London’s best Indian restaurants

This buzzy, raucous Whitechapel stalwart’s been going since 1972, and its popularity still hasn’t waned. The sizzling platters of spice-rubbed lamb chops are the stars of the show, but the side dishes – unctuous pumpkin masala, ghee-enriched dahl – are just as satisfying. Book ahead or sharpen your elbows: queues can stretch right around the restaurant, but they’re always worth it.

You could head to Gunpowder’s new branch by Tower Bridge for the tantalising small plates (crispy venison doughnuts, grilled mustard broccoli) that put the Spitalfields original on the culinary map. Those in the know come here for a Sunday roast instead. Rustle up a few friends to tackle the pork-shoulder vindaloo to share, generously served with the likes of okra fries and spiced soft-shell crab.

Decked out with a pool room and live sports screens, Brigadiers is a laid-back affair. Confidently charred and smoked on the barbecue, the food is punchy and boisterous. Carnivores rejoice: you’ll find everything from pork scratchings to bone marrow and goat chops on the menu. If you’re just here for a drink, there’s craft ale on tap, a whisky vending machine and irresistible bar bites to boot.

Like many success stories, intimate Soho spot Kricket started life as a pop-up in the cool enclave of Brixton. The menu changes regularly, showcasing market-fresh British produce in inventive sharing plates. Samphire pakoras, Keralan fried chicken and carrot halwa with a milk ice cream get our vote. And you can book, too, from four people for dinner – a rarity in the neighbourhood.