Spending hours in the kitchen preparing a roast dinner isn’t everyone’s dream way to celebrate.
It’s a tasking obligation that can often feel isolating, especially when you have family members visiting. Rather than being in the centre of everything, catching up with your loved ones… you are confined to watch over the turkey and ensure it doesn’t dry out.
That’s not the perfect use of this critical bonding time.
Unless you have the chance to pre-prepare the vegetables in the hectic run-up to the big day (which very few of us do), then you need to start considering alternatives for this upcoming year. Perhaps one that includes everyone in the festivities - catering to a variety of tastes and dietary requirements - without requiring a tonne of washing up once the day is complete.
This year, why not consider booking a table at an Indian restaurant on Christmas Day?
Top Indian Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in London
At this time of year, you probably assume that nothing is going to be open.
After all, there’s a very slim chance of finding a grocery store when you realised you’ve forgotten to buy a bag of potatoes - so why on earth would a restaurant be open?
Interestingly, the Christmas period is actually one of the busiest times of the year for Indian restaurants. Traditionally, Sikhs, Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, and Jains don’t recognise the 25th of December as a holy day and therefore are happy to serve up some delicious food to hungry customers.
From others who don’t celebrate to people who have found themselves alone, Indian restaurants open on Christmas Day have proven to be a safe and warm sanctuary for many. It isn’t too big of a leap, then, for you to consider organising an evening with your loved ones sharing traditional Indian dishes and filling yourself with curry.
1. Indian Restaurant Open on Christmas Day (North London)
When it comes to finding an Indian restaurant that’s open on Christmas Day near you, there’s no reason you should have to settle for anything less than the best.
Salaam Namaste is a beautiful restaurant tucked away in Bloomsbury, London that has some incredible reviews.
What’s more? They have an entire menu dedicated to the upcoming festive season where you can browse through Indian drinks and meals galore. If you really can’t decide because of just how much choice is available to you, the set courses might come in handy.
2. Indian Restaurant Open on Christmas Day (East London)
Why not treat yourself to truly authentic Indian food in a celebrated restaurant like the Udaya in East London? They’ve opened their doors for Christmas time and time again and currently show no sign of not doing so this year.
As a local favourite, this option is mostly known for its wonderful range of vegetarian and paleo-friendly Indian dishes.
From the memorable Anglo-Indian meals you’ll no doubt recognise, right through to the plates that originate directly from Keralan cuisine, this restaurant is sure to serve up an experience you won’t soon forget.
3. Indian Restaurant Open on Christmas Day (South London)
You can’t consider spending Christmas at an Indian restaurant without at least factoring in the Cinnamon Kitchen, which has a contemporary menu that even the little ones will love.
By adding their own unique twist to your favourite dishes, you’ll be able to go on a tour of some of the best traditional flavours out there.
However, be warned. This is a popular choice for anyone in South London, so you’ll want to consider booking soon. There are table options for families, couples, offices, and the solo diner.
4. Indian Restaurant Open on Christmas Day (West London)
Luxury. Bliss. Wonder.
That’s just three words many food critics have used to describe the Kahani Indian Restaurant in West London. It’s no wonder.
The chefs are famous for their skills, and the menu is considered a great option for anyone following the paleo diet. Due to their mission to revolutionise food, this restaurant promises a wonderful Christmas.
“Gone are the weighty, oppressive sauces, replaced with light dishes populated with grilled meats, fish and vegetables from the robata grill and tandoor.”
5. Indian Restaurant Open on Christmas Day (Central London)
Do you want to celebrate in style? If so, then the Benaras should be your go-to.
With its world-famous reputation and accompanying Michelin Stars, this restaurant offers Christmas Day specials that are beyond anything you could imagine.
You’ll be able to enjoy decadent and unforgettable food, alcohol, and service for a stress-free, joy-filled festive season.
The Best Indian Restaurants for Christmas - FAQs
When you’re a capable adult who has been asked to host your family’s Christmas party, it can feel a little overwhelming.
After all, you’re busy enough as it is and don’t really have the time to go food shopping, pick up the necessities, and stock up the cupboards. Why not eliminate that pressure (and the guilt that comes with saying no) by offering an alternative and visiting an Indian restaurant on Christmas?
- Are restaurants open on Christmas day?
Some are, yes - particularly those that serve food from a different culture. This includes Chinese and Indian restaurants, which are both very popular across the UK. If you don’t want to cook, consider booking a table or ordering a takeaway. - Will it be busy in the Indian restaurant on Christmas day?
Depending on your location the answer is most likely yes. For years, anyone who doesn’t celebrate Christmas has followed the tradition of treating themselves on Christmas day to a lovely meal out with their loved ones. - Do I need to book a restaurant for Christmas day?
Absolutely. While some venues may not expect many dine-in guests and forecast most of their trade to come through takeaways, plenty of people do go to restaurants on Christmas and your chosen location could fill up fast. - Where can I have Indian food for Christmas?
If you don’t feel like cooking at home, there are plenty of curry restaurants in London that’ll be happy to welcome your booking. Be sure to contact them in advance and let the venue know how many people to expect. If you want prompt service, you could consider ordering in advance, too.Indian Restaurants Open on Christmas Day Near You
There are so many reasons that people go to Indian restaurants on Christmas day.
Either they’ve lost a loved one in the last year and don’t like the thought of sitting home alone, or they just aren’t a fan of all the work associated with preparing a roast dinner.
Regardless of your motivation, there’s no reason you shouldn’t enjoy a tasty curry in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are booking a table for one or for ten, ChefOnline can assist you with finding Indian restaurants open on Christmas Day near you.
Our partnership with thousands of venues across the UK will allow you to look at options in your local area and have you ordering from an Indian restaurant in no time. Check out our website to learn more.
What are your plans for Christmas Day? Are you going to go to an Indian restaurant? Let us know in the comments below.
