Mumbai’s quickly diminishing, bustling Iranian cafes where people would come to take a break, seek inspiration or spend quality time dining with family and friends. Dishoom’s menu blends British and Mumbai’s Parsi cuisines, with the likes of Akuri, Egg Naan Roll and Chilli Cheese Toast to name a few. While Dishoom’s all-round popularity has quickly led to the opening of 5 branches across the UK, my favourite meal there remains their brunch. The Kejriwal and Masala Beans with Chai are a must have!
When to go: Early! People line up from 8am to beat the queues
The vibe: Vibrant
Budget: £15-25pp
Quilon – A taste of the real South India
Quilon, a part of the Taj Group of Hotels, is one of the few restaurants that has managed to sustain its quality and USP over the years. The sell is simple: pan-South Indian cuisine in a stylish setting, and boy do they deliver. The presentation is stylish and, the food, exquisite. Their Mango Curry, Appams and Rasam are yet to be beaten.
When to go: Any time, family occasion
The vibe: Understated, classy
Budget: £25-35pp
Bollywood Stories – Up & coming Indian & Chinese food in Holborn
Bollywood Stories is the new kid on the block, bringing Deepak Yadav’s vision of everyday Indian restaurant food to London. Their menu offers Indian Chinese and North Indian food in an unpretentious, laid back setting amidst Bollywood posters and a chic bar. Their Tandoori Broccoli, Kung Pao Potatoes and Ras Malai are heavenly. Beware, it’s not for the faint hearted!
When to go: Friday or Saturday night for a Bollywood vibe
The vibe: Fun, relaxed
Budget: £25-35pp
The globe-trotting foodie 