Where to Savor the Most Authentic Butter Chicken in the City

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a dish that embodies the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. Its combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato gravy, and aromatic spices has made it a staple in homes and restaurants alike. If you're in the city and craving a plate of this iconic dish, you're in luck! London is home to some of the best Indian restaurants, each offering its unique take on butter chicken. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the dish, finding the most authentic butter chicken can be an exciting adventure. Let's explore where you can savor the most authentic butter chicken in the city.

1. Dishoom – A Bombay-Inspired Butter Chicken

Dishoom is one of London's most beloved Indian restaurants, offering a vibrant atmosphere that channels the spirit of Bombay’s Irani cafés. Known for their exceptional take on classic food recipes, their butter chicken is a must-try. The dish features perfectly cooked chicken bathed in a rich, buttery tomato sauce with just the right balance of spices. It's a comforting and authentic interpretation that transports you straight to India. Dishoom’s version stays true to traditional methods, making it a great place to start your quest for the perfect butter chicken.

2. Gymkhana – An Elegant Twist on Tradition

If you're looking for a luxurious dining experience paired with the flavors of authentic Indian cuisine, Gymkhana in Mayfair is your go-to destination. Known for its contemporary take on traditional Indian dishes, Gymkhana’s butter chicken stands out for its depth of flavor. The dish is delicately spiced, rich in texture, and served in an elegant setting, making it perfect for a special night out. If you appreciate the art of fine dining with a touch of Indian heritage, Gymkhana is an excellent choice for your butter chicken cravings.

3. Moti Mahal – The Best Butter Chicken in London

Moti Mahal, located in Covent Garden, is renowned for offering some of the best butter chicken in London. This iconic restaurant has built its reputation around its exceptional butter chicken, which combines perfectly cooked chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. With flavors that are both bold and comforting, Moti Mahal offers a dish that captures the true essence of Indian cuisine. Whether you're a regular customer or a first-time visitor, Moti Mahal is a must-visit for those in search of authentic and unforgettable butter chicken.

4. Indian Accent – A Contemporary Take on Butter Chicken

Indian Accent, with its elegant interior and innovative menu, brings a modern twist to classic Indian dishes, and its butter chicken is no exception. While the restaurant stays true to traditional flavors, it also adds a contemporary flair, elevating the dish with an exquisite balance of spices and creaminess. The result is a butter chicken that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique. If you're looking for a restaurant that mixes creativity with authenticity, Indian Accent is definitely worth a visit.

5. The Cinnamon Club – Butter Chicken Fit for Royalty

Situated in the heart of Westminster, The Cinnamon Club offers an upscale, modern take on Indian cuisine. The restaurant’s butter chicken is made with the finest ingredients, creating a rich, buttery dish that's both indulgent and flavorful. The combination of smooth, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken has earned this restaurant a reputation as one of the top spots for butter chicken in the city. With its regal ambiance and impeccable service, dining at The Cinnamon Club feels like a royal experience.

6. Tandoor Chop House – A Rustic Approach to Butter Chicken

For those seeking a more rustic and authentic setting, Tandoor Chop House offers a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere where you can savor traditional Indian flavors. The restaurant specializes in tandoori cooking, and their butter chicken is prepared with the perfect combination of smoky flavors from the tandoor and the rich, creamy tomato gravy. The result is a butter chicken that’s comforting, smoky, and packed with flavor. For a no-fuss, authentic experience, Tandoor Chop House is a great choice.

7. Rasa Samudra – A Southern Twist on Butter Chicken

Rasa Samudra is a unique destination for those who want to experience the flavors of Southern India. This restaurant offers a coastal variation of the traditional butter chicken, infusing the dish with lighter, fresher flavors compared to the heavier North Indian versions. While it may not be the typical butter chicken you’re used to, Rasa Samudra’s take on the dish is an exciting twist that’s definitely worth exploring. The combination of traditional and regional flavors makes it an excellent choice for those looking to try something different while still enjoying the essence of butter chicken.

In conclusion, London offers a wealth of options for those searching for authentic butter chicken. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy tandoori joint or a fine dining experience, there’s a spot for everyone. From the traditional flavors at Moti Mahal to the innovative takes at Indian Accent, these restaurants offer some of the most flavorful and creamy butter chicken in the city.