Every country has its own unique food culture. No exception to the fact is India, whose rich culinary culture has been shaped by various influences from different parts of the world. Though Indian food has managed to stay true to its roots, it‘s not averse to adapting elements from across the globe. For this reason, there are many Indian restaurants all over the world, including in the UK. Naturally, you need to be aware of certain mistakes to avoid so you won't look like a buffoon if you're eating in one.

This article lists down some of the most common mistakes often made in Indian restaurants. Read on below to get started.

#1 - Not Eating with Your Bare Hands

This is one of the most common mistakes and can be pretty shocking to the uninitiated. You may notice some people in the restaurant eating with their hands. Some may even come up to you and ask you politely to use your hands too. This is one practice you should never miss out on, as it's a part of Indian culture.

#2 - Thinking Everything Is Curry

One of the most distinctive aspects of Indian food is spices, especially curry. However, that being said, it doesn't mean everything is curry. Curry is a sauce and not a method of cooking. Many dishes can be fried, grilled or even plain. So, if you're ordering dishes, make sure you ask if they are going to be cooked in a curry or not.

#3 - Asking for “Naan Bread”

Naan is one of the most popular and well-known Indian bread. However, in many Indian restaurants, it is referred to as naan bread even though it’s genuine bread. In this case, bread can refer to any flatbread. Similarly, some restaurants also refer to paratha as bread. So, when you're ordering food, ask for roti, naan or paratha instead of simply calling them bread.

#4 - Eating the Sugar-Coated Fennel Seeds before the Meal

In most Indian restaurants, you would be given some fennel seeds before your meal. Your server will ask if you want some, and you will probably say yes. However, this is not something to be eaten before the meal. This tradition stems from Indian culture and is intended to help digestion because it's meant to be eaten after your meal.

#5 - Ordering Just One Food

It is normal to have a starter, a main course, and a kind of dessert in many Western countries. In India, it's prevalent to have several different types of food on your plate simultaneously. Preferring just one entrée for your meal is considered quite strange. So, if you want to eat Indian food, make sure you order at least two or three types of food on your plate.

#6 - Ordering “Chai Tea”

Chai tea—or simply “tea”—is one of the most well-known drinks in India. But, if you ask for chai tea in an Indian restaurant, the server will probably have no idea what you are talking about. This is because “chai tea” refers to the masala chai drink. So, if you want to order chai, just call it that.

#7 - Ordering the Same Chicken Tikka Masala Every Single Time

Chicken tikka masala is one of the most popular dishes from the Indian kitchen, and it's almost synonymous with Indian food. However, if you want to try other Indian dishes, refrain from ordering this dish every single time. While it's not exactly a bad thing, it's quite a boring choice if you're a long time customer of Indian food. You should try other dishes and order the chicken tikka masala only once in a while.

Conclusion

Sometimes, we all make mistakes. If you're eating in an Indian restaurant for the first time, there's a big chance you will commit at least one of the mistakes outlined above. Don't worry, though. Everybody does this. You just have to be aware of it so you won't make the same mistake again.

If you’re looking for Indian restaurants around London Bridge, look no further than Tower Tandoori! We have a wide variety of dishes available even for those with dietary needs, such as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free—all of which are guaranteed to leave your tastebuds wanting more. Contact us today to place an order!