Padma Lakshmi Names Three Indian Restaurants She Favors Worldwide
Padma Lakshmi highlights three Indian restaurants she favors globally, from New York to London and Mumbai — read her picks and why they matter.
Ekta Mathew 
NEW YORK, July 1, 2026 — Celebrity chef and host Padma Lakshmi names three Indian restaurants across the globe that she favors for their cuisine, atmosphere and cultural significance.
In a recent conversation with media outlets, Lakshmi identified her favorite Indian dining spots in New York City, Mumbai and London, highlighting how each reflects different regional cooking traditions and culinary excellence. Lakshmi’s selections include a modern South Indian eatery in Manhattan, a beloved seafood institution in India and a Michelin-acclaimed classic in the U.K. capital.
Padma Lakshmi Highlights Favorite Indian Restaurants
Lakshmi singles out Semma in New York City’s West Village as one of her top global Indian restaurant picks. Led by Chef Vijay Kumar, it is known for refined interpretations of South Indian dishes such as dosa with lobster and lamb chops, along with creative beverage offerings that recall familiar flavors. Reservations are recommended for this Michelin-recognized restaurant.
In Mumbai, Lakshmi points to Trishna, an institution famed for its seafood preparations since 1991. She recommends dishes like crab and pomfret and suggests diners request milder spice levels, as the kitchen traditionally serves bold flavors. Trishna remains a draw for locals and visitors alike seeking classic Indian coastal fare.
For London, Lakshmi praises Gymkhana in Mayfair, a restaurant that celebrates North Indian cuisine in an elegant setting reminiscent of colonial-era hunting clubs. Its signature venison biryani and spice-forward plates illustrate the depth of Indian food culture celebrated in Britain’s dining scene. High demand means patrons should book well ahead.
Why Lakshmi’s Picks Matter
Lakshmi’s restaurant recommendations reflect her long engagement with global cuisines as a food host, author and cultural commentator. Each restaurant she names underscores how Indian culinary traditions continue to evolve and resonate internationally. Her choices span regional styles — from South Indian specialties to seafood classics and northern curries — illustrating the diversity within Indian cuisine.
While each establishment offers distinct experiences, they share a commitment to quality ingredients, technique and cultural heritage. Lakshmi’s global platform has drawn attention to how Indian cuisine can both honor tradition and innovate in contemporary dining.
More information about Indian cuisine and its regional diversity can be explored through Indian cuisine history and traditions.
Businesses monitoring hospitality expansion trends can also explore restaurant industry growth trends for 2026 to understand how regional food concepts are shaping dining markets.
