Thanks to an abundance of fragrant spices, exotic flavors, and tasty ingredients, Indian cuisine is no more lacking when it's without meat. Vegetarian dishes are everywhere across India, and their increase in popularity in the West has spurned a number of veggie eateries to pop up in Britain's capital. Here are the ten best vegetarian Indian restaurants in London.
The first in the Rasa family of restaurants, Rasa in Stoke Newington, is an award-winning curry institution that's been serving up authentic vegetarian Keralan dishes for over twenty years. With a focus on Southern Indian classics like Dosa Laden with spiced vegetables and Cheera cCrry with paneer cheese, Rasa's food is big on taste and affordable in price.
Opening in 1946, Covent Garden's Punjab is the oldest North Indian restaurant in the UK – so it's safe to say they've had plenty of time to perfect their flavorful dishes. Whilst not entirely vegetarian, their meat-free offerings are plentiful and exceptional; think Bhindi Masala and their signature house dish, Baigan – whole stuffed aubergines cooked Punjabi style. Situated in the heart of Theatreland, it's a popular spot for tourists and in-the-know locals alike.
Sagar takes a contemporary approach to classic vegetarian Southern Indian dishes. The multiple locations in central and west London are a testament to the popularity of the tasty and affordable dishes. From topping-laden Uthappams (lentil pizzas) to crowd-pleasing favorites like Aloo Ghobi, their menu features something for every palette.
With a great value for money buffet, Chutneys in Euston is a friendly, informal spot for a tasty Indian veggie lunch on the move. Served every day at lunchtime and all day on Sunday, it's one of Euston's best-kept secrets away from the commuter madness of Kings Cross. The vibe is fuss-free with all emphasis on their flavorsome dishes like Thali selections, spicy Channa Masala and Tarka Dall.
For vegetarian Indian street food with an upscale twist, the trio of Woodlands restaurants found in the well-heeled neighborhoods of Marylebone, Hampstead, and Piccadilly hit the spot. With a heritage dating back 35 years, Woodlands' Marylebone outpost was, in fact, one of London's first ever Indian vegetarian restaurants. Opt for a selection of street food treats like their Sev oPori (pastry biscuits topped with onion, potato, and yogurt) or go all out with a giant Thali feast.
Thanks to recent refit, Sakoni's in Wembley has been transformed to an elegant bright dining space. Specializing in self-service pan-Indian veggie cuisine, there's plenty to keep taste-buds happy. In fact, for something a little more off piste, why not try Sakoni's East-meets-West specialties like their Bombay club sandwich or Indo-Chinese chips with paneer tossed in green chili.
Situated in the vicinity of Neasden's Hindu temple, Shayona delivers authentic vegetarian Indian food in spades. During the week, there's a gorge-worthy all you can eat buffet and, in the evening, Shayona present a plethora of traditional dishes form across the Indian continent. Think; South Indian Dosas, Mumbai-style Chaats, and Rajasthani Thalis. With a generously sized dining space, it's a great spot for events and large parties too.
Continually voted one of London's finest Indian restaurants, Belgravia's Amaya is in a class of its own when it comes to peerless Indian food. While it does serve meat, their veggie offering is one of the best in town thanks to a constantly-changing seasonal menu featuring the likes of mouthwatering spinach and fig Tikki and Shakarkhand Chat – griddled Indian white sweet potato with tamarind and yogurt. Amaya's super-grand palatial surroundings are sure to wow the most discerning of diner.
A tiny, unassuming cafe, Indian Veg is almost always packed to the rafters thanks to its wholesome fare and wallet-friendly AYCE lunch buffet starring bhajis, salads curries and samosas. Situated on the foodie-stretch of Chapel Market, Indian Veg has been a neighborfavoriteurite since 1981. Come for the decor as much as the food – quirky and eccentric, the walls are covered in year's worth of veggie propaganda.
With branches as far away as Canada, Singapore, and the Middle East, Saravanaa Bhavan is quite literally one of the largest vegetarian chains in the world. London's home to six Saravanaa Bhavan locations dotted about from east to west of the Capital. The ambiance is pretty no-frills but with a huge menu, their food spans a wealth of Indian regions – including some Chinese options too for diners who'd like to head a little further east.