Best Takeaways London: A Complete Guide to the Capital’s Top Spots for a Delicious Meal at Home

London’s culinary scene is renowned worldwide, boasting a melting pot of diverse cuisines and innovative dishes. While dining out in the capital is undoubtedly a treat, sometimes there is nothing better than enjoying a sumptuous meal in the comfort of your own home.

Fortunately, London’s takeaway scene is thriving, offering an impressive array of options that cater to every palate and craving. In this guide, we explore the best takeaways London has to offer, highlighting everything from beloved local favourites to global delicacies.

The Rise of Takeaways in London

The popularity of takeaways in London has grown exponentially over the past decade. With the rise of food delivery apps and an increasing demand for convenient dining options, more restaurants are now offering takeaway services alongside their dine-in menus. This has not only made high-quality food more accessible but has also allowed Londoners to enjoy gourmet meals without stepping outside their front door.

Best Takeaways for Traditional British Fare

1. Poppies Fish & Chips

For those craving classic British comfort food, Poppies is a must-try. With locations in Spitalfields and Soho, Poppies offers award-winning fish and chips that are freshly prepared and sustainably sourced. Their generous portions and crispy batter make it one of the best fish and chip takeaways in London.

2. Mother Clucker

If you fancy fried chicken with a twist, Mother Clucker delivers some of the juiciest, tea-brined, buttermilk-soaked chicken in the city. Their loaded fries and mac & cheese sides make for an indulgent takeaway feast.

Best Asian Takeaways in London

1. Bao

Known for its pillowy Taiwanese buns and modern interpretations of classic street food, Bao offers an exceptional takeaway experience. Their signature buns filled with braised pork or fried chicken, alongside small plates like soy-glazed potatoes, are consistently praised.

2. Dishoom

Inspired by the Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom has become a London institution. Their takeaway menu includes fragrant biryanis, warming curries, and iconic bacon naan rolls for breakfast. Each dish is thoughtfully packaged to ensure the flavours remain intact during transit.

Best Indian Takeaways

1. Gymkhana

Holding a Michelin star, Gymkhana is a top choice for Indian cuisine lovers seeking an upscale takeaway. Their signature wild muntjac biryani and butter chicken have won numerous accolades, making it a special option for at-home dining.

2. Tayyabs

Located in Whitechapel, Tayyabs has been serving authentic Punjabi dishes since 1972. Their marinated lamb chops and kebabs are especially popular, offering bold flavours and excellent value for money.

Best Italian Takeaways

1. Franco Manca

Celebrated for its sourdough pizzas, Franco Manca offers one of the best Italian takeaway options in London. Their pizzas are made using slow-rising dough and organic toppings, resulting in a light yet satisfying meal.

2. Padella

Famous for its fresh, hand-rolled pasta, Padella has made its much-loved dishes available for takeaway. Their pici cacio e pepe and tagliarini with nduja are standouts, bringing authentic Italian flavours straight to your home.

Best Middle Eastern Takeaways

1. Honey & Co.

This Fitzrovia gem offers Middle Eastern delights such as chicken shawarma, lamb kofta, and meze platters. Their cakes and pastries are also not to be missed, providing a sweet end to any takeaway meal.

2. The Lebanese Bakery

Known for its traditional manousheh (Lebanese flatbread), this bakery delivers a variety of toppings and mezze options, perfect for a light yet flavourful meal.

Vegan and Vegetarian Takeaway Options

1. Mildreds

A pioneer in London’s vegetarian scene, Mildreds offers a wide-ranging menu inspired by global cuisines. Their vegan burgers, Sri Lankan curries, and gyoza dumplings are especially popular among plant-based diners.

2. By Chloe

This New York export has taken London by storm with its 100% vegan menu. From classic burgers to creative salads and decadent desserts, By Chloe proves that vegan food can be both indulgent and satisfying.

Best Dessert Takeaways

1. Chin Chin Labs

Famous for their nitro ice cream and gooey hot chocolate, Chin Chin Labs offers desserts that are both innovative and delicious. Their ice cream pints and brownies are perfect for an indulgent night in.

2. Crosstown Doughnuts

For a sweet treat, Crosstown’s handcrafted doughnuts are a top choice. With flavours ranging from classic cinnamon sugar to matcha tea and yuzu, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Supporting Local and Independent Businesses

One of the joys of ordering takeaway in London is the opportunity to support independent eateries and small businesses. Many neighbourhood favourites offer takeaway services, allowing you to discover hidden gems in your local area. Apps such as Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat make it easier than ever to explore these options, but ordering directly from the restaurant whenever possible is a great way to ensure they receive the maximum benefit.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re craving a comforting curry, a freshly baked pizza, or a decadent dessert, London’s takeaway scene has something to suit every taste and mood. The sheer diversity and quality of options available mean you can enjoy a world-class dining experience without leaving your home.