Reading has long been one of the best towns in the south of England for Indian food, with a diverse range of restaurants serving everything from refined Mughlai cuisine to fiery South Indian street food. We have narrowed it down to eight Indian restaurants that consistently impress, drawing on Google reviews, local word-of-mouth, and years of collective curry knowledge. Whether you want a blow-out banquet or a quick weeknight takeaway, these are the places to know.

1. House of Flavours

House of Flavours on Oxford Road has built a loyal following for its authentic North Indian and Punjabi cooking. The lamb karahi is a standout, slow-cooked with fresh tomatoes, ginger, and whole spices until it falls apart. Portions are generous and prices are very reasonable, with most mains between eight and twelve pounds. The restaurant is family-run and it shows in the warmth of service. If you want honest, home-style Indian cooking without pretension, this is the place to start your search for the best curry in Reading.

Address: 499 Oxford Road, Reading RG30 1HJ

2. Bhel Puri House

Bhel Puri House on Oxford Road is a Reading favourite for South Indian and street food-style dishes. The dosas are crispy and enormous, the bhel puri itself is perfectly balanced between sweet, sour, and spicy, and the vegetarian selection is one of the best in town. Prices are very affordable, with most dishes under eight pounds. It is a no-frills setting, but the food speaks for itself. Perfect for a quick, flavour-packed lunch. If you enjoy exploring Reading's food scene, this one should be on your list.

Address: 163 Oxford Road, Reading RG1 7UZ

3. Sapana

Sapana on Prospect Street is a Reading institution that has been serving traditional Indian and Nepalese food for years. The menu covers a wide range of regional dishes, from creamy butter chicken to fiery Nepali momos. The lunch deals are exceptional value, and the evening menu offers more elaborate options for those who want to explore. Staff are attentive and happy to recommend dishes based on your spice tolerance. A reliable choice for both takeaway and sit-down meals in central Reading.

Address: 52 Prospect Street, Reading RG1 7YB

4. Pepe Sale

Pepe Sale has carved out a niche on the Wokingham Road with its focus on Pakistani and Mughlai cuisine. The nihari is slow-cooked overnight and arrives rich, deeply spiced, and utterly satisfying. The grilled kebabs are another highlight, cooked over charcoal and served sizzling. The restaurant is popular with families and large groups, and the atmosphere is lively on weekends. Mains range from seven to fourteen pounds, offering strong value for the quality. One of Reading's most distinctive South Asian restaurants.

Address: 367 Wokingham Road, Reading RG6 7EH

5. Spice Oven

Spice Oven on Christchurch Road brings a modern touch to classic Indian dishes without losing authenticity. The prawn malai curry is a regular favourite, and the chef's specials often feature seasonal ingredients with creative spice combinations. The interior has been recently refreshed and feels contemporary and welcoming. It is a strong choice for a date night or a dinner with friends who appreciate thoughtful cooking. Most mains sit between ten and fifteen pounds. A cut above the average high-street Indian restaurant.

Address: 86 Christchurch Road, Reading RG2 7AZ

6. Eastern Eye

Eastern Eye on Gun Street is one of Reading's longest-running Indian restaurants and has maintained consistent quality through the years. The tandoori mixed grill is a crowd-pleaser, and the biryanis are fragrant and well-portioned. The restaurant offers a traditional dining experience with white tablecloths and attentive service. Prices are mid-range, and the early evening set menu offers good value. It is the kind of dependable local favourite that every town needs. A safe bet for anyone visiting Reading for the first time.

Address: 39 Gun Street, Reading RG1 2JR

7. Swadesh

Swadesh on Christchurch Road rounds out our list with consistently excellent Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine. The chef's signature dishes, including a slow-cooked lamb shank in aromatic spices, are worth the visit alone. The restaurant has a relaxed, welcoming feel, and the staff go out of their way to accommodate dietary requirements. Takeaway service is swift and reliable. Mains range from nine to fifteen pounds. A solid all-rounder that deserves more recognition among Reading's curry lovers.

Address: 97 Christchurch Road, Reading RG2 7AZ

8. The Coconut Tree

The Coconut Tree on King's Road offers something different from the traditional Indian restaurant experience. Specialising in Sri Lankan street food, the menu features sharing plates packed with bold, aromatic flavours. The devilled prawns and kottu roti are standout dishes, and the cocktail menu is designed to complement the spice-heavy food. The atmosphere is vibrant and modern, making it ideal for a night out with friends. Prices are moderate, with most sharing plates between seven and twelve pounds. For more dining options, see our guide to the best restaurants in Berkshire.

Address: 3 King's Road, Reading RG1 3AR

How We Chose These Indian Restaurants

Our picks are based on Google review scores, consistency of food quality over time, local reputation, and a desire to represent Reading's full range of Indian and South Asian cuisines. We considered everything from fine dining to casual street food spots to give a balanced and honest selection.

FAQ

What is the best Indian restaurant in Reading?

House of Flavours on Oxford Road is the locals' favourite for its authentic Punjabi dishes, generous portions, and warm family-run service. For something different, The Coconut Tree offers outstanding Sri Lankan street food.

Where is the cheapest Indian food in Reading?

Bhel Puri House on Oxford Road offers some of the most affordable Indian food in Reading, with most dishes under eight pounds. The dosas and street food platters are outstanding value for money.