Introduction
Craving the vibrant flavors of India after a day of conquering the shops at Oxford Circus? London’s Oxford Circus, a whirlwind of retail therapy and entertainment, can leave you hungry for more than just the latest fashion trends. Fortunately, a world of aromatic spices and mouthwatering curries awaits just steps away. Indian cuisine, with its diverse regional variations and rich history, offers a culinary adventure for every palate. Whether you’re seeking a quick and affordable lunch, a family-friendly dinner, or an exquisite fine-dining experience, the area surrounding Oxford Circus boasts an impressive array of Indian restaurants to satisfy your cravings. This guide will explore the best Indian restaurants near Oxford Circus, catering to different tastes, budgets, and desired dining experiences. So, prepare to embark on a flavorful journey and discover your new favorite Indian spot! Planning a romantic dinner or a quick bite before a show? Perhaps grabbing takeout is more your style? Or maybe you need a place for that important business lunch? Fear not, we’ve got you covered.
Defining the Oxford Circus Area
For the purposes of this culinary exploration, we’ll define the “Oxford Circus area” as the streets within approximately a ten-minute walking radius of Oxford Circus tube station. This encompasses areas like Regent Street, Oxford Street itself, Great Portland Street, and the side streets branching off from them. This location is strategically relevant due to its incredibly high foot traffic, attracting a diverse clientele from shoppers and tourists to business professionals and theatregoers. The sheer volume of people passing through ensures a constant demand for quality dining options, resulting in a vibrant and competitive restaurant scene. Therefore, the Indian restaurants located here must consistently deliver exceptional food and service to thrive.
Restaurant Recommendations: A Symphony of Flavors
Let’s delve into the heart of the matter: the restaurants themselves. We’ve categorized our recommendations to help you quickly find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
Casual and Budget-Friendly Delights
When time is of the essence, or you are just looking for an easy and delicious dinner on the go, these options hit the spot.
Dishoom Carnaby
Address: Kingly Street, just a short walk from Oxford Circus. Cuisine: Bombay-style cafe food, offering a vibrant and eclectic menu. Price Range: Affordable. Highlight Dishes: Their signature Black Daal is a must-try, slow-cooked and incredibly rich. The bacon naan roll is the perfect breakfast or brunch treat. Their lamb chops are seasoned and cooked to perfection. Atmosphere: Bustling and energetic, reminiscent of a classic Bombay cafe. Why it’s good for: A quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a casual gathering with friends. Also perfect for a pre-theatre snack. Brief Review: Dishoom is consistently busy for a reason. The food is exceptional, the atmosphere is lively, and the prices are reasonable. It’s a great place to experience the vibrant flavors of Bombay in a modern setting. Expect queues during peak hours, but they are almost always worth the wait.
Roti Chai
Address: Orchard Street, near Selfridges. Cuisine: Indian street food and casual dining. Price Range: Affordable. Highlight Dishes: The railway lamb curry is a hearty and flavorful option, and the street snacks like pani puri and vada pav are a delicious way to sample a variety of flavors. Atmosphere: Casual and contemporary, with a focus on street food-inspired decor. Why it’s good for: A quick and affordable lunch, a casual dinner, or a pre-shopping snack. Brief Review: Roti Chai offers a fantastic selection of Indian street food at reasonable prices. The portions are generous, and the flavors are authentic. It’s a great place to experience the diverse tastes of India without breaking the bank. This place is a good contender for best indian food Oxford Circus.
Masala Zone
Address: Located in various locations near Oxford Circus. Cuisine: Regional Indian Thalis and street food. Price Range: Affordable to Mid-Range Highlight Dishes: Their Thalis are perfect for sampling a variety of dishes. Be sure to also try their street food snacks. Atmosphere: Lively and family-friendly, great for experiencing the energy of Indian street food culture. Why it’s good for: A quick lunch, informal dinners, and experiencing different regions of India. Brief Review: Great for a family lunch or a quick dinner when you want to eat a variety of different dishes and don’t want to spend too much.
Mid-Range and Family-Friendly Restaurants
For evenings when you’d like to linger a bit longer and enjoy the company of friends and family, these options offer a more relaxed and comfortable setting.
Cinnamon Club
Address: Great Smith Street. Cuisine: Modern Indian with innovative dishes. Price Range: Mid-Range to High-End. Highlight Dishes: Try their modern takes on classic dishes, like the tandoori seabass or the lamb rogan josh. The cocktails are also exceptional. Atmosphere: A historical library turned into a contemporary space. Why it’s good for: Celebrating special occasions, a nice dinner with family and friends, or a business lunch. Brief Review: Cinnamon Club is an oldie but a goodie in London’s Indian restaurant scene. A historical space mixed with modern food – perfect for a treat.
Kricket Soho
Address: Broadwick Street, Soho (a short walk from Oxford Circus). Cuisine: Indian-inspired small plates with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Price Range: Mid-Range. Highlight Dishes: The Keralan fried chicken and the samphire pakoras are consistently praised. Atmosphere: Trendy and lively, with a focus on small plates and sharing. Why it’s good for: A fun and social dinner with friends, trying new and innovative Indian-inspired dishes. Brief Review: Kricket offers a unique take on Indian cuisine, with small plates that are perfect for sharing and exploring different flavors. The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic, making it a great choice for a night out with friends.
Fine Dining and Special Occasion Restaurants
When only the finest Indian cuisine will do, these restaurants offer an unforgettable dining experience.
Benares Restaurant & Bar
Address: Berkeley Square, Mayfair (a short walk from Oxford Circus). Cuisine: Modern Indian fine dining with a focus on refined flavors and presentation. Price Range: High-End. Highlight Dishes: The tasting menus offer a curated journey through the restaurant’s signature dishes. The tandoori-cooked scallops are a perennial favorite. Atmosphere: Elegant and sophisticated, with impeccable service. Why it’s good for: A romantic dinner, a special occasion, or a business dinner. Brief Review: Benares is a truly exceptional Indian restaurant that offers a fine dining experience unlike any other. The food is exquisitely prepared, the service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is luxurious. It’s the perfect choice for a memorable evening.
Veeraswamy
Address: Regent Street, just steps from Oxford Circus. Cuisine: Classic Indian fine dining with a focus on traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. Price Range: High-End. Highlight Dishes: The butter chicken is legendary, and the biryanis are expertly crafted. Atmosphere: Luxurious and historic, with a focus on traditional Indian decor. Why it’s good for: A special occasion, a romantic dinner, or a taste of classic Indian elegance. Brief Review: Veeraswamy is London’s oldest Indian restaurant, and it continues to impress with its classic cuisine, impeccable service, and luxurious atmosphere. It’s a timeless choice for a truly special dining experience. If you want Indian food oxford circus this is the closest and fanciest option!
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many of the restaurants listed above offer a wide array of vegetarian and vegan options. Dishoom, Roti Chai, and Masala Zone all have excellent vegetarian sections on their menus. Benares and Veeraswamy are also happy to accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations or to inquire about modifications to existing dishes.
Beyond the Food: Practical Considerations
When planning your Indian culinary adventure near Oxford Circus, keep these factors in mind:
Accessibility: All the restaurants listed are easily accessible by public transportation, with close proximity to Oxford Circus station and other major tube lines. Opening Hours: Be sure to check the restaurant’s website for specific opening hours, as they may vary depending on the day of the week. Some restaurants offer late-night hours, while others have specific lunch and dinner service times. Reservation Policy: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner service and on weekends. Many restaurants allow you to book online or by phone. Fine dining establishments like Benares and Veeraswamy typically require reservations well in advance. Dietary Restrictions: Always inform your server of any dietary restrictions or allergies before ordering. Most Indian restaurants are well-versed in accommodating vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs.
Tips for Choosing the Right Restaurant
With so many fantastic options to choose from, how do you decide which Indian restaurant is right for you? Here are a few helpful tips:
Consider Your Budget: Before you start browsing menus, determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid any unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives. Read Reviews: Take some time to read online reviews on sites like Google Reviews, TripAdvisor, and Yelp. Pay attention to both the positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective. Explore Different Cuisines: Don’t be afraid to try different regional variations of Indian food. From the spicy curries of South India to the creamy sauces of North India, there’s a world of flavors to discover. Ask Locals: If you’re staying at a hotel, ask the concierge for recommendations. Local residents are also a great source of information and can often point you to hidden gems.
Conclusion: A World of Flavors Awaits
The area surrounding Oxford Circus is a treasure trove of Indian culinary delights. From quick and affordable street food to elegant fine dining, there’s an Indian restaurant to suit every taste and budget. So, whether you’re a seasoned curry connoisseur or a curious newcomer, prepare to embark on a flavorful adventure and discover your new favorite Indian dish in the heart of London! These selections should allow you to easily narrow down your search for the best Indian food Oxford Circus has to offer.
