The Best Indian Restaurants In Edinburgh

Inundated with flavor, Indian food is a wondrous symphony of ingredients, each of which complement the other. The gastronomic maze of textures, in tandem with enticing aromas and unfathomable tastes, make this sumptuous cuisine a firm favorite amongst the Scots — with the quintessential curry serving as the unofficial ‘other’ national dish. Embrace this culinary journey of enlightening effect and discover the best Indian restaurants in Edinburgh.

1. Khushi’s

Restaurant, Indian, Vegetarian, Vegan

Mauritus has a strong Indian influence in cuisine

Visionary and timeless, Khushi’s has been enchanting Edinburgh since it first opened in 1947. Founded by Khushi Mohammed, this stellar family-run eatery was the first Indian restaurant in the city. Smart décor adorned with picturesque lanterns adds that extra bit of pizzazz to this already iconic local institution. From stuffed tawa paneer to pakora chaat and punjabi ghost, the fun never ends. That butter chicken, though! Delish!

2. Mother India’s Cafe

Restaurant, Cafe, Indian, Tapas, Vegetarian, Vegan

With dishes resembling edible art, Mother India’s Cafe is the go-to spot for some of the best Indian cuisine in town. A uniting and memorable culinary experience, the tapas style eats are cooked to perfection and sized in a way akin to sharing — that is, if you can tear yourself away from the delightful tastes and find it within your heart to share! This foodie sanctuary, adored by locals and drifters alike, is filled to the brim with fun, banter and relaxed vibes.

3. Kalpna

Restaurant, Indian, Healthy, Vegetarian

The kind of place that never fails to bring a smile to your face, Kalpna has established itself as one of Edinburgh’s greatest vegetarian restaurants. With countless awards and a stunning menu, consider this the perfect blend of traditional and contemporary Indian cuisines. The produce gives fresh a brand new meaning, while the intricately beautiful wall art adds a sprinkling of sophistication. A vegetarian’s gastronomic playground, Kalpna stands victorious.

5. Indian Cavalry Club

Restaurant, Indian, Vegetarian, Vegan

Charming and classy, Indian Cavalry Club has won over Scotland’s food enthusiasts since opening in 1986. The deftly skilled chefs are master magicians in the kitchen and the extensive menu is ideal for both newbies and well-seasoned Indian diners. The Club Dining Room and The Pakora Bar are equally alluring and both serve expertly made southern and northern Indian options. Sultry surroundings, fantastic veggie picks and a meticulous attention to detail makes this jewel stand out from the rest.

6. Tanjore

Restaurant, Indian, Vegan, Vegetarian, Fast Food

The perfect fusion of healthy and flavorsome, Tanjore offers a welcomed piece of South India in Edinburgh. From uttapams and sambar to dosas and idlies, this authentic eatery, which displays loyalty to the Cholan tradition, has everything you could ever dream of in an Indian restaurant, and then some. Tasteful décor, a wonderful atmosphere and the more-ish mouth-watering vegetarian, meat and seafood dishes epitomize excellence. Who knew healthy could taste so wonderful?

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