5 Indian Dining Etiquette Dos and Don'ts to Remember
16 September 2021
If you’re going out for dinner and looking for some Indian food in London, then you’re in for a journey full of flavour and tradition. Some of the best Indian cuisine restaurants can be found in the city, where you can enjoy a hearty meal made from the finest ingredients. But before you can sit down and eat, there are some dos and don’ts you need to remember first. Here are some tips in dining etiquette you should remember when dining out at a traditional restaurant serving Indian food or visiting an Indian household.
Use of Cutlery
While most Indian restaurants allow the use of cutlery when eating, don’t expect this to be the norm since people in India actually prefer to eat using their fingers. In a typical Indian household, you won’t see any spoons or forks on their table since the only eating instrument they require is their right hand. Even knives aren’t encouraged since Indian food is usually served in bite-sized pieces. If the dish is made up of liquid and sauces, they’re usually served in little cups, so you won’t really need a spoon. Also, since flatbreads like naan are a staple in Indian cuisine, tearing a piece of it and folding it serves as a makeshift spoon that you can use to scoop up sauces from the plate.
Lefties Aren’t Allowed
Continuing the discussion on using hands when eating, Indians generally prefer the right hand to use for eating. If you’re a left-handed person, you don’t really have any choice since using the left hand is considered unclean and offensive. In fact, when eating, the left hand must remain clean at all times as it is used for drinking or passing dishes.
Sharing Food
In Indian culture, eating is a sacred and intimate affair. They highly encourage sharing of food with others, making visitors feel like they’re part of the family. Even if you’re dining at a restaurant and you ordered separate dishes for you and your companions, it is customary to share your dish with other people. But keep in mind to share only from the serving dish or bowl and not from your own plate. Similarly, do not, in any circumstance, take food from someone else’s plate as it’s considered unhygienic and offensive.
Don’t Leave any Leftover Food
When dining in a traditional Indian household or even at a restaurant, you must finish whatever you bring to your plate. Leftover food on one’s plant is severely frowned upon in Indian culture. While it’s encouraged to share food and taste all the different dishes, you’re not required to do so. So if you’re feeling extremely full already, make sure you finish what food you have on your plate and respectfully decline the offer of tasting the other dishes served. So eat your food at a medium pace and always be mindful of how full you are so you won’t have any leftovers.
Paying Compliments
If you’ve finished your food a little early, you must remain seated until the host or the eldest person at the table finishes their food. Don’t get up from the table when someone is still eating. It’s also customary to positively compliment your host for the food. Even when eating at a restaurant, it wouldn’t hurt to pay your compliments to the chef and the servers.
Conclusion
Eating the Indian way is both fun and fascinating as you get to experience a culture that may be entirely new and different for you. Whenever you dine out or visit the house of an Indian friend, it’s best to know the proper dining etiquette so you’d have a great time eating traditional Indian cuisine.
Tower Tandoori has been serving Londoners in Tower Bridge Road for more than 40 years. With our delectable and authentic Indian-inspired dishes, you’ll have a completely different experience dining at our restaurant. If you want to taste food that reflects India’s cultural diversity, visit our London tandoori
restaurant today!
Discover the diverse tastes of traditional Indian food at Tower Tandoori, from North's creamy curries to South's spicy coconut delights near London Bridge.
Explore the Curry House at London Bridge for authentic flavours. Learn to choose the right dishes for a balanced meal at Tower Tandoori.
Discover solutions for perfecting your curry at home. Learn how to fix common issues and be inspired by Tower Tandoori, a top curry restaurant in London.
Explore Tandoori restaurants in London and discover the rich flavours and traditions. Visit Tower Tandoori for an unforgettable dining experience. Read on!
Explore the delicious variety of Indian dishes available for takeaway. Enjoy tandoori takeaway from Tower Tandoori for authentic flavours at home.
Exploring the vibrant array of dining options near Tower Bridge can be a rewarding adventure. Whether you're a London local or just passing through, discovering where to find the best Indian food adds a delightful culinary twist to your experience. With so much to choose from, it’s always helpful to know a spot that offers rich flavours and a variety of options to suit every palette. Right around the corner from London Bridge, you'll find a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. Finding an amazing Indian restaurant close to London Bridge combines convenience with the joy of indulging in authentic, mouth-watering dishes. This area offers easy access to delightful eateries, perfect for an afternoon meal after sightseeing or a cosy dinner as the city lights illuminate the river. Whether you crave something familiar like a Chicken Tikka Masala or wish to discover new spices and flavours, there is something here for everyone. Enjoy the beauty of Tower Bridge, and then dive into the aromatic world of Indian cuisine nearby. A Culinary Journey at Tower Tandoori Tower Tandoori holds a special place as one of the oldest Indian restaurants in London. Its rich history and dedication to serving authentic Indian food make it a must-visit destination. With decades of experience, the restaurant has perfected its offerings to provide guests with an authentic taste of India. Imagine stepping into a restaurant where every detail connects you to the culinary traditions of a far-off land; that's the kind of experience Tower Tandoori strives to offer its patrons. So, what makes Tower Tandoori stand out? Firstly, the restaurant mixes time-honoured cooking methods with contemporary tastes. The skilled chefs blend spices to create complex, flavourful dishes that cater to both traditional and modern palates. Here are some highlights that draw frequent patrons back: - Warm Ambiance: Step into an inviting atmosphere where hospitality and comfort blend seamlessly. The decor and friendly service create an overall experience that complements the meal. - Authentic Flavours: The menu faithfully represents classic Indian dishes, offering a wide selection for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian guests. - Prime Location: Situated close to Tower Bridge, the restaurant offers not just culinary delights but also the charm of dining near one of London's iconic landmarks. This local favourite, marked by its history and warm service, promises an unforgettable dining experience amid the bustling energy of London Bridge. Whether you're seeking a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, this spot invites you to unwind and savour the diverse flavours of Indian cuisine. Must-Try Dishes at Tower Tandoori When dining at Tower Tandoori, the menu offers a range of dishes to suit every taste, making it difficult to choose just one. However, some classics must not be missed. The Chicken Tikka Masala is a favourite, known for its creamy sauce packed with the right mix of spices and tender chicken pieces. Lamb Rogan Josh is another standout, savouring the nuanced layers of flavour enhanced by the slow-cooked lamb. For those eager to expand their culinary experience, the Goan Fish Curry offers a refreshing yet flavourful choice. This dish brings the coastal touch of Goa to your plate, with a perfect blend of coconut, tamarind, and fresh spices that create a tangy and aromatic masterpiece. Venturing further, the Paneer Makhani is a delightful vegetarian dish, offering a rich and buttery sauce with soft paneer cubes, a firm favourite amongst plant-based selections. Perfect Pairings: Drinks and Sides Pairing the right drink or side with your meal can elevate the experience significantly. Indian flavours often call for a refreshing beverage to balance the spices. Mango lassi, with its creamy texture and sweet flavour, complements many dishes beautifully, providing a cooling effect. Alternatively, a traditional masala chai rounds off the meal with its aromatic spices and rich taste. The sides are equally important in rounding out your meal. Garlic naan, with its buttery and aromatic scent, works perfectly when used to scoop up curry, adding a garlicky edge to each bite. Additionally, basmati rice is a staple, its long grains perfectly capturing the sauce and acting as the ideal base for rich curry dishes. Including these pairings ensures a complete and satisfying dining experience. Creating a Memorable Dining Experience To make the most of your visit to Tower Tandoori, timing and seating can enhance your outing. Visiting during quieter hours allows for a relaxed meal where you can truly savour every bite. Opt for seating with a view if possible, where you can enjoy glimpses of bustling city life or the serene flow of the Thames. The ambiance inside plays a big role, with the decor providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for both intimate dinners and lively group celebrations. Whether it's a casual lunch or a special dinner, the ambience adds a layer of charm. Conversation flows easily in such a comfortable setting, where every detail has been considered to make guests feel at ease. Special occasions seem more special and ordinary evenings transform into something memorable, as the friendly staff takes care of your every need. Savour the Best Flavours Near Tower Bridge Exploring the culinary delights around Tower Bridge is an experience not to be missed, especially when it includes authentic Indian food at one of the city's iconic spots. From the diversity of dishes on offer to the thought put into every element of the meal, there’s an adventure to be had in every mouthful. The unique blend of history, taste, and friendly service creates an environment where every meal becomes part of an unforgettable journey. Dining near the River Thames offers not just a feast for the palate but a visual treat as well. As you savour the range of vibrant dishes, take a moment to appreciate the bustling backdrop that completes your dining experience. There’s something truly special about finding a place that fulfills both culinary cravings and offers a memorable evening out, right in the heart of London. After exploring the flavours and wonderful atmosphere, you might still crave a deeper culinary experience at Tower Tandoori. Dive into the diverse offerings of an Indian restaurant at Tower Bridge with our À La Carte Menu, crafted to thrill your taste buds and capture the essence of authentic Indian cuisine. Discover new favourites or relive classic delights as you enjoy a memorable meal in the heart of London.
Discover how to enjoy the best Indian buffet in London at Tower Tandoori. Find tips for portion control, sharing meals, and savouring leftovers.
Explore the reasons behind variations in Indian food tandoori flavours, from regional spice blends to local London preferences and ingredient quality.
Discover top tips for savouring a curry house at London Bridge. Explore diverse menus, perfect pairings, and the unique ambiance at Tower Tandoori.
Learn to master tandoori dishes at home with Tower Tandoori's guide. Discover marination techniques and fixing tips for that restaurant-quality taste.
