You must keep a few things in mind while ordering Indian takeaways. Well, with Chicken Tikka Masala being the UK's national dish today, this advice might sound odd.
But again, there’s a way to enjoy the Indian dishes to the fullest. A wrong approach may not only reduce the taste before halfway through a delicious Indian meal but also kill the urge for a next time try-out.
If you want to make the most of your Indian takeaway order, our brilliant tips can certainly help. Learn them so each Indian dish you try makes every bite memorable.
What Is an Indian Takeaway Order?
If you’re new to ordering Indian food or wondering what an Indian takeaway is, here’s a quick overview.
An Indian takeaway order is when you choose freshly prepared Indian dishes from an authentic Indian restaurant for delivery or collection. These meals are designed to retain their aroma, warmth and traditional flavours from the kitchen to your table.
From spicy curries to low-calorie take-out food, each order brings a taste of India straight to your home.
5 Essential Things to Keep in Mind
If you’re of Indian descent and haven’t lived in India, chances are you may be unsure how to order a takeaway properly. The same goes for anyone in the UK who loves Indian cuisine but isn’t familiar with its nuances.
Indian food represents flavour, spice, and heritage -but it can also come with shocks of heat if not chosen wisely. To enjoy a balanced meal, here’s your takeaway guide for restaurants and customers alike:
1. Select a Proper Restaurant
Your Indian takeaway journey starts with choosing the right restaurant near you. Selecting a trusted Indian kitchen takeaway ensures authentic flavours and consistent quality.
Check top delivery platforms for reviews and ratings to find authentic Indian restaurants offering your favourite dishes. For example, Mumbai to London Café in London is renowned for its best Indian orders, authentic spices, and excellent service.
Also, note the cuisine type -North Indian or South Indian -on restaurant menus. This helps you match your taste and dietary preferences perfectly.
Explore our Indian Takeaway Guide: Best Dishes to Order for more insight into restaurant selection.
2. Strike a Balance Between Taste and Healthiness
Balancing taste and health is essential when ordering Indian food. Indian dishes are bursting with flavour, but mindful ordering can make your meal both satisfying and nutritious.
Try ordering roti instead of naan or pairing your curry with basmati rice for a lighter choice. Go for dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala or Saag Paneer -low-calorie Indian take-out food options rich in flavour but not overly heavy.
The key is to choose dishes based on your taste and health preferences so your meal feels balanced, not overwhelming.
3. Consider Spice Level and Portion Sizes
If you aren’t used to red-hot spiciness, you better be very specific about ordering an Indian takeaway. Intense spiciness is one of the highlights of Indian dishes, especially curries or chicken masala dishes.
However, you can reduce the spice level by mentioning your preference while ordering food online. For example, you can mention whether you want the dishes light-heated, high-heated, or medium-heated.
Another aspect to consider is portion sizes. Be sure of the serving size. Although most Indian foods are shareable, it’s best to know in advance for a proper meal with your loved ones.
4. Check Delivery Timing and Packaging Options
Since Indian cuisines rule the takeaway orders in London, there will be high traffic in delivery. Hence, order in advance during peak hours, especially during weekends and festivals. Pick the restaurant closer to your locality to avoid unnecessary delays or excuses.
In terms of packaging, see which restaurants provide smart packaging. Check the reviews on delivery apps and websites about the freshness and intactness of food. Look for insulated packaging that maintains the proper food temperature from the kitchen to your door.
5. Look out for Discounts and Special Offers
Indian takeaway deals are always appealing, especially when you order frequently. Many restaurants offer exclusive Indian restaurant deals through ChefOnline and other delivery platforms.
For example, Village Tandoori in East Dulwich often gives discounts on larger orders. Some places even offer special codes or loyalty offers.
Finding the right Indian takeaway deal can make your experience both tasty and affordable.
Some Practical Tips You Should Follow
Apart from the basic guidelines, the following are a few practical tips that may help you choose the right Indian dish for a takeaway order:
1. Choose Your Indian Dish Wisely
Like choosing the right restaurant, choosing the right Indian dish for your takeaway order is equally essential. Remember, not every Indian restaurant in London employs chefs based on their cultural background.
Let’s say a Punjabi chef makes the famous South Indian idli and sambar; there’s a chance of the lack of flavour it’s known for. So, check with the restaurant’s speciality to order authentic Indian dishes you’re craving.
2. Waiter’s Recommendation May Help
Sometimes, no matter how awkward it feels, you must break the shell and ask the waiter what’s cooking. Many servers or waiters have been working in Indian restaurants for many years. So they might know what’s best for your takeaway.
Make polite inquiries about what’s special for the day in Indian cuisine or what most people love to eat. You may share your diet preference. Once satisfied with the waiter’s information, try some of the dishes the waiter reccomends.
3. What’s Hot on Social Media?
Checking social media platforms and top food delivery websites or apps can never go wrong when deciding what to eat from an Indian cuisine. In the food universe, trending dishes are always on top of the feeds.
For popular Indian takeaways near you, check their Facebook or Instagram pages to find the trending or most reviewed dishes.
Search by dish names, such as Chicken Tikka Masala, Rogan Josh, Tandoori Grill, etc., and check online which restaurant makes it the best. Besides, you can ask a friend or colleague to know what’s the talk of the town in food hubs.
4. Use Hands (Mostly) to Enjoy Indian Yumminess
To make the most of your Indian takeaway dishes, eat with your hands. You can’t have a wholesome experience by eating those delicious Indian dishes with utensils. Most Indians don’t use them.
Imagine cutting a piece of butter with a knife, using a fork to dip it into the masala chicken, and putting it in your mouth. It feels good, not great and yummy. Try it with your hand; it’s tastier and more fulfilling.
Best Indian Orders to Try from Authentic Restaurants
If you’re looking for recommendations, start with some timeless classics that travel well as takeaways:
- Chicken Tikka Masala – creamy, mildly spiced, and Britain’s favourite.
- Paneer Butter Masala – perfect for vegetarians who love rich flavours.
- Lamb Rogan Josh – deep, aromatic, and satisfying.
- Tandoori Chicken – smoky and ideal for sharing.
- Chole Masala – a hearty chickpea curry, great for spice lovers.
These are some of the best Indian orders to experience the diversity of Indian cuisine at home.
Wrapping up
To summarise, Indian foods are diverse, delicious, and deeply cultural. But making the most of your Indian takeaway means knowing your preferences, choosing authentic restaurants, and understanding what to order.
Follow these guidelines and practical tips to turn every Indian takeaway into an authentic restaurant experience.
If you’re already a passionate Indian food lover, you’ll know exactly what we mean -and if not, your next order might just turn you into one.
