What is the best Indian restaurant on Brick Lane, London?
Brick Lane is one of London’s most fantastic spots, with a long, glorious history of cultural diversity and independent businesses. A bustling hive of activity from morning till night, Brick Lane is worth the visit just to soak up the atmosphere of a characterful street that’s maintained its unique identity even in the face of rapid modernisation across the city.
From food stalls to markets, restaurants to historic pubs and shops, there’s plenty to do and see in the area. But when it comes to food, Brick Lane is perhaps most famous for one particular cuisine…
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What’s Brick Lane Famous For?
Before we begin, it might be worthwhile addressing why Brick Lane is the longstanding London attraction that it is. Located in the borough of Tower Hamlets, in London’s East End, the street traces its humble origins to the 15th century when it was the site of brick and tile manufacture.
The first developments on the pathway to the Brick Lane we know today could be said to begin in the 17th century when the Brick Lane Market and a brewery were established. In the 17th century, Brick Lane also experienced its first wave of immigration, French Huguenots (Protestants fleeing religious persecution).
The Huguenots were the first in a long line of immigrant communities to bring their unique cultures to Brick Lane. In the 19th century, an Irish wave followed the tragedy of the Potato Famine. Ashkenazi Jews arrived shortly after, fleeing pogroms in the Russian Empire.
Finally, in the 20th century, many Bangladeshis would make Brick Lane their home (the Bangladeshi influence has even led to the area being called Bangla Town).
And this melting pot of cultures is the foundation of Brick Lane today. The eclecticism of the area’s shops, markets, cafes, pubs, and restaurants showcases the diversity of the local community. A visit to Brick Lane is a visit to an authentic London.
Bengal Village
The first contender for the best Indian restaurant on Brick Lane is the well-known Bengal Village. A firm favourite with Eastenders for many years, Bengal Village is a family-run curry house revered for its consistency.
Having won numerous awards, including the Brick Lane Curry Festival award twice, food critics have sung Bengal Village’s praises on the pages of The Guardian, the Daily Telegraph, and the London Evening Standard.
Sourcing their ingredients fresh daily, Bengal Village is dedicated to preparing healthy, hearty meals.
For something a little different, try their Shatkora Lamb. Shatkora is a bitter citrus fruit from the Sylhet region of Bangladesh, not dissimilar to a grapefruit. This dish packs a citrusy push that combines well with the tender meat.
Elsewhere on the menu, you’ll find a range of classic dishes done remarkably well — there’s a reason why the Bengal Village has remained a popular choice since its opening in 1991!
Sheba, Brick Lane
Another establishment that confidently boasts of being Brick Lane’s best Indian, Sheba, has been in business since 1974. And in all fairness, they do have a solid claim to being Brick Lane’s best Indian restaurant.
After all, loyal patrons have been dining out in the restaurant for almost 50 years.
Through countless refurbishments and menu overalls, one thing has remained a constant: the exceptional quality of the food. Standout dishes include a delightful chital kolta Banla curry and a warming lamb noorani.
You can’t really go wrong in this classic Brick Lane establishment.
Aladin
Third on our list of best Indians on Brick Lane is Aladin. Included on a list of the world’s best curry houses by the BBC, Aladin is big on atmosphere.
Just take a look at Aladin’s Gallery, and you’ll find an array of A-list celebrities who have been drawn to Aladin’s for their classy setting and top-notch food. From Anthony Joshua to Edgar Davids, Jon Snow to Dermot O’Leary, countless famous faces have walked through Aladin’s doors.
The well-filled menu is sure to get your belly rumbling, with a beautiful selection of Bangladeshi, Indian, and Pakistani dishes available.
Please note, that Aladin is not licensed, though you can bring your own alcohol, and there’s no service charge for corkage.
The Famous Curry Bazaar
Another Brick Lane Indian restaurant and, you guessed it, another establishment claiming to be the area’s very best!
One thing is sure about Brick Lane: the competition between curry houses keeps the quality off the scale. Yes, with around 23 curry houses located in a relatively small district of London, Brick Lane offers more choices for tasty Indian cuisine than just about anywhere else.
The Famous Curry Bazaar is another restaurant with a stellar reputation popular with celebrities. But when you’re not keeping your eyes open for spotting celebrities, you’ll be browsing their range of classic Indian dishes and struggling to make up your mind.
Never fear, The Famous Curry Bazaar offers daily chef’s specials, which are definitely worth your time!
The Monsoon
Our final choice is The Monsoon. Established by Shams Ud Din in 1996, The Monsoon is all about championing the artistry of traditional Bangladeshi cooking.
Contrary to our earlier choices, The Monsoon offers fewer classic dishes and places more of a focus on contemporary Bangladeshi cuisine.
Explore the world of Bangladeshi food by region — The Monsoon offers diners a true culinary journey. And once you’ve made the trip, we’re certain you’ll want to return.
So, Who Takes the Crown?
And the winner is…
No, we can’t do it. Brick Lane’s magic lies in the bag of delights it offers visitors. The food scene in London’s East End is vibrant and getting more exciting every day.
Our advice when you’re in Brick Lane and looking for the best Indian restaurant? Follow your nose.
This brings a close to this blog edition, but if we’ve inspired you to get out and explore foodie London, please have a browse of our London Food Tours.
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