Curry
"Curry is often called London's 'true national dish' due to British-Indian fusion history. Dishes range from creamy tikka masala (invented in Britain) to fiery vindaloo. Brick Lane is the famous curry hub but has become touristy. The best authentic curry is found in neighborhoods like Tooting ('Curry Corridor'), Whitechapel, and Southall, where South Asian communities live."
Logistics
Affordable
Vibe
Flavorful, diverse
Duration
1-2 hours
Best For
Dinner
The Backstory
Indian restaurants exploded in London post-WWII when immigrants from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India opened curry houses. Chicken Tikka Masala was allegedly invented in Glasgow in the 1970s to suit British tastes. Curry houses became Britain's most popular restaurant type by the 1990s.
Local Secret
"Avoid Brick Lane's aggressive touts—restaurants there are mediocre and overpriced. Tooting has the best authentic South Indian and Sri Lankan food. For top-quality Pakistani-style, go to Whitechapel. Order naan bread, not rice, for mopping up sauce."