Where to go for the best Indian dishes in Edinburgh

Mother India’s Cafe prides itself on cracking ‘a twist on tapas’ – and we agree. With a menu of sumptuous sharing plates, you can easily whittle the day, or night, away – surrounded by loved ones, grazing on delicious platters. Mother India’s is nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and, embraced by iconic landmarks, it’s the perfect pit-stop after a long day on your feet. Share and savour its chana daal, okra and potatoes, and saag paneer to start; followed by ginger chicken and spinach, chicken tikka basil curry, and lamb saag – or chilli fish cakes and fish pakora. It’s a brightly modern, cosy and deliciously comfy dining experience.

Chaakoo on Lothian Road in Edinburgh is a great spot to experience Indian dishes inspired by the classic Bombay cafés of the 19th century. With a rich menu of both Irani grill dishes and traditional Indian specialties, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy curries or delicate tandoori options, Chaakoo’s relaxed yet stylish setting provides the perfect ambiance. Their thali options are particularly popular, offering a mix of small plates that let you enjoy a variety of tastes in one meal. And we can’t forget about their epic cocktail list, you simply go past a chai-tini at Chaakoo!

There’s no denying that Dishoom has garnered somewhat of a cult following – its restaurants nationwide attract queues of hungry visitors, desperate for a seat at the table; and kitchens across the world boast its cookbook. Edinburgh’s Dishoom is no exception. Nestled between Princes Street and Harvey Nic’s, it rubs its shoulders with giants – and quite rightly so. From bacon naan and chilli cheese toast for breakfast, to light roomali rolls and salad plates for lunch – finishing off with gunpowder potatoes, house black daal and chicken or mutton ruby paneer, Dishoom does not disappoint. Or, opt for its Edinburgh special salli boti: a Parsi classic of tender lamb and rich gravy, topped with crunchy salli crisp-chips. Room for dessert? Opt for Dishoom’s delectable, satin-smooth pistachio kulfi, washed down with a Dishoom IPA. You’re welcome.

Stepping into Prahna feels like stepping into another world, thanks to blossoming flowers adorning the grill’s ceiling. It’s mesmerising, calming and unique – quite like its cuisine. Thanks to serving fresh authentic Indian food with a Scottish twist, Prahna is much-loved in the capital by locals and tourists alike. Ideal for sharing with both family and friends, Prahna can be enjoyed all-day-long – from boozy breakfasts of desi omelettes and cheese masala toast with cocktails, to a unique take on afternoon tea, and candlelit monkfish, paneer or yam grill sharers with your favourite person. The sanskrit term ‘prana’ means breath, or life-giving force – and this restaurant really is a force for good that gives us life.

India is made of colourful, vibrant and aromatic street food stalls – making up the heady city in every sense: be it smell, sound, sight or taste. Edinburgh’s Tuk Tuk is no exception. Inspired by the streets of India, Tuk Tuk was founded in 2012, and is known for its eclectic and colourful but casual interiors, alongside perfect sharing plates (if you’re feeling kind…). Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and aromatic, authentic spices make it a pleasure to experience. Like its interiors, its menu is lively and quirky, too – we’d recommend the bhaji onion rings and Tuk Tuk samosas; its signature black lentil curry (also known as daal makhni) and roadside chicken curry (Tuk Tuk wallah staff curry), with a side of chutneys, chilli cheese naan and masala chips. Divine. There’s one on the Southside, nestled on Drummond Street, too – and both are BYOB.

Born as a 12ft mobile kitchen, chugging from events such as T in the Park, the Royal Highland Show and Fringe Festival, the family-run Pakora Bar has become so popular, it’s taken up a permanent residence in Edinburgh. Founded by three brothers local to Edinburgh, the siblings had a vision to bring their head chef’s (their mum’s!) pakora and curries to the capital city. The North Indian restaurant serves up its promise of feeding its loyal, hungry customers delicious Punjabi street food in a cheery, casual and cosy spot on Holyrood Road. Bite into fresh, steaming, deep-fried meat or veg pakora, paired with a variety of tangy dipping sauces before diving into the Bar’s popular creamy butter chicken – also known as murgh makhani – served with rice or fluffy naan… alongside a mango lassi, of course. What else?

With the word ‘Chaskaa’ coming from a Hindi word that symbolises an addictive taste, you’re in for a treat. Situated right next to King’s Theatre, the heart of a much-loved spot for tourists and locals alike – Chaskaa is ideal for both a weekday lunch, and a pre- or post-theatre treat. Often referred to as the ‘flag bearer’ of Indian food in Edinburgh, its decor is unique, while its food remains fresh, authentic and either locally-sourced in Scotland, or direct from India. Chaskaa’s chefs are dedicated to presenting you with a distinct mixture of spices and ingredients, transporting you straight to the heady, aromatic streets of India.  Fancy a night in, but don’t want to miss out? Chaskaa will hand-deliver your meal to your door as long as it’s within a walking mile – this includes homes in Morningside, Bruntfield, Princes Street, Grass Market, Murrayfield, Edinburgh Castle and the City Centre. We’d recommend the tandoori main – priced from £10.95 to £15.25, indulge in paneer tandoori, king prawn, monk fish, chutney lamb chop and more, served alongside salad, curry sauce and rice.