A Family-Friendly Foodie Experience: Dining at Indian City, London

A Memorable Family Trip to London

One of the best family meals out we’ve ever had was during our short break in London at the end of May, coinciding with the school holidays. London is a city that never fails to impress—from its historic landmarks and bustling streets to the variety of world-class food on offer. After a long day exploring, sightseeing, and soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, we found ourselves searching for somewhere to enjoy a proper family meal near our hotel.

That’s when we discovered Indian City, an Indian restaurant near Blackfriars and St. Paul’s Cathedral. From the outside, it didn’t look particularly striking. It’s a single-fronted restaurant with an old-style wooden frame, almost easy to walk past if you weren’t paying attention. But as the old saying goes, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.”

And how true that turned out to be.

First Impressions: Warmth and Welcoming Atmosphere

The moment we stepped through the door, the restaurant’s charm became clear. The warm and cozy decor immediately lifted our spirits, creating an inviting atmosphere. For a family dining out in London after a long day, that first impression really matters—and Indian City didn’t disappoint.

The staff greeted us with genuine smiles and attentive service, helping us settle in comfortably. It wasn’t just about eating; it felt like being welcomed into someone’s home. For families like ours, this kind of atmosphere makes all the difference.

Exploring the Indian City Menu

Indian cuisine is all about variety, and the À la Carte menu at Indian City had plenty of options to tempt us. With so many classic Indian dishes available, we decided to order a mix of mains, sides, and breads to share—perfect for family-style dining where everyone can try a bit of everything.

Bengal Fish Bhuna: A Star of the Meal

Our first choice was the Bengal Fish Bhuna. This dish stood out not only for its flavour but also for the memories it evoked. The rich blend of spices combined with tender pieces of fish created a dish layered with flavour. Every bite was warming, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. For me, it was especially nostalgic, bringing back memories of time spent in Bangladesh and enjoying authentic home-style curries.

Comforting Bombay Aloo

Next, we ordered Bombay Aloo, a much-loved side dish of spiced potatoes. Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, this dish was the ultimate comfort food. Simple yet packed with flavour, it paired wonderfully with the main curries and reminded us why potato-based dishes are always a crowd-pleaser for families.

Saag Paneer: Creamy and Delicious

Our vegetarian side dish choice was Saag Paneer, featuring creamy spinach cooked with soft, perfectly cut paneer cubes. Paneer is always a favourite in our household, and this dish didn’t disappoint. It was rich, nutritious, and balanced beautifully against the spicier flavours of the fish bhuna and dhal.

Tarka Dhal: A Family Favourite

Another highlight of the evening was the Tarka Dhal. Lentils cooked to perfection with garlic, cumin, and other fragrant spices made this dish hearty and comforting. Dhal is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and it’s always a safe, healthy option for family dining. Even the kids enjoyed it!

Rice and Bread Selection

No Indian meal feels complete without rice and bread. We ordered both keema rice and plain boiled rice. The keema rice was fragrant and savoury, filled with the subtle flavours of spiced minced lamb. Since our eldest son particularly loves keema rice, we requested for it to be made mild—and the kitchen happily obliged. This flexibility made the meal much more enjoyable for our family.

To go alongside, we ordered garlic naan and roti. The naan was buttery, warm, and wonderfully aromatic, while the roti provided a lighter option—perfect for scooping up all those delicious curries and sides.

Drinks to Match the Meal

To complement the meal, I went for a refreshing lemon and lime mojito—a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and minty freshness. My husband chose a classic orange juice, simple yet refreshing, and our eldest son enjoyed a fizzy Coca-Cola, which paired well with the spiced dishes.

A Sweet Ending for the Kids

To our delight, our son was offered a complimentary ice cream, which made the evening even more special for him. It’s these small touches of hospitality that make dining experiences memorable.

Why Indian City Stands Out

What really sets Indian City apart from other restaurants in London is the combination of excellent food, warm atmosphere, and attentive service. Each dish was prepared with care and authenticity, and the staff ensured we felt comfortable and well looked after throughout our meal.

For families, dining out can sometimes feel challenging—finding a place that balances quality food with a child-friendly approach isn’t always easy. But Indian City managed it effortlessly, making it one of the highlights of our London trip.

Perfect Location: Near Blackfriars and St Paul’s Cathedral

Another reason this restaurant deserves a mention is its fantastic location. If you’re visiting London and exploring areas like St. Paul’s Cathedral, Blackfriars Bridge, or the Tate Modern, Indian City is the perfect spot for a family meal. It’s easy to get to, tucked away just enough to feel like a hidden gem, but close enough to London’s attractions to fit neatly into a day out.

A Family Dining Experience Worth Repeating

As we left the restaurant that evening, our hearts and stomachs were full. We couldn’t stop reminiscing about the flavours we’d just enjoyed together as a family. The meal was more than just food—it was an experience, a memory we’ll carry with us.

We’ve eaten at many restaurants during family breaks, but this one truly stood out. From start to finish, everything was just right: the food, the service, the atmosphere. Without doubt, Indian City has earned a place on our list of favourite family-friendly restaurants in London.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Indian City

If you’re ever in central London and looking for a family-friendly restaurant near St. Paul’s Cathedral or Blackfriars, I can wholeheartedly recommend Indian City. It’s a hidden gem that combines authentic Indian flavours with a warm, welcoming environment that’s perfect for families, couples, and groups alike.

Whether you’re craving traditional curries, delicious vegetarian options, or freshly baked naan, you’ll find something to love here. And with attentive staff ready to adjust spice levels or recommend dishes to suit your tastes, it’s the kind of place where every diner feels valued.

For us, it was one of the best dining experiences of our London trip, and we’re already looking forward to returning on our next visit. If you love Indian food—or if you’re simply looking for a memorable meal in London—you won’t be disappointed.