+44 20 7265 0745+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Sun
5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Mon
5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Tue
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Wed
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Thu
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Fri
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
Sat
5:30 PM - 11:00 PM
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.5
Travelers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
Learn More
PRICE RANGE
$12.00 – $25.00
CUISINES
Indian, Asian, Balti, Bangladeshi
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
meals, features
Does this restaurant offer highchairs for toddlers?
Details
About
Come and experience fine dining in one of the best Indian restaurant near Tower Bridge, London. The Empress Indian restaurant offers you a superb range of great tasting Indian food with a modern twist in comfortable, contemporary and a stylish surrounding. Our restaurant is situated walking distance from Tower Bridge. Our aim is as it always has been, to give all our guests the best possible dining experience from start to finish. Our latest menu has a larger array of new choices of delicious authentic Indian dishes, that has been cooked selected to delight your taste buds.With Our fresh and fabulous signature dishes, The Empress has already become hot favourite in the heart of East London.
PRICE RANGE
$12.00 – $25.00
CUISINES
Indian, Asian, Balti, Bangladeshi
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
FEATURES
Delivery, Takeout, Reservations, Seating, Highchairs Available, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Gift Cards Available
Contribute
4.5
876 reviews
Excellent
584
Very good
187
Average
40
Poor
22
Terrible
43
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
This service may contain translations powered by Google. Google disclaims all warranties related to the translations, express or implied, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and noninfringement.
Julie J
2 contributions
Jan 2025 • friends
The owner and server were so friendly and attentive. The food was delicious and it is one of the few authentic places left in London to get great Indian food! But beware- when the menu or the server says "a little spicy", it's actually MORE than a little spicy! ;-)
Written January 8, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cheri B
2 contributions
Jun 2024 • family
Service and flavor were both top shelf at The Empress. This was a first visit for us, but we can't wait to return! Two members of our party knew exactly what they wanted and loved every bite of the Lamb Biryani and the Chicken Vindaloo. Upon recommendation, i ordered the Rajshahi and some garlic naan. Delicious!
Written July 8, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John F
94 contributions
Oct 2024 • solo
I had spent the first 8 hours travelling from Glasgow to the NFL game at White Hart Lane and after only stadium food I decided that on my return to my hotel I'd find an Indian restaurant to enjoy some proper food in.
I found it.
Despite it being just me in my NFL shirt I got a table immediately and was well looked after.
The food was well cooked - to me it seemed like home cooking - and spiced but not burn your mouth hot. Which is what I love - to be able to taste the food rather than have a Chilli mouth !
I love trying new dishes (for me) and had the Muguch Tawa. Delicious.
It felt so good just to sit, eat, listen to the authentic background music - not intrusive - and chill.
Next time I'm in that part if London ill be back. The only downside? I left my NFL programme on the seat I think.
Written October 14, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KoliShropshire
43 contributions
Feb 2023 • none
We had papadums with pickles to start, and I was impressed by the pickle selection including something spicy with onion. My main was a chicken madras curry, which would have been even better had it benefited from more spicy seasoning. The chef managed to produce our food reasonably quickly despite the fact that there was a party of around 16 people there at the same time. The maître d'hôtel was warm and friendly.
Written February 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
foz i
Hi Kooli many thanks for your genuine review, I am really pleased that you enjoyed our food and attentive service, please note for the future that all dishes are cooked to order and we can alter spice levels up or down depending on your requirements, please ask us to do so
Written March 6, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ivor J
London30 contributions
Jan 2023 • friends
In the past I must have eaten at hundreds of different Indian restaurants, in many countries, but none of these compares to the Empress for consistent quality and welcoming ambiance. It has now become my regular Indian.
It's conveniently situated in Leman Street, near Aldgate, not far from buses and tubes.
The quality of the dishes is amazing. On my last visit I had my standard dish, chicken Vindaloo with peas pilau and keema naan. The balance of the spices in the Vindaloo was perfect. Just the right heat and full of flavour. Portions were big too. Quite simply my best Vindaloo ever. I'm working my way through the wide -ranging menu, and so far every dish has been spot -on.
Babu and his staff are helpful, friendly and create a convivial family atmosphere. Babu in particular loves to welcome and chat with all his guests and makes everyone feel special.
And where else can you sample an Indian shepherd's pie, which is even better that its British counterpart? Vegan version too. Highly recommend. Six stars******
Written January 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
foz i
Hi thank you for visiting our restaurant and genuine revere
really pleased to hear that you very much enjoyed our food and service
The Indian shepherds pie is one of our exclusive dishes that is enjoyed by a wide range of customers, glad you enjoyed it too
also many thanks for your positive review and we look forward to seeing you again soon
Written March 6, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pravin L
San Francisco5 contributions
Jun 2023 • family
Our family had a delicious dinner at The Empress! Indian food is known for its diverse flavors and spices, so it's wonderful that we enjoyed the taste. It was fantastic that the staff provided great service, as excellent service can enhance the overall dining experience. Indian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, vibrant spices, and diverse range of dishes. It offers a wide variety of options, from flavorful curries to delicious biryanis, delectable street food, and mouthwatering desserts. Whether you tried classic dishes like butter chicken, samosas, or masala dosa, or explored regional specialties, Indian food has something to offer for every palate. Great place to try.
Written July 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
foz islam
thank you sir for visiting our restaurant with your nice family I am glad to learn that you enjoyed our food and service.
Written August 1, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amie N
3 contributions
Aug 2022 • none
Our family stumbled upon this restaurant during our recent stay in London. The experience was exceptional. Our server, Niayz, was so helpful in personalizing our experience and helping us each order items that suited our personal tastes. The result-- three amazing courses of food that far exceeded our expectations. Each of us were thrilled with our meals. And that is saying a lot when traveling with teens! Niayz did a great job at providing attentive and personalized service. We felt the value for the food was very good.
Written August 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
foz i
thank you for visiting our restaurant good to learn that you enjoyed our food and service & we look forward to serving you again soon
Written March 6, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ivan l
38 contributions
Apr 2024 • family
We went there as a family of 9. Excellent service, very good advice, attentive and adapted. Accustomed to Indian cuisine in France, we discovered lots of new, tasty dishes. I recommend without reservations
Written April 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mimi-Tayto
17 contributions
Mar 2022 • couples
Arrived 5 mins early for an 8.30 booking to be told our table was not ready. Family at our table that were still eating. However, restaurant was practically empty bar 2 other occupied tables. We were ignored for about 10 mins, put sitting at another table to wait until this family finished their meal, judging by food on table, this would be a while. Could not understand why they could not offer us one of the many empty tables. The waiter then approached us and asked if we wanted to order a drink while waiting for this family to finish. Really! No offer of taking our jackets or making us feel welcome. Needless to say, we left.
Written March 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Petrus R
Helsinki207 contributions
May 2024 • friends
We went to the Empress for dinner with a bunch of mates. For many it actually was their first time experiencing Indian food, and everyone loved it. We had popadons and chutneys for starters, which we rather expensive. The enjoyed a variety of main courses of the menu with various different sides. The prices of the main courses were very reasonable. Overall very enjoyable little restaurant, would definetly come here again!
Written May 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tablemiller
Coronado16 contributions
May 2024 • couples
Our first time at the Empress. My Wife does not like spicy food and was apprehensive. She came away very happy and enlightened. My selection, chicken filled w lamp and potatoes was superb. The restaurant is welcoming, the staff friendly and the food exceptional.
Written May 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rachel K
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • solo
Best dining experience in London, and that’s after trying the places the guidebooks say to go! Amazing service (a rarity in London)! And the food was great. I’m used to the more Americanized dishes, like Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken (both on the menu), but tried some new things.
The mixed appetizer was so good! The shrimp, chicken, and lamb were so nicely spiced and tender, and just the right amount for me to try but not fill up. The Cox Bazaar Crab was tender and crispy and the vegetables were so tasty and just the right consistency so they weren’t raw but also not mushy. The Cauliflower Bhaji was light and yummy and a great side for the heavier fried crab. The cheese naan was also light and yummy, and I’m looking forward to having the leftovers as a snack. And when I was leaving and said how great everything was, the owner(?) offered me a piece of Jalebi that he was snacking on. Such nice people, such great food, and such a treat!
The only con is that I went on my last night in London, so won’t have the chance to go back and try some of the dishes I saw other people get that looked and smelled amazing!
Written August 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
foz islam
Hi Thankyou for visiting our restaurant and your amazing review,
we always aim to provide excellent food with a high standard
of service then top it up with that little personal touch,
this should be provided as standard, to all our customers
Also Jalebi just tastes that kittle bit better when it is shared,
Written August 30, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
tracyjarratt
West Midlands21 contributions
Sep 2021 • none
Booked a weekend away and wanted a local restaurant for our first evening. After looking and reading reviews for The Empress we decided to book a table for Friday evening. We were greeted and welcomed by staff who then went through the menu and helped us choose a meal from the vast menu. The staff have good knowledge of what is nice and suitable for different palettes and we were not disappointed. Our meals came and they were delicious and perfect for both myself and my husband. We had plenty of food to eat in a nice restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere . We thoroughly enjoyed our evening and it was a good start to our weekend away. To finish off our evening as we left I was given a beautiful gift , this was a lovely touch and completely unexpected. I would definitely recommend this restaurant if you are in the area.
Written September 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maidmeirion
Brisbane41 contributions
Aug 2023 • couples
This restaurant is a hidden gem. We had looked around the area an read the reviews . The excellent reviews we’re spot on. For an entree we had King Prawn Butterfly (s). So nice not dried out but very moist. We tried the soft shell crab which was so tasty and the Salmon Korma which is Salmon cooked in the clay oven and re cooked in mild creamy sauce. The creamy sauce makes this dish. so nice. best meal we have had while here by a long shot. If you get the chance to visit The Empress do not miss it, you will not be disappointed.
Written August 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
foz islam
Hi,
thank you both for visiting our award winning restaurant
it ws an absolute pleasure to have served you both, i am very glad to learn that you thoroughly enjoyed our food and service
Written August 30, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sylvia S
3 contributions
Aug 2023 • friends
This was a restaurant that was used by colleagues regularly over 25 years ago when we all worked together in Royal Mint Court.
The management are still same, warm and friendly good humour.
The food was delicious and service excellent.
Very clean , hospitable environment.
So glad we had our reunion here, will come again 🙂
Written September 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Showing results 1-15 of 783
Related Stories
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Whitechapel
Whether you're here for its dynamic street life, world class galleries or famed curry houses, you're bound to be wowed by the uniquely cosmopolitan flavor of Whitechapel. Long gone are the days when Jack the Ripper stalked its streets. And despite his mysterious legacy bringing throngs of curiosity driven tour groups to its back alleys and otherwise serene garden squares, these days you're more likely to catch a cutting edge fashionista scurrying through its age old lanes than criminals of any sort.
Best nearby hotels
See all 
Best nearby restaurants
See all 
Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing