Dining’s new transatlantic spice routes

Last year was all about New York restaurants landing in London (Carbone, Dante at Claridge’s and Tobi Masa). But this year the momentum seems to be heading in the opposite direction, and London’s best Indian restaurants are taking note. “We had noticed that around 30% of our guests were visiting from America,” says Karam Sethi, one of the three sibling founders of London’s standout Indian institution Gymkhana, which has two Michelin stars. “New York already has an exciting Indian food movement. We wanted to bring something distinct to the fold.”

Sethi’s second Ambassadors Clubhouse opened in Manhattan’s NoMad in the same week its London counterpart won its first star. Highlights from London making the menu include the butter chicken chops and the tomato-tinted Tamatar Martini, which has the kick of a full-blown Bloody Mary. In addition, and fresh for the States, is a remarkable seven-layered samosa.

Others have big plans for the Big Apple too. In early 2027, Dishoom will open its first restaurant outside the UK. And, having served its breakfast bacon-and-egg naans at the Meatpacking District’s A-list favourite Pastis in 2024, it’s clear there’s a precedent. “Tables were fully booked within five minutes and more than 20,000 people joined the waitlist,” says founder Kavi Thakrar.

Kricket founders Rik Campbell and Will Bowlby also experienced the city’s craving for spice first-hand when they took over Mexican restaurant Comal in October 2025. “I love the idea of picking up Kricket Soho and dropping it in Greenwich Village,” says Campbell, who is still on the hunt for the perfect space. “The timing feels right to jump on the gravy train.”