Important Indian Dining Etiquettes You Need to Be Aware Of

SUHEL AHMED • 17 February 2022

It is always interesting to learn about different cultures and traditions, especially if they’re as rich as that of Indians. 


Like most people who enjoy Indian cuisine, you probably frequent restaurants like Tower Tandoori for the exquisite food. But have you ever stopped to think of how it would be to observe Indian dining etiquettes? 


Well, if you need to brush up your knowledge of Indian dining etiquette or you’re learning it for the first time, this post is for you as the best restaurant in London shares with you the essential things you need to know before and during dining:


Wash and Dry Your Hands Before and After the Meal


The first thing you need to know is to wash and dry your hands before and after the meal. This is important because it shows you have respect for the food, the people who cooked it, and those eating it.


If you are not sure where to wash your hands, the best way is to ask any staff member.


All you’ve got to do is wash your hands with warm water and soap. You should also dry your hands with a paper towel.


Food Is Served All at the Same Time


If you are at an Indian restaurant in London, you will notice that the food is served all at the same time.


This is important because it shows your respect for the chef and for the other diners who are eating similar dishes as you.


You should also be ready to begin eating when everyone else has already started.


You Should Only Eat with Your Right Hand


Some people tend to use their left hand to eat because they are not used to eating with their right hand.


This is not correct when you eat Indian food no matter where you are because the left hand is used for personal hygiene and is therefore considered dirty.


Never use your left hand to eat or touch any other person when eating – not only is it rude, it is considered downright nasty.


Sharing Is Encouraged But Nothing from Your Own Plate


If you want to share any food with another diner, that is fine because it is encouraged. However, you should only take food from your plate, and you should be careful not to serve food directly from your plate to another person’s plate.


It is common courtesy to pass the serving plate to the person you are serving or ask a staff member to pass the plate to them.


There Should Be No Leftovers on the Plate


When you are finished with a dish, you should not leave any food on your plate. Any leftover food is considered an insult to the chef.


If you are at an Indian restaurant in London, you will notice that when you ask for a doggy bag, you’ll be given a small plastic bag to put the leftovers in.


This is because, in Indian culture, you are expected to clean your plate. This is a sign of wealth and prosperity.


Conclusion


There are more often than not several things we take for granted when dining at an Indian restaurant. One of them is dining etiquette.


However, it is important to learn the dining etiquette in an Indian restaurant, especially if you want to be invited to a real Indian wedding or any other Indian-related gathering.


The best thing to do when you dine in the best Indian restaurant in London is to observe the others and ask questions when in doubt. This way, you will learn the dining etiquette in a jiffy.


Tower Tandoori is the
best Indian restaurant in London that has been serving authentic Indian cuisine since 1978. Check our extensive menu today and order online or visit us for a truly memorable culinary experience!

Indian Meal
18 January 2026
Small touches, fresh cooking, and steady service can help you spot the best Indian restaurant near London Bridge; here's what really stands out.
Indian Buffet
11 January 2026
Learn how to spot the best Indian buffet in London with tips on variety, warmth, and freshness to make your next visit around London Bridge worthwhile.
 Authentic Indian Dish
4 January 2026
From warming spices to slow-crafted sauces, Authentic Indian Dishes near London Bridge bring comfort, depth, and tradition to every bite. Read on!
Indian restaurant
28 December 2025
From Tower Bridge to your table, enjoy timeless flavour at a tandoori Indian restaurant that's earned a global reputation right here in London Bridge.
London Bridge
21 December 2025
Looking for an affordable Indian restaurant in London for a cosy family meal? Enjoy comforting dishes and a relaxed vibe near Tower Bridge this winter.
Indian restaurant
14 December 2025
Time Out shines a light on an Indian restaurant near Tower Bridge that blends tradition, warmth and flavour in the heart of London Bridge.
TripAdvisor Restaurant
8 December 2025
Voted #9 in the world, this Tower Bridge Indian restaurant offers warm service, tandoori favourites, and a cosy family feel in the heart of London Bridge.
Tandoori Dishes
7 December 2025
Explore the finest Tandoori Indian Restaurant experience at Tower Tandoori. Discover top dishes, including Tandoori Chicken and Lamb Seekh Kebab.
Modern Indian Dining
30 November 2025
Experience a modern Indian restaurant in London Bridge. Enjoy a fusion of authentic flavours, inviting ambience, and cultural connections at Tower Tandoori.
Indian Cooking
23 November 2025
Discover tips for balancing spices, managing cooking times, and choosing fresh ingredients from Indian food stores in London for flawless dishes.