Discover the Best Indian Restaurants in Edinburgh

Get a taste of India in the heart of Scotland

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is home to a thriving food scene that offers a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. From Michelin-starred restaurants to street food vendors, the city has something to offer for everyone. If you’re craving for some delicious Indian food, then you’re in luck as Edinburgh boasts an array of exceptional Indian restaurants.

Indian cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the world, and for good reason. It is known for its bold flavors, rich spices, and diverse range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a quick bite on the go, there’s an Indian restaurant in Edinburgh that will satisfy your cravings.

Why Edinburgh is the perfect place for Indian food?

Edinburgh has a long and fascinating history of Indian cuisine, dating back to the 18th century when the first Indian restaurant was opened in London. Since then, Indian cuisine has become an integral part of the UK’s culinary landscape, and Edinburgh is no exception. The city’s Indian restaurants offer a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors, using locally sourced ingredients to create innovative dishes that are both delicious and authentic.

Whether you’re looking for spicy curries, mouth-watering biryanis, or tasty vegetarian options, you’ll find a diverse range of Indian cuisine in Edinburgh. Here are some of the best Indian restaurants in Edinburgh that you must try:

1. Dishoom

🍽️ Known for its Bombay-style cuisine, Dishoom is a popular chain of Indian restaurants that has taken the UK by storm. The Edinburgh branch of Dishoom is located in the city center and offers a vibrant atmosphere, delicious food and impeccable service. The menu is inspired by the Irani cafes of Bombay and features classic dishes such as biryanis, curries, and grilled meats.

2. Mother India

🍽️ Mother India is a popular restaurant that has been serving up delicious Indian cuisine since 1996. Located in Edinburgh’s Old Town, this restaurant offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with a menu that features classic Indian dishes such as chicken tikka masala, lamb rogan josh, and chana masala. Vegetarian options are also available.

3. Voujon

🍽️ Voujon is an award-winning restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh that offers a contemporary take on Indian cuisine. The restaurant has a modern and elegant interior, with a menu that features a fusion of Indian and European flavors. The dishes are created using locally sourced ingredients, and the restaurant prides itself on its high-quality food and impeccable service.

4. The Radhuni

🍽️ The Radhuni is a popular restaurant located in Loanhead, on the outskirts of Edinburgh. This family-run restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of Indian and Bangladeshi dishes. The restaurant uses traditional cooking techniques to create authentic and delicious food, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

5. Kismot

🍽️ Kismot is a small family-run restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh that offers a unique and innovative take on Indian cuisine. The menu features a range of dishes that are influenced by different parts of India, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its spicy curries and its famous Kismot Killer curry challenge, which has attracted visitors from all over the world.

6. Khushi’s

🍽️ Khushi’s is a popular Indian restaurant that has been serving up delicious food in Edinburgh for over 70 years. The restaurant has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with a menu that features classic Indian dishes such as lamb balti, chicken tikka masala, and vegetable samosas. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.

7. Passage to India

🍽️ Passage to India is a popular Indian restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a menu that features a range of classic Indian dishes, including tandoori chicken, lamb rogan josh, and vegetable biryani. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

8. The Pakora Bar

🍽️ The Pakora Bar is a popular Indian street food vendor located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The restaurant offers a range of delicious pakoras, samosas, and curries, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegan and gluten-free options.

9. Indian Lounge

🍽️ Indian Lounge is a popular restaurant located in Edinburgh’s West End that offers a range of classic Indian dishes. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of curries, biryanis, and grilled meats. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

10. Kebabish

🍽️ Kebabish is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh that offers a range of Indian and Pakistani dishes. The restaurant has a casual and relaxed atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of curries, biryanis, and kebabs. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

11. Guru

🍽️ Guru is a popular Indian restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh that offers a range of classic Indian dishes. The restaurant has a modern and sophisticated atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of curries, biryanis, and grilled meats. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

12. Shezan

🍽️ Shezan is a popular Indian restaurant located in Edinburgh’s Southside that offers a range of classic Indian dishes. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of curries, biryanis, and grilled meats. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

13. Mumbai Diners Club

🍽️ Mumbai Diners Club is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh that offers a range of classic Indian dishes. The restaurant has a bright and colorful atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of curries, biryanis, and grilled meats. The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

What makes Indian cuisine so special?

Indian cuisine is known for its unique blend of herbs and spices, which creates a complex and flavorful taste. The cuisine is also known for its diverse range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, making it an ideal choice for those with dietary restrictions. Indian cuisine is also known for its health benefits, with many of the herbs and spices used in Indian cooking having medicinal properties.

FAQs

1. What is the best Indian restaurant in Edinburgh?

The best Indian restaurant in Edinburgh is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, some of the top-rated Indian restaurants in Edinburgh include Dishoom, Mother India, and Voujon.

2. What are the most popular Indian dishes?

Some of the most popular Indian dishes include chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, lamb rogan josh, biryani, and samosas.

3. Is Indian food spicy?

Indian food can be spicy, but not all dishes are spicy. It depends on the ingredients and spices used in the dish.

4. Are there vegetarian options available in Indian restaurants?

Yes, most Indian restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian options, including dal, chana masala, and vegetable curries.

5. What are some common herbs and spices used in Indian cooking?

Some common herbs and spices used in Indian cooking include cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger, garlic, and chili powder.

6. Do Indian restaurants in Edinburgh offer gluten-free options?

Yes, most Indian restaurants in Edinburgh offer gluten-free options, including dishes made with rice or lentil flour.

7. What is the difference between North Indian and South Indian cuisine?

North Indian cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, including tandoori chicken and butter chicken, while South Indian cuisine is known for its light and healthy dishes, including dosas and idlis.

8. Are there any Indian street food vendors in Edinburgh?

Yes, there are several Indian street food vendors in Edinburgh, including The Pakora Bar and The Indian Street Food Company.

9. What is the Kismot Killer curry challenge?

The Kismot Killer curry challenge is a food challenge offered by Kismot restaurant in Edinburgh. The challenge involves eating a curry that is so spicy it can cause physical discomfort.

10. What