A Day in the Life of an Indian Food Lover in London: Must-Try Dishes, Local Favourites, and the Ultimate Curry Crawl Itinerary

 London is an exciting melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and for an Indian food lover, it's a gastronomic paradise. From legendary curry houses to hidden gems tucked in street corners, the city offers an unforgettable culinary journey. If you're someone who can't get enough of the rich, spicy, and diverse flavours of Indian cuisine, then this guide is for you. We’ll explore the must-try dishes, discover some local favourites, and map out the ultimate curry crawl itinerary that will take you to some of the finest London Indian food restaurants.

 Morning: Start with a Spicy Kick – Breakfast at Dishoom

To kickstart your day, head over to Dishoom. Inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom offers a breakfast menu that beautifully blends Indian flavours with a London twist. While you can indulge in a traditional English breakfast, the real star here is their Bacon Naan Roll. The naan is soft and freshly made, filled with crispy smoked bacon, cream cheese, and just a hint of chili tomato jam. It’s the perfect way to get your palate excited for the day ahead.

Another breakfast delight is the Akuri, a spicy Parsi-style scrambled egg dish that’s best paired with warm buttered buns. It’s an energizing and flavourful way to start your food adventure through London.

Midday: Local Favourites – Lunch at The Rajdoot

Located in Hampstead, The Rajdoot has been serving up authentic Indian food in London since 1964. Known for its traditional cooking methods and rich flavours, this restaurant has earned a loyal following. If you’re visiting for lunch, try their signature dish, the Rajdoot Lamb Bhuna. This classic curry is made with slow-cooked lamb, simmered in a thick, spiced gravy that perfectly complements a side of basmati rice or buttery naan.

For vegetarians, the Paneer Tikka is a must-try. The paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is marinated in a blend of spices and cooked in a tandoor, creating a crispy exterior and a soft, flavourful interior. Pair it with a refreshing Mango Lassi for a perfect midday meal that captures the heart of Indian cuisine in the bustling city.

Afternoon: Exploring London’s Indian Sweet Spots

No Indian food journey is complete without sampling some sweet treats. London’s Indian sweet shops offer a dazzling variety of desserts that are as indulgent as they are delicious. Head to Ambala, located in Southall, often referred to as Little India, to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here, you can find a wide selection of Indian sweets, from rich and creamy Rasgullas to delicate, rose-flavoured Gulab Jamuns.

For something a little lighter, try the Kulfi (Indian ice cream) or the vibrant Jalebi, a spiral-shaped, crispy sweet soaked in sugar syrup. These sweets are not only delicious but also a perfect pick-me-up to keep your energy going for the rest of your culinary adventure.

Evening: The Ultimate Curry Crawl Itinerary

When the sun sets, it’s time to dive deep into London’s Indian food scene with the ultimate curry crawl. This itinerary is designed for the adventurous, those who want to sample the best curries across some of London’s top Indian food restaurants. Here’s your perfect route:

 1. Gymkhana (Mayfair)

Start your evening at Gymkhana, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its contemporary take on Indian cuisine. The Wild Muntjac Biryani is a must-try—this fragrant rice dish is slow-cooked with tender deer meat, saffron, and a delicate blend of spices. Pair it with a side of Dal Maharani, a rich black lentil dish slow-cooked for hours.

 2. Tayyabs (Whitechapel)

Next on the list is Tayyabs, an East London institution known for its Punjabi flavours. The lamb Chops here are legendary, charred to perfection in a sizzling marinade of spices. For curry lovers, the Karahi Chicken is a fragrant, spicy dish served in a traditional karahi pan. The heat from the chili will make you want to keep going!

 3. The Rajdoot (Hampstead)

Your third stop is The Rajdoot. Yes, this gem makes it onto the list twice—this time, visit for a proper sit-down dinner experience. Their Chicken Tikka Masala, often claimed to be the national dish of Britain, is a mouth-watering masterpiece. The creamy tomato-based curry, combined with perfectly marinated chicken, makes it a must-try.

 4. Darjeeling Express (Soho)

Finally, end your curry crawl at Darjeeling Express, a restaurant that started as a supper club by Asma Khan. The Prawn Malai Curry is a standout dish here, inspired by the flavours of Bengal. The prawns are cooked in a coconut milk-based sauce, infused with delicate spices that balance heat and sweetness in every bite.

Nightcap: Wind Down with Indian-Inspired Cocktails

After a long day of feasting, what better way to end the evening than with a cocktail that brings Indian spices into the mix? Head over to Cinnamon Club in Westminster, where the cocktail menu is inspired by the flavours of India. Try the Mumbai Martini, a refreshing blend of gin, saffron, and cardamom. Or go for the Spiced Mojito, a twist on the classic, with cumin and chili giving it an unexpected kick.

From iconic dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala to hidden treasures like Wild Muntjac Biryani, London is a city that knows how to do Indian food right. Whether you're indulging in a full curry crawl or just looking for your next go-to spot, the city's Indian food restaurants will not disappoint. So loosen your belt, bring an appetite, and dive into London’s vibrant Indian food scene—you won't regret it!