Best Indian Restaurants in Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay has one of the best selections of Indian restaurants on the North East coast. Three established restaurants sit within walking distance of each other, each offering a distinct style of Indian dining. Whether you want award-winning authenticity, a seafront cocktail with your curry, or contemporary Bangladeshi cooking, there is a strong option in town.

Shikara

Shikara at 181 Whitley Road is widely regarded as the best Indian restaurant in Whitley Bay and has won awards for the quality of its cooking. The menu covers a wide range of authentic Indian dishes, including plenty of seafood and vegetarian options that go well beyond the standard curry house offering.

The food is flavoursome and the portions are generous — this is not a place that skimps on quality or quantity. The restaurant is a firm favourite with locals and can get busy at weekends, so booking ahead is recommended. The interior is stylish without being overdone, and the service is warm and attentive. Call 0191 252 5050 to book.

Best for: Award-winning, authentic Indian, strong seafood and vegetarian options.

Takdir

Takdir at 7-8 East Parade has been serving Whitley Bay for over 36 years. The restaurant sits right on the seafront, which makes it a particularly good choice on a summer evening — finish a walk along the promenade and sit down to a generous Indian meal with views out to sea.

The menu is huge, covering everything from traditional starters and tandoori dishes to house specials and biryanis. The decor is on the glamorous side, and the cocktail bar adds a touch of theatre. The Rahman family also operates Gulshan in Tynemouth, so the pedigree is strong. Open Monday to Sunday from 5pm. Call 0191 253 0236 to book.

Best for: Seafront location, over 36 years in Whitley Bay, cocktail bar, huge menu.

Shampan

Shampan at 185 Whitley Road is a contemporary Indian restaurant and cocktail lounge offering dishes from India, Punjab, and Bangladesh. The cooking is traditional in technique but presented with a modern touch, and the stylish interior gives the restaurant a more upmarket feel than the average curry house.

The menu is broad, covering tandoori grills, classic curries, biryanis, and a selection of chef's specials. The cocktail lounge is a nice addition if you want to start or end the evening with a drink. Open seven evenings a week from 5.30pm. Call 0191 251 8375 to book.

Best for: Contemporary Indian and Bangladeshi, cocktail lounge, Whitley Road.

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The quick comparison:

Shikara — the award-winning favourite, authentic Indian, Whitley Road Takdir — the seafront veteran (36+ years), cocktail bar, East Parade Shampan — the contemporary option, Indian and Bangladeshi, Whitley Road

All three restaurants offer both dine-in and takeaway. For more food options across all cuisines, see our guide to the best things to do in Whitley Bay.

Know another Indian restaurant in Whitley Bay we should add? Get in touch via our contact page.