London boasts a diverse and vibrant Indian food scene, and chef-restaurateur Asma Khan of Darjeeling Express offers a curated guide to some of the city’s best Indian restaurants. Khan, originally from Kolkata, India, has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights and cultural appreciation in the culinary world. She encourages diners to embrace the diverse regional variations within Indian cuisine and move beyond typical dishes like chicken tikka masala.
Khan’s recommendations range from Michelin-starred fine dining establishments to casual street food joints, showcasing the breadth of Indian flavors available in London. Her selections reflect a deep understanding of Indian culinary traditions and a passion for sharing her culture with others. This guide provides a glimpse into Khan’s personal favorites, offering a unique perspective on London’s Indian food landscape.
For a fine dining experience, Khan suggests Benares, a Michelin-starred restaurant led by chef Sameer Taneja. Taneja masterfully blends traditional Indian dishes with seasonal British produce. Khan recommends the hiran boti tikka, featuring deer meat marinated with moringa leaves and creme fraiche, and the seafood thali, inspired by India’s coastal flavors and prepared with local seafood. Benares is located at 12a Berkeley Square, London, W1J 6BS.
The Cinnamon Club, housed in the former Westminster Library, offers contemporary Indian cuisine. Chef Vivek Singh’s menu features homestyle and royalty-inspired dishes. Khan recommends the chicken rezala, a delicately spiced Bengali dish with poppy seeds, yoghurt, saffron, and kewra water. The Cinnamon Club is located at 30-32 Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3BU. A budget-friendly three-course meal is available Monday to Saturday between 17:30 and 18:00 for £38.
For a more casual experience, Roti Chai, with its Street Kitchen and Dining Room, offers a range of Indian chaat and regional specialties. Khan recommends the samosa chaat, chilli chicken buns, papri chaat, and pani puri. Roti Chai is located at 3 Portman Mews South, London W1H 6HS, and is an ideal spot for a late lunch or snack. The small, shareable portions allow diners to sample a variety of flavors.
Taste of India, located in East Ham, is Khan’s go-to spot for dosa, a South Indian crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter. The dosa is typically served with spiced potatoes and sambhar. Khan recommends exploring the Indian supermarkets in East Ham for spices and sweets. Taste of India is located at 293-295 High St N, London E12 6SL, and is easily accessible for those willing to travel a bit outside of central London.
Quilon, another Michelin-starred restaurant, features unique southern Indian dishes prepared by Chef Sriram Aylur. Khan recommends the Cochin lobster broth and the Malabar biryani. Quilon is located at 41 Buckingham Gate, London, SW1E 6AF. The restaurant’s central location and nuanced flavors make it a noteworthy dining destination.
Diwana Bhel Poori House, a longstanding institution, offers vegetarian favorites in a relaxed setting. Khan fondly remembers her early visits and recommends the bhel poori, dosa, and thalis. Diwana Bhel Poori House is located at 121, 123 Drummond St, London NW1 2HL, and offers a nostalgic glimpse into London’s Indian food history.
Asher’s Africana, a family-run restaurant, caters to the Gujarati diaspora with traditional dishes like chapatis and parathas. Khan appreciates the warm atmosphere and the care shown to older generations. Asher’s Africana is located at 224 Ealing Rd, Wembley HA0 4QL, and is a local favorite known for its authentic flavors.
Finally, Café Spice Namaste, located in East London’s Royal Albert Wharf, offers Parsi cuisine. Khan recommends the dhansak, Parsi prawn curry, and the original vindaloo. Café Spice Namaste is located at 1-2 Lower Dock Walk, London E16 2GT, and is worth the trip for its unique culinary offerings and beautiful location.
