8 Countries Where Indian Food Is Surprisingly Easy To Find Abroad

One of the biggest concerns for many Indian travellers heading abroad is food. While trying new cuisines can be exciting, sometimes nothing feels as comforting as a plate of dal, a hot roti, or a spicy biryani. The good news is that Indian food has travelled far and wide, carried lovingly by our community and welcomed by locals across the world. In some destinations, you will find Indian restaurants on every corner, while in others, small family-run restaurants will surprise you with authentic flavours. If you are planning a holiday or a work trip, you do not have to worry about missing home. Here are eight countries where finding Indian food is surprisingly easy.

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How Indian Food Reaches Every Corner Of The Globe

Indian cuisine has travelled with its people. From early migration to the modern IT boom, Indians have carried their flavours wherever they have gone. Spices, curries, and breads adapt beautifully to local tastes, which is why Indian restaurants thrive everywhere, from Tokyo alleyways to Caribbean beaches. This mix of tradition and adaptation keeps Indian food alive across borders and makes it easier than ever for travellers to find comfort on their plates.

8 Countries Where Indian Food Is Surprisingly Easy To Find:

1. United Kingdom

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The UK is practically the second home of Indian food, as seen on multiple Instagram reels. From London's Brick Lane to Birmingham's renowned curry houses, you will find a diverse range of dining options, from high-end Michelin-starred Indian restaurants to humble takeaway establishments serving butter chicken with chips. Chicken Tikka Masala is famously called Britain's national dish. Indian street food has also made its way into food markets. Even for vegetarians, there is no shortage of dosas, chaats, and paneer curries.

2. Singapore

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Singapore's large Indian community makes it a paradise for Indian food lovers. Head to Little India, where fragrant spice markets lead you to restaurants serving biryanis, parathas, and South Indian thalis. Even hawker centres offer cheap yet authentic meals. Key highlights:

• South Indian breakfast: idlis, vadas, and dosas

• Biryanis and curries reminiscent of Chennai and Hyderabad

• Street food-style chaat and pani puri stalls

3. Canada

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Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have a large Indian population, making Canada a hub for Indian flavours. Options include:

• Punjabi dhabas along Ontario highways

• Fusion restaurants offering butter chicken poutine

• Indian groceries stocked with atta, masalas, and ready-to-cook meals
  The cultural diversity of Canada allows travellers to enjoy both traditional and creative Indian cuisine.

4. United States

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Indian food in the US is both traditional and trendy. Cities like New York, San Francisco, and Houston offer:

• Authentic regional Indian cuisines: Goan curries, Gujarati snacks, Chettinad meals

• Modern fusion dishes: curry-flavoured ramen bowls, naan tacos

• Popular lunch buffets for corporate and student crowds
  This combination ensures both nostalgia and novelty for Indian food lovers.

5. Australia 

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Sydney and Melbourne are hotspots for Indian cuisine. Highlights include:

• Casual butter chicken outlets near universities

• Fine-dining restaurants featuring regional Indian delicacies

• Street markets with Indian food stalls
  Indian food in Australia has adapted to local tastes, including creative toppings and fusion dishes, yet still retains authentic flavours.

6. United Arab Emirates

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Dubai and Abu Dhabi feel like an extension of India when it comes to cuisine. You can find:

• South Indian restaurants serving idlis in the early morning

• Lavish Mughlai buffets in premium hotels

• Food court counters with curries, biryanis, and chaats
  The large Indian community ensures that Indian food is accessible, affordable, and authentic throughout the UAE.

7. South Africa

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Indian flavours have been part of South Africa's culinary landscape for centuries. Key experiences include:

• Durban's Bunny Chow: a hollowed-out loaf stuffed with spicy curry

• Fusion of Indian and African flavours

• Fragrant biryanis and spicy curries
  Indian cuisine in South Africa is both preserved and creatively reinvented, offering a unique food journey.

8. Japan

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Japan may not be the first place that comes to mind for Indian food, but curry has gained popularity. Highlights include:

• Indian restaurants in Tokyo and Osaka run by Indian chefs

• Casual restaurants offering naan-and-curry sets

• Japanese-style curries infused with Indian spices
  While flavours may be adjusted, the warmth and essence of Indian spices remain intact.

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How to Recognise Authentic Indian Food Abroad

Spotting authentic Indian food abroad can be tricky. Look for:

• Restaurants run by Indian chefs

• Menus featuring regional specialities

• Freshly made rotis and house-made chutneys

• Ghee-rich curries and traditional spice blends
  Avoid overly simplified menus that serve generic “curry rice” as these often miss the true depth of Indian cuisine.

Regional Indian Cuisines to Try in Each Country

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Trying regional dishes enhances your experience abroad. Suggestions:

• UK: Punjabi curries, Gujarati thalis

• Singapore and UAE: Chettinad curries, South Indian meals

• North America: Street food-inspired chaat and tandoori dishes

• Australia and Japan: Mix of North and South Indian flavours with fusion twists

Indian Desserts and Sweets Abroad

Indian desserts are often overlooked but widely available abroad. Popular options:

• Gulab jamun and rasgulla

• Jalebi and kheer

• Fusion desserts incorporating local ingredients
  Trying sweets abroad adds a sweet ending to the journey of Indian cuisine overseas.

Tips To Find Indian Food Abroad

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If you are travelling and unsure where to look, these tips help:

• Visit Little India neighbourhoods in cities like Singapore, London, and Kuala Lumpur

• Use apps such as Uber Eats, Deliveroo, or Zomato International

• Connect with local Indian student associations or cultural groups

• Search for Indian grocery stores, which often have food counters

• Check TripAdvisor and Google reviews for authentic restaurant recommendations

Budgeting For Indian Meals Abroad

Eating out abroad can be more expensive than in India. Typical costs:

• Budget options: ₹500–₹700 per meal at small restaurants or thali joints

• Mid-range: ₹1,000–₹1,500 per person

• Fine dining: ₹2,500 and above for a three-course Indian meal
  Carrying ready-to-eat packets or instant mixes from India can save costs on long stays.

Vegetarian And Vegan Indian Food Options Abroad

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Indian cuisine is rich in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Countries like Singapore, UAE, Canada, and Australia have restaurants dedicated to vegetarian Indian food. Jain options are available in cities with large Indian populations.

Best Time To Travel For Food Lovers

Timing your trip can enhance your Indian food experience abroad:

• UK: Diwali fairs in London and Leicester

• US: Indian Independence Day food events in New York and New Jersey

• Singapore: Diwali (October–November) in Little India

• UAE: Eid and Diwali special thalis and festive menus

• Canada & Australia: Summer multicultural food festivals with Indian stalls

When you travel to these countries, the comforting flavours of home are never far away. Authentic Indian food, from main courses to desserts, is waiting for you at every turn.