Scotland's best curry restaurants unveiled as 16 spots make UK top 100
Scotland is home to some of the best curry restaurants in the UK, according to the Asian Catering Federation's latest list of the top 100 curry houses.
Released at the launch of the Official Curry Awards at the House of Lords, the ranking is based on public votes and recommendations from a panel of expert judges.
Curry has long been a staple of British dining culture, with almost 10,000 Indian restaurants spread across the country.
The newly released Guide celebrates the best of the best, and several Scottish venues have been recognised for their authenticity, innovation and culinary excellence.
1. Dishoom – Edinburgh
Dishoom Edinburgh is a stylish Bombay-inspired café paying tribute to the Irani cafés once central to Mumbai's culture.
Serving authentic dishes from breakfast to late evening, its menu includes classic comfort foods and signature cocktails such as the Horniman's Old Fashioned. The venue also promotes social impact initiatives while offering a vibrant and welcoming dining experience.
Dishoom is opening its first Glasgow café on Friday, August 29, bringing its iconic dishes to the city.
2. Ignite – Edinburgh
Located in Haymarket, Ignite combines Bengali and North Indian cuisine with fine dining.
Led by chef Asad Miah and owner Mohammed Khan, it's known for dishes like the fruity chicken tikka massallam and a Tia Maria-infused lamb pasanda. Since opening in 2002, the restaurant has gained a reputation for innovation, service and celebrity clientele.
3. Cilantro – Edinburgh
Cilantro is a recent addition to Leith Walk, offering a cosy atmosphere and traditional Indian dishes with modern flair.
With dedicated vegetarian options and warm service, the restaurant has quickly become a local favourite, praised for its neat presentation, flavourful food and intimate setting ideal for casual or romantic meals.
4. Mother India Café – Glasgow
Founded in 1990, Mother India is one of Glasgow's best-known Indian restaurant groups.
Its flagship location on Westminster Terrace spans three distinct dining areas and continues to draw regulars and celebrity guests. Renowned for its authentic Indian home-style cooking, the restaurant has also released a cookbook and remains a cornerstone of Glasgow's food scene.
5. Dhoom – Dunfermline
Dhoom brings the flavours and energy of Punjabi street food to Fife. Known for immersive dining, sizzling tandoors and lively décor, the restaurant's philosophy to 'Eat Drink Indian' captures the spirit of Punjab. It is recognised as Scotland's top destination for traditional Punjabi cuisine.
6. Desi Dhaba Chaiwala – Glasgow
Desi Dhaba Chaiwala offers authentic Indian comfort food and chai in a casual Glasgow setting.
Catering to dine-in, takeaway and delivery, it focuses on classic street food and snacks from across India. The venue has earned a strong following for its no-frills approach to genuine desi flavours.
7. Charcoals – Glasgow
Charcoals is known for blending homestyle service with classic Indian dishes.
Customers are welcomed as family, and the owner has personally overseen the interior's transformation to reflect this ethos. Charcoals uses quality ingredients and time-tested recipes, offering both dine-in and digital delivery services.
8. Tabla – Perth
Opened in 2009 by Swarna and Praveen Kumar, Tabla delivers handmade Indian meals using local Scottish produce and spices sourced from the owners' family farm in southern India.
The menu includes tandoori grills, vegetarian specials, biryanis and a wide drinks list. Tabla is guided by the Indian philosophy that 'the guest is god'.
9. Spice Tandoori – Elgin
Located in a former church, Spice Tandoori offers a unique dining atmosphere in Elgin.
The interiors feature lowered ceilings and historic charm. Known for vibrant flavours, courteous staff and authentic Indian cuisine, it remains a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
10. Light of Bengal – Aberdeen
Light of Bengal is Aberdeen's top Indian restaurant, serving everything from quick meals to romantic dinners. It offers both dine-in and home delivery, with a broad menu and online ordering. The venue is a longstanding favourite for high-quality Indian cuisine in the Granite City.
11. Bo'ness Spice Fakrik – Bo'ness
Bo'ness Spice Fakrik focuses on authentic regional dishes from both India and Bangladesh.
Using fresh ingredients and house-ground spices, all meals are made to order. With options for both dine-in and takeaway, the restaurant has become known for its rich flavours and traditional preparation methods.
12. Panache – Elgin
Panache in Elgin is an award-winning restaurant specialising in Eastern Indian and Bengali cuisine.
With an extensive menu and strong delivery service, it offers authentic food made with care and attention to detail. The team prides itself on friendly service and bold, aromatic dishes.
13. Spice of India – Dufftown
Spice of India in Dufftown is led by a team of chefs who emphasise quality and precision, preparing each dish from scratch with fresh ingredients. The restaurant upholds high allergen safety standards and is known for its warm, attentive service. It offers a relaxed atmosphere for guests seeking a true Indian dining experience.
14. Sapporo Teppanyaki – Glasgow
Although primarily a Japanese restaurant, Sapporo Teppanyaki has earned a reputation in Glasgow for blending traditional Japanese cooking with western-style flair.
The restaurant serves authentic Japanese dishes such as Katsu chicken curry with miso soup, pickles, and California rolls.
Its interactive teppanyaki displays and sushi bar make it a popular venue for both food and entertainment. The restaurant is celebrated for its quality ingredients and theatrical dining experience.
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15. Pomelo – Edinburgh
Pomelo Café offers seasonal and experimental Chinese cuisine in a small, intimate setting in Edinburgh.
The daily-changing menu allows chefs to be creative, and the restaurant has gained popularity for its bold, modern approach. Private bookings are available, with a strict cancellation policy in place.
16. Thairiffic – Glasgow
Thairiffic in Glasgow serves up modern interpretations of traditional Thai dishes in a relaxed and stylish environment.
The restaurant serves classic Thai curries like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Red Curry.
With options for adjusting spice levels and offering non-spicy alternatives, the menu also includes popular items such as Pad Cha, crispy sea bass with mango salad and classic Kapao. The venue appeals to diners seeking authentic Thai food with contemporary flair.
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