The Most Popular Indian Dish in London?

Indian food has become deeply rooted in British culture, with London sitting at the heart of this culinary love affair. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a go-to comfort meal, Indian cuisine is often top of the list for Londoners. But with so many incredible dishes to choose from, it raises the question: what is the most popular Indian dish in London?

The Reigning Favourite: Chicken Tikka Masala

While opinions vary, one dish consistently tops polls and orders alike — chicken tikka masala. Known for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender pieces of grilled marinated chicken, it has become a firm favourite across the UK, and especially in London.

Its origins are hotly debated. Some claim it was created in Glasgow; others say it was a British adaptation of butter chicken. Either way, it represents a perfect fusion of Indian spices and British taste preferences — and it’s widely available from high-end Indian restaurants to casual takeaways.

Why Londoners Love It

There’s something about chicken tikka masala that appeals to just about everyone. It strikes the perfect balance: spiced but not too spicy, rich but not overwhelming. Its vibrant colour and smooth texture make it visually appealing, while the flavour profile is both satisfying and familiar.

In a city as diverse as London, comfort food often wins — and tikka masala offers both familiarity and indulgence in one bowl.

Other Contenders

Of course, London’s Indian food scene is as varied as its people. While chicken tikka masala takes the top spot, several other dishes come close:

• Butter Chicken: A milder, silkier cousin to tikka masala, popular in North Indian cuisine.
• Lamb Rogan Josh: Fragrant and deeply spiced, this slow-cooked Kashmiri classic is a favourite among meat lovers.
• Paneer Tikka: A vegetarian delight made from Indian cottage cheese, often served sizzling from the grill.
• Chana Masala: Chickpeas cooked in a tangy tomato and onion gravy — a popular plant-based option that packs flavour.

The London Indian Food Experience

What sets London apart is the sheer variety of regional Indian food available. You’ll find everything from South Indian dosas to Punjabi grills, from Gujarati thalis to Bengali fish curries. While chicken tikka masala may be the most widely recognised, it’s just the beginning of what London has to offer.

That’s why locals and visitors alike seek out restaurants that bring both authenticity and a modern twist to Indian dining.

Where to Try It

If you’re wondering where to enjoy the best version of the city’s most beloved curry, look for a restaurant that prioritises flavour, freshness, and hospitality.

At Sun and Sand Lounge, we serve a refined take on traditional Indian dishes, including our signature chicken tikka masala, made with house-blended spices and slow-simmered sauces. Whether you’re joining us for a special occasion or ordering from home, we take pride in delivering real Indian flavour, the kind that makes people fall in love with the cuisine all over again.