Read all about the hottest new restaurant openings of the last six months.
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Nov
Cassette - WC2E
London
Taking over the site of Grind on Maiden Lane in Covent Garden, a Parisian-style bistro from the team behind Peckham favourite Levan. Expect a fresh take on Gallic classics, such as coq-au-vin jaune pie, grilled monkfish au poivre and a terrine of fromage de tête.
Koji Izakaya - BA1
Bath
On the site that was Roots Bath, RIP, what started as a 'restaurant within a restaurant' and a side-project by chef Joe Fowler has now taken over the whole property, with Roots closing on 31 October 2026. The new style is a complete break with the vegetarian format that it served previously, now drawing on British ingredients but treating them with Japanese technique and philosophy.
Oct
Cloth Cornhill, Simpson’s Tavern - EC3
British, Traditional
London
At last, someone has rescued the site of Simpsons Tavern, a City institution in a Dickensian back-alley, which originally dates from 1757. The team from Cloth (Joe Haynes and Ben Butterworth, plus chef Tom Hurst who has worked at Lasdun, Levan, and Brawn) relaunch it as a new sibling. Restoration work is planned but the team plan to keep the spirit of “debaucherous wine-fuelled lunches” alive. Someone in the City has to...
Sep
The Horses - EC1R
London
On a Clerkenwell corner, this traditional red-brick Victorian boozer spent most of its life as ‘The Coach & Horses’. The new name is part of a re-launch in September 2026 as part of the successful Public House Group, who started out at the The Pelican (see also) just a few years ago, and for whom this is now their most easterly outpost, with a menu focus on British seafood.
Pearl - W1K
London
Part of the Duke of Westminster’s Mayfair estate, Brown Hart Gardens sits just south of Selfridges and has been a large and quirky but rather underutilised open air space for decades, although an increasing number of initiatives have gradually made it more relvant. This latest September 2026 launch involves a takeover of the terraces and glazed café space, formerly run by Benugo, by the much posher The Beaumont, adjacent to the square. In keeping with the upgrade, the garden will be replanted; and the menu – under consultant exec chef Lisa Goodwin Allen – will also be much more luxurious, with breakfast items including filled croissants with lobster; and an all-day menu with crudo and caviar-topped chicken Milanese.
Kid - W1D
London
Sertaç Dirik – formerly of Dalston’s Mangal II and steeped in the heritage of modern Turkish cuisine in London – is in partnership with heavyweight restaurateur David Carter (of smash hits Oma, Smokestak and Manteca) at this September 2026 launch in the heart of Soho. Sertaç’s follow-up to his time at Mangal II has been long-anticipated by London’s fooderati, so if heritage is any guide, it’s one to watch closely for its mix of fire-driven cuisine from Central Anatolia, with dishes sourced with an eye on British seasonality.
Aug
Bar Caput - SK1
Stockport
Joshua Reed-Cooper and Mike Thomas have reformatted their former venture Cantaloupe as this new Roman-inspired drinking and dining concept with Roman street food dishes served alongside osteria-style items.
Cordelia's Mayfair - W1J
London
On the Mayfair site that was previously L’Atelier Robuchon (RIP) – this August 2026 launch is a live-fire steakhouse built around an open kitchen,with chef Jordi Sebastianelli (ex-Le Petit Beefbar) in charge of the grill. On the menu: dry-aged steaks from Galician, Italian, Finnish and British rare-breed cattle
Papa Dak - SE1
London
Woongchul Park, co-owner of nearby Sollip (see also, winner of Harden’s Best Newcomer of the Year in 2021) is breaking with his haute cuisine origins with the summer 2026 launch of this casual ‘KFC’ (‘Korean Fried Chicken’) concept (‘dak’ meaning chicken in Korean): an all-day dining venue in Southwark, whose stated aim is “big flavour in every bite – saucy, delicious and exactly what you want when those indulgent cravings hit”. Signature dishes include the ‘Korean Red’ (with a sticky, sweet and spicy glaze) and ‘Guinness Black’ (in homage to the Irish stout) as well as ‘so-tteok so-tteok’ skewers (so – sausage; tteok – rice cake).
Sael - B18
Birmingham
Set to open at The Goodsyard in the Jewellery Quarter, this anticipated restaurant from chef Jonny Mills and his partner Hannah, was originally scheduled for October 2025 (and as of December 2025 that's still wha the website says). At the heart of the formula, will be a tasting menu using hyper-seasonal produce and top local suppliers.
Bancone, The Imperial - Bloomsbury - WC1B
London
Fans of ’60s Brutalist architecture should rush immediately to Bloomsbury, to this new (sixth) branch of the fast-expanding budget chain. But if you are just in the area and need a cheap bowl of pasta, that’s fine too.
Dishoom - LS1
Leeds
A summer 2026 opening – or thereabouts – is expected of this city centre branch of the expanding Indian chain, set to bring its trademark black dhal and the vibrant style of Iran’s parsi cafés to the former Flannels site – a 8,000 sq. ft two-floor space between Victoria Gate and Victoria Quarter shopping centres.
Waterhouse - E2
London
The Waterhouse Project is dead… long live The Waterhouse! – Gabriel Waterhouse and wife Patricia Wakaimba shuttered their first London restaurant in Bethnal Green in June 2026 only to open this sequel in nearby Hackney, behing Columbia Road, in August 2026. The ‘Project’ in the name was dropped in the process. The new venue occupies a Victorian warehouse space and is promoted as offering ‘modern Northumbrian’ cuisine – a Scandi-eque style ‘inspired by the landscapes and traditions of the North East of England and Scotland’ (and Gabriel’s childhood home). At one sitting only, with a maximum group-size of four, you can enjoy an 11-course tasting menu for £125 per person, with matching wine of £75 per person (or BYO at £45 corkage). Allow two and a half hours for the meal, which is served at 1pm at weekends and 7.15pm on Thursday-Saturday evenings. Reports please!
Soraya - W1U
London
Big mid-2026 opening from the lifestyle-y Pachamama group which originally hatched up this concept in Abu Dhabi, and are now bringing it to the Loxton Walk development off Baker Street. With 200 covers, it will feature an all-day Persian menu: its omelettes, fresh pide and yoghurts for brek, then a main food offering featuring flatbreads and also kebabs, and dishes such as short rib khoresh with sour grape. Pudding-wise cheesecake will be a feature (although these were invented in Greece apparently).
Azra - E10
London
A beautifully designed family-run Afghan restaurant in a converted railway arch next to Leyton Midland station in east London, which opened in August 2026. Owner Waheed Kazemi has his own design studio which fitted out the 40-seater venue, and he has commissioned crockery from fellow east London artisans. His brother Rohullah and sister Zohra are also part of the Ezra team, with their mother Sakeenah as head chef. The menu is led by a signature kabuli pulao – lamb slow-cooked for eight hours with rice, carrots, raisins, cumin seeds and cardamom. Other options include stuffed pan-fried flatbreads, steamed dumplings filled with minced beef and onions and kofta and kebabs.
Jul
Kaio - W2
London
On the very-short-lived Bayswater site that was Nela (RIP), this late July 2026 newcomer stepped immediately into its vacated shoes with a similar live-fire format, and still with Nela’s head chef, Sachin Mistry, in the same role, who (he says) has created a “menu that celebrates vibrant, seasonal ingredients brought together with smoke, spice, acidity and texture, with many dishes cooked over an open fire”. Options include various cuts of short-horn beef along with Canadian lobster, Cornish sea bass, glazed Iberio pork and chicken.
Regency House - BT7
Belfast
This boutique hotel has attracted Belfast-born chef Chris McClurg back home to launch his first restaurant as boss. He is aiming high, having been head chef at Paul Ainsworth's famous Number Six in Cornwall, and he is joined in the new venture by his partner Alice Stewart, who rose from pastry chef to be director of Number Six.
Wagyu Yakiniku Ushio - W1T
London
Wagyu beef cooked at the counter is the speciality at this new Fitzrovian, which opened in July 2026 on the site of Palms of Goa (RIP). The debut is part of an expanding international chain that started in Fukuoka in 2016 and opened its first branch outside Japan last year in Taipei. The meat in question is A5 akani wagyu: ‘akani’ means deap red and indicates a leaner style of wagyu with less fat-marbelling, hence a more meaty flavour than other types. It is served either as part of a seven-course omakase for £95 a person or with à la carte options (such as wagyu curry, wagyu tartare, wagyu carpaccio, minced wagyu…). The only non-wagyu dishes are a house salad to accompany and a choux bun for dessert!
St Enodoc Hotel - PL27
British, Modern
Rock
The fine-dining space at St Enodoc Hotel (once occupied by Nathan Outlaw) is now the Estuary Grill under new owner Paul Ainsworth, showcasing top-quality Cornish ingredients cooked on an asado grill, plus dishes inspired by the Indian Ocean, reflecting Paul’s Seychellois heritage. A more informal, family-friendly all-day restaurant, the Flour Garden, will open seasonally from March to October, welcoming walk-in guests.
Arbequina - OX1
Oxford
Rufus Thurston launched Oli’s Thai with his wife Ladd in 2013, and followed up with tapas bar Arbequina, which he opened with Ben Whyles and Ben Bateman three years later. Now they unveil a second branch of Arbequina in Oxford Covered Market which will be a seven-day affair. Initially it will be lunch service only but meals in the evening are planned when the first floor opens later in the year.
Coppa Club - London Bridge - SE1
London
Taking over from Tavolino, RIP – a new branch with a large terrace overlooking the Thames of these handy and attractive (but not very gourmet) destinations.
Mr Fogg’s Tavern - WC2
London
Phileas Fogg is the theme of this summer 2026 launch which steps into the shoes of the dear old Crusting Pipe (RIP), the cosy if battered wine bar that stood at the foot of the Covent Garden piazza for four decades. This newcomer is part of a series of Fogg-inspired outlets in the West End.
Mor - TR26
Saint Ives
On the Carbis Bay Estate near St Ives, an outpost from acclaimed London-based chef Tom Sellers of Restaurant Story fame, who ran a successful summer pop-up in Cornwall back in 2019. He has taken over the venue previously occupied by Adam Handling's Ugly Butterfly, and promises a seasonal menu that exploits the region's best products, including dayboat fish and seafood and grass-fed Cornish beef.
Mor, Carbis Bay Estate - TR26
Saint Ives
Chef Tom Sellers is the name behing this Cornish 2026 opening at the Carbis Bay Estate in St Ives, which echoes his 2019 pop-up, Story by the Sea, nearby. The focus for the menu will be a raw bar and charcoal grill, with a locally sourced offering including hand-dived scallops, day boat fish, ex-dairy beef and produce grown in an on-site kitchen garden. Sample dishes include Cornish crab with steamed milk buns; and Nori-wrapped mackerel escabeche with English wasabi and young ginger.
Bulbul - EC4Y
London
Early summer 2026 arrival – a contemporary Indian from chef Rohan D’Souza and Twinkle Keswani, named Young Restaurateur of the Year by The Economic Times in 2023. The launch PR promises vibrant small plates, creative cocktails, and immersive design with sample dishes including Forest Pepper Crab Dosa, Goan Shrimp Balcha?o, Jim Corbett Hunter’s Murgh Mussallam, and Nilgiri Beef Short Rib Korma.
Miokuru - W1B
London
Freshly made hand-rolls and Japanese pressed-fish dishes are the new staples at this 20-seater Soho debut, whose interior is arranged around a central counter and open kitchen. Seafood will be sourced from Britain and the drinks list will include London brewed sake, natural wines, and various Japanese-inspired beverages. Miokuru means “to send someone off on a journey”.
Hon’s BBQ - E9
London
First standalone restaurant from pitmaster and former DJ and vinyl dealer Man Hon Luk (“Hon”), whose Texan-Chinese barbecue pop-ups have developed an East London following. It takes over the grungily groovy 80-cover site in a canal-side warehouse above Crate that was formerly Silo (RIP). Texas-style BBQ is fused with Cantonese and broader Asian flavours, with smoked brisket, pork belly and beef cheeks served alongside rice, duck pancakes all with Chinese-inspired seasoning.
Kismet - SE1
London
Taking over from Cambodian-inspired pop-up Barang, this site remains notable 1) for occupying the room made famous in the movie of Bridget Jones's diary, in which the space doubled for her flat; and 2) now for Dom Hamdy, the restaurateur behind Bistro Freddie et al and chef Keiran Mustafa presenting a tribute to the traditional meyhanes of Istanbul and Northern Cyprus on a year-long residency with meze, mangal-grilled kebabs, and Turkish wines.
Bar Blondie - NW6
London
In Queen’s Park, a new wine bar and restaurant from sommelier Alexandra Price and Elliot Milne, inspired by southern Europe, with a 160-bin wine list paired with Italian and southern French cuisine. The space, located in a converted stable mews, will also feature live music, poetry, and wine tastings.
Gordon Ramsay at The Mere - WA16
Knutsford
Footie hunks, tanned lovelies and influencers-a-go-go will be out in force for the Summer 2026 opening of this northerly outpost of the Ramsay empire, within a plush Golf development on the fringes of Cheshire's Golden Triangle.
Hendersons - G41 - G41
Pollokshields
Taking over the former Seven21 site on the city's Southside, an offshoot from a veteran Edinburgh vegetarian and vegan institution. Now run by Barrie Henderson, it was founded by his Glaswegian-born grandmother Janet, with a menu that combines some of her recipes with more contemporary foraged and fermented delights.
Rocola - E8
London
Aiming to repeat a similar format to Carousel, but in east London, this July 2026 newcomer is not a restaurant per se but a gallery-style space with a ‘rotating kitchen’ of regularly updated visiting chefs and residencies.
Brasserie Olivia - SW1W
French
London
On Sloane Square, the first international venue from Charles Perez and Victor Dubillot's Paris-based group offering a contemporary take on the classic Gallic brasserie, with plenty of seafood and everything cooked on the premises. The basement Venus Bar is themed around a turntable and a large collection of vinyl records: very now.
The Little Neon Door - EC2A
London
It may have a Little Door, but this is the biggest site yet for ‘Little Door & Co’: the five-strong group founded in 2014 that aims for a house-party vibe and is finally hitting east London in Shoreditch. A two-level site it will have five ‘experiential’ rooms – another site is planned in 2026 including its first site outside the capital.
Langosteria, The OWO - SW1A
London
Update - 2 years after it was announced, this restaurant is finally due to open in 2026. With branches in Paris, near Portofino, St Moritz and – now here at this mega new five star on Whitehall – Enrico Buonocore’s Italian newcomer originates (like Paper Moon) from Milan. Seafood is the big deal here, and if it follows the template of the original no meat or veggie options will be served.
Jun
Nammos London - W1J
London
High-end Mediterranean seafood and beef top the menu at this chichi outfit from a group founded in Mykonos in 2003, with offshoots in Cannes and Dubai. Originally they had planned to open near Harrods, but the actual debut is on a two-floor site near The Ritz with a Mediterranean menu zhooshed up with the odd Japanese inflection: lots of fish and seafood, a raw bar, and wood-fired preparations. Signature dishes include Aubergine Mille-Feuille with feta mousse and Spicy Crab Tartare finished with yuzu truffle and Black Angus. (Nowadays it's part of ADMO Lifestyle Holding – a JV between Alpha Dhabi Holding PJSC and Monterock International Limited, who also own Em Sherif and Cé La Vi).
Latine Mayfair - W1S
London
Off Bond Street in the courtyard enclave of Lancashire Court, this new operation debuts in a cute pocket of London that’s seen places thrive for years but also come and go. Styling its menu as Latin American-French, the ground floor has a fashionable ‘Crudo Bar’ plus a champagne terrace, while the first floor – ‘La Candela’ – is for dining.
Haldiram's UK - WC2H
London
The West End is increasingly a haven for homesick ex-pats of various nationalities as huge international food businesses target the units hereabouts to showcase their brand in the UK. This new 3,000 square foot site off Leicester Square seats 120 and will cater in part to Indians missing the authentic taste of home as delivered by India’s largest sweets and snacks brand (est 1937) which operates in 80 countries and has 200+ restaurants across north India. Here, as well as their signature treats, you can enjoy Indian breakfasts, an extensive chaat selection, chickpea and vegetable curries and ‘infusion’-led desserts.
Rosina - SW17
London
Taking over the former site of Brinkley's Kitchen overlooking Wandsworth Common, the first Italian restaurant from chef Adam Byatt of local superstar Trinity, up the road in Clapham. He's named it after his daughter Rosie, which must mean it will be pretty special to him.
Isso - E14
London
With a flagship in Colombo – and a name meaning ‘Prawn’ in Sinhala – this Canary Wharf newcomer (open in June 2026) is the first international outpost of a ten-year-old Sri Lankan group called ‘Prawn Crazy’. The clue is in the translated name, with a menu featuring king prawns sourced from Sri Lanka and much traditional chilli flavouring. Seating 90, you start with mutton rolls, cuttlefish fritto or Isso wade (lentil patties with crisp prawns). Then it’s onto one of four types of prawn with the preparation of your choice, all washed down with Sri Lankan tea as well as beer and cocktails.
RH London - W1S
British, Modern
London
Opening in 2025/6 in Mayfair, where it has taken over the former Anercrombie & Fitch store off Savile Row, a lavish interiors showroom from the luxury US giant fka Restoration Hardware, with a restaurant, coffee shop, three bars and a roof terrace. This follows RH's palatial European debut at Aynho Park, a 17th-century stately home in north Oxfordshire.
Humble Grape - EC1A
London
In the space that was Club Gascon's "Le Bar" – a new link in this wine-loving chain.
Celentano’s, Arthouse Glasgow - G2
Italian
Glasgow
Having operated since August 2021 in Glasgow's Cathedral House building, the operation shifts in 2026 to new digs in Arthouse Glasgow. Still run by Anna and Dean Parker, the new venue will offer a refreshed Italian-influenced menu with an ingredient-led, minimal-waste approach; and a focus on fermentation methods and produce cooked over embers. The drinks menu, curated by Anna, will echo the kitchen's ethos, featuring seasonal cocktails made from kitchen 'waste'. The new space, designed by A-nrd Studio, will seat over 60 guests. (A May update says the opening has now been pushed back to June or later).
Birchwood, The Conduit - WC2H
London
In Covent Garden – on the ground floor of a socially conscious members club that also opens its rooftop (currently branded as Rucola) to the public – this new project is a partnership with Will Devlin, of Kent’s excellent The Small Holding. Sustainability is the order of the day, in what promises to be “a unique café and wine bar concept launched in summer 2026, followed by the autumn debut of a reimagined rooftop restaurant offering an à la carte dining experience”. It’s all dead eco, “bringing the values of independent, ethical farming and season-led cooking into central London”. Meat will come from their own butchery, Block, “allowing full transparency and whole animal use; fish is sourced with the same integrity as meat, only responsibly caught British seafood is used”; much of the veg is grown close to home in Kent and Sussex “with a focus on soil health, flavour and resilience” (and “imperfect, seasonal vegetables are embraced, allowing the ingredient to dictate how it is cooked rather than forcing uniformity”).
FIR By Matt Sampson - HR3
Hay-on-Wye
Formerly at The Vine Tree pub in Llangattock, Matt Sampson is upping sticks in June 2026 to take over the former Michelin Green Star Chapters (RIP) in Hay on Wye. The chef – who includes Ynyshir, Casamia and L'Enclume on his CV – will offer a multi-course tasting menu.
SOLA - W2
American
London
Victor Garvey’s Sola is moving! – from mid July it will operate at a new Bayswater address listed next door to his recent opening Materia. Until then Sola is still to be found at 64 Dean Street, London W1 (Soho).
Mour - W1H
London
A new Mediterranean-inspired opening comes to Marylebone in June 2026 care of the neighbouring Leonard Hotel and in consultation with Emerald Hospitality Group. In style, it’s a reimagined Georgian townhouse adjacent to the hotel in Seymour Street, with its own entrance. There will be seating for 60, plus a 20-seat courtyard boasting a retractable roof.
The Piglet - BR6
London
Summer opening on a site that was formerly Ye Olde Whyte Lyon – it's from the same group as The Pig's Head in Clapham and the Princess of Shoreditch.
Lady of the Grapes, Menier Chocolate Factory - SE1
British, Modern
London
The Menier Chocolate Factory has long been known as an interesting venue integrating a standalone Theatre operation with dine-and-a-show possibilities. Now they have spun-off the restaurant (a 60-cover space with 20-seat terrace) to become the second branch of Lady Of The Grapes whose own debut was on Maiden Lane in 2018. Carole Bryon is the owner and it will provide a bistro menu back up by a 400-bin wine list.
Dante, Claridge’s Hotel - W1K
London
Here we go again!! After a brief spell as plain vanilla Claridge’s Restaurant this restless super-luxe five-star is yet-again rebranding and re-launching its main restaurant in an exhaustive (exhausting?) quest for the perfect formula for this Art Deco space that's been launched and relaunched ceaselessly in recent years. What started as a residency for NYC operators Linden Pride and Nathalie Hudson has now blossomed into a permanent gig (due to “popular demand and critical acclaim” according to the press release). Thomas Kochs, the well-known MD at Claridge’s, proclaims: “We have loved seeing the energy the team at Dante has brought to Claridge’s, and bringing the magic of Manhattan to Mayfair has truly resonated with Londoners. The goal is to make this restaurant the living room of Mayfair, a relaxed spot with great food, wonderful people and, of course, a buzzing atmosphere thanks to Dante’s signature Martini hour, and soulful live music.”
Canopy, Olympia - W14
London
Incipio Group return to Olympia (they used to run a Pergola here), with this new rooftop venue which – suiting the upmarket aims of the new £1.3bn Olympia development – aims to be a flagship for their ‘elevated’ food hall approach. Underneath a retractable glass canopy, you can sample various combinations of booze and bites: Bar Arriba (Mexican-inspired), Wolves of Tokyo (no prizes for guessing...), Lillie’s (small plates and English wines) or Arbour (a food hall with fried chicken, dine fare, smash burgers and coffee (‘artisinal’, of course) at Café Modo. West London families looking for a nice dinner on the rooftop should maybe head elsewhere though – at Bar Arriba, which has the prime spot in the open air, under-18s are banned after 7pm.
Freight Island - NE1
Newcastle
Taking over the upper floor of the former Debenham's building in the centre of the Toon, a music, entertainment and dining venue with the UK's largest retractable roof. Its 12 food outlets (plus four bars) will be headlined by Pyr, a live-fire restaurant from the team behind the brilliant Pine in East Wallhouses (to open in August).
Keller - CT5
Whitstable
Dan Smith, the chef behind the Fordwich Arms, is partnering with Elliott Ashton-Konig to launch this new wine bar in Whitstable. Elliott will curate a diverse wine list, including selections from Old and New World producers as well as local Kent wines. Cooked by Ollie Clifford-Cox, the menu will include dishes such as Rarebit croquettes; Beef tartare with shoestring fries and gherkin ketchup, Rump of lamb with merguez, tomato and goat’s curd; and Brown sugar custard tart with crème fraîche ice cream.
Chez Rose - W1S
London
Taking over from Little Social on Pollen Street in Mayfair, a French bistro from Spencer Metzger of highly rated Row on 5. Named after his grandmother, it will use seasonal British ingredients in a menu inspired by the French classics he cooked at The Ritz. The site remains part of Jason Atherton's empire.
Kin, The Roseate Edinburgh - EH12
Edinburgh
Gary Maclean, Scotland’s National Chef, opens this 45-seater as part of The Roseate Edinburgh, a three-year-old boutique hotel converted from two Victorian townhouses on the capital’s West Side. Glasgow-born Gary made his name by winning MasterChef: The Professionals in 2016 and is also executive chef at the City of Glasgow College and operates two venues at Edinburgh’s Bonnie & Wild food hall: seafood restaurant Creel Caught and deli Soup & Caboodle. The menu will evolve and change with the seasons: you you can expect his take on Cullen Skink and other items include hand-dived scallop with brown crab, barley, spinach and shellfish emulsion; grilled langoustine; pan-seared loin of roe deer with oats, nuts, salsify and sloe gin sauce; and cranachan cheesecake.
Domo - LS1
Leeds
Sibling to the Sardinian restaurant in Sheffield of the same name – this spring 2026 newcomer be open all-day in a canal?side space seating 95 (and with 25 outdoor seats). The Tower Works development is part of Leeds’s South Bank regeneration.
Buvette - WC2H
London
Spring 2026 newcomer from US chef Jody Williams opening what the press release describes as her cult NYC offering to the heart of Covent Garden. Taking over the former St. John bakery site, Buvette will be an 80-cover all-day “Gastrotheque” and a yard-side terrace. This is the brand's second crack at London having tried three years ago in Notting Hill.
Portfolio - M3
Trinity
In the city centre, what was billed as the UK's first champagne boutique when it opened in late 2025 will now have a restaurant headed by chef and co-founder Julian Pizer, offering multi-course tasting menus (10 at lunch; 14 or 18 at dinner) with optional matching champagnes.
Appalachia - N1
London
Taking over from tasting menu specialist Counter 71, a restaurant inspired by the regional cuisine developed by Hillbillies in the US Appalachian mountain range. Ali Borer, a former head chef at Smoking Goat, is running the kitchen. Co-owner Ryan Sheehan's US-inspired bar Lowcountry carries on in the basement.
No.FortyNine - NW8
London
Café-bakery by day, bistro-wine bar by night – this June 2026 newcomer on St John’s Wood High Street isn’t focused on foodie fireworks, but aims to supply an affordable yet interesting meal. It’s the work of Jake Finn of Cinder (see also).
Temaki - W1S
Japanese
London
All change! – the restaurant (names for its speciality dish, the hand roll) closed after 5 years in Brixton Market in 2025 and in February 2026 has headed for the bright lights of Mayfair, to open on Maddox Street in partnership with the Crown Estate who are "excited to welcome Temaki to the West End. It is a great example of a rapidly growing independent operator which is ready to establish itself in the heart of London". The ground floor houses an open kitchen – downstairs will be a 28-cover bar.
Kinz - W11
London
Named for ‘Treasure’ in Arabic, this Notting Hill debut is the work of Jad Lahoud, Karim Lahoud, and Rasha Khouri Bruzzo and it's stated aim is “an authentic yet contemporary take on Lebanese cooking, rooted in tradition and shaped for modern, all-day dining”. With space for 130 diners, it occupies a 1930s banking hall with triple?height ceilings, mezzanine seating and a converted bank vault used as a wine room. It will open all-day from breakfast (from £12) before moving onto mezze and grills in later services.
May
The Old Point House - SA71
Pembroke
Bayside pub on the far tip of Pembrokeshire reputedly frequented by smugglers and pirates in centuries past, the new home for Paternoster Farm, a farm-to-fork venue set up by chef Michelle Evans on a smallholding six miles away during the Covid pandemic. She serves a daily set menu that relies mainly on home-grown produce.
Kiez Kebab - W10
London
On North Portobello's hip Golborne Road, on a site that was formerly The Counter, this slick-looking spring 2026 newcomer is a "design led take on the classic kebab shop" that's Berlin-inspired. A 30-cover space with stainless steel countertops, it is focused on a curt menu of three core options (with veal, chicken and a vegan option) served in pide, with classic sides alongside Germanic beers and drinks.
Vesper - EC1R
London
The name of chef-patron Jackson Boxer will help inspire interest in this May 2026 newcomer in Exmouth Market given his well-known stable of successes (Brunswick House in Vauxhall founded with his brother Frank, and Dove in Notting Hill, as well as various other side-hustles). Designer Jermaine Gallacher has converted a double-fronted corner site as a 70-cover space with bar and candlelit dining room beyond (plus a terrace). Picking three dishes at random from the menu: croquette 'arnold bennett', tarragon mayonnaise; glazed lamb shoulder, merguez, devilled kidney, burnt aubergine; peach, pistachio, cardamom.
Avi Bistro, Lowndes Hotel - SW1X
London
At The Lowndes Hotel in Belgravia, a 45-cover May 2026 newcomer with luxury twists on classic American and French dishes (if like Franglais, there's something called "Framerican" – there’s lots on the menu with NYC Fried Chicken & Caviar, Caviar Fish and Chips, Lobster Brioche Roll, Le Big Mac avec Truffle…). Also an all-day dining menu with breakfast, catering to both hotel guests and the public.
Plaza Khao Gaeng - WC2E
London
Luke Farrell and JKS Restaurants are moving fast with this Thai chain with the opening of this third branch hot on the heels of its second. It opens in late spring 2026 in Covent Garden – a 75-cover site next to the new Arcade Food Hall.
The Sea, The Sea - SW1X
Fish & seafood
London
Named for an Iris Murdoch novel, this luxurious fish deli is upping sticks after 7 years in May 2026 but is moving only a little further down the road. It will take over the space that was Wulf & Lamb and come complete with a fishmongers, fish bistro and outside terrace.
The Set - BN1
British, Modern
Brighton
Having been for years at 50 Preston Road, Set 2.0 as they are calling it on their Insta is open down the road at no 9 as of May 2026. The new incarnation will have just 12 seats.
White Horse Easton - IP13
Easton
Hots on the heels of their success with The Suffolk in Aldeburgh, George Pell and his team open this May 2026 newcomer: a grade II-listed pub within the Easton Park Estate. It’s a pub but it’s to be “elevated” like so many things nowadays: so fish ’n’ chips comes with ‘chip-shop’ curry sauce and house pickles; there’s a “Bloody Mary” prawn cocktail and even a twice-baked soufflé.
The Victory - SE22
London
Replacing Franklin's in East Dulwich, a popular local bistro for 26 years, this old pub is reverting to its original name under a group of regulars headed by Jamie Younger. He owns the Begging Bowl in Peckham and used to run the nearby Palmerston, so knows the area and its tastes inside out. The menu is to be notably Gallic with starters (from £9) like Bayonne Ham with celeriac remoulade; Steak Tartare with dripping toast; and Crab Vinaigrette. Mains (from £19) are dishes like Poached Sea Trout with dill beurre blanc; Sauté Veal Sweetbreads Grenobloise; and the Roast Poulet Jaune for two to share. A whole charcoal grilled fish and Galloway Beef Steaks are also available for sharing for 3-5 people. Desserts (from £8) include Fig Leaf Custard; a Chocolate and Hazelnut Choux Bun and Baba au Rhum, is available to share.
Banquet 88 - E1W
London
By the water of St Katherine's Docks on Commodity Quay, this large (160 cover) Chinese debut opened in May 2026 after a month's soft opening. It's aimed around celebratory dining, so unlike its siblings –
Zylia - WC2E
London
By Arcade's new Food Hall in Covent Garden, this new standalone Greek-Cypriot taverna, is run by Nick Molyviatis and Barry Karacostas, with a menu channeling the duo's shared Greek and Cypriot heritage. Rustic charm balanced with contemporary elements is all going to lead to a warm welcome according to the press release. Sample menu items suggest it's one for those who like to eat heartily, including items such as: Sheftalia (grilled pork parcels); souvlaki; kleftiko; lamb chops served Greek style; karidopita, a traditional Greek walnut cake; and galaktompoureko, baked semolina custard in filo pastry.
MAAI By Nikita - SW4
London
TV success and family bonds characterise this Clapham newcomer in ‘Abbeville Village’ whose name is the Hindi word for mother. Nikita Pathakji was Masterchef:The Professionals winner in 2022 and became Great British Menu's “Champion of Champions” just a month before the restaurant's May 2026 opening. After a run of supper club successes, Nikita debuts the venue with her mother Rima and sister Isha. Modern British cooking is filtered through Indian, Southeast Asian and broader global influences including a signature octopus doughnut and halibut with Malaysian fish-head curry. Other sample dishes: Spring lamb rump with pea and coconut, and Asparagus gomae with scorched mackerel.
White Tiger - L3
Liverpool
Merseyside doctors and long-time friends Meenal Abhyankar and Dhanya Kalathil, are the driving force behind this new Indian venture on the docks in Liverpool, in collaboration with chefs, Shipra Khanna and Anahita Dhondy. Going for a cuzza after a stressful day on the wards, they “always felt there was something missing when it came to Indian food” in The Pool, and this is their “authentic, exciting and different” answer to filling the gap.
whirlybird - EH1
Edinburgh
An all-day “modern tavern” in Edinburgh’s Old Town, in a striking 250-year-old building on Victoria Street. Open in May 2026, the project comes from former Herringbone operator Ash Bairstow alongside a team drawn from Hawksmoor, Panda & Sons and The Kitchin Group. Around 100 are spread across two floors and four interconnected rooms, including a 15-seat standalone bar area and a semi-private dining room for 16. Sample dishes: Smoked mackerel with marinated potatoes and sherry vinaigrette; Whole grilled fish with brown butter and capers; Flat iron steak with parmesan and balsamic; Burnt cheesecake with poached rhubarb.
Noodle Inn - Covent Garden - WC2E
London
Open in 2026 – the third link in Alex Xu's fast-expanding and descriptively named chain.
Kawan by Uncle Roger - W1D
London
Online influences and comedian, Nigel Ng (“Uncle Roger") – known for his rice videos – teams up with Keng Yew (YiQi, The Eight, etc) to open this 60-cover Chinatown venture (on a site that was Monga, which has relocated to Soho). Given Ng’s persona we’re guessing some fried rice on a menu which promises Pan?Asian dishes with British influences. Kawan is Malay for “friend” or “companion".
Songbird, Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre - E14
London
Located in Wood Wharf's Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre – the venue has recently opened its doors to non-theatre guests. The restaurant space also incorporates a circular bar, plus private dining areas. The menu includes dishes like pan-roasted cod, wild mushroom pot pie, and a Wagyu burger with truffle mayonnaise.
Arcade Food Hall - Covent Garden - WC2
London
On the Covent Garden corner that was for yonks the UK’s flagship TGI Fridays (RIP), this 12,500 sq ft and 385 seats site is now a link in the Arcade food hall chain, with seven spaces plus Studio Coffee.
Cantinera - SE4
London
A tiny Brockley May 2026 arrival, part Mexican cantina, part Spanish tapas bar. The project comes from chefs Celia D’Ortiz and Jake Barwood, who developed a following through their Codillos residencies before taking over this site: the former Mother Flipper. A weekly changing blackboard menu offers the likes of seasonal tostadas (eg Seabass crudo tostada with almond praline and fried leeks) and other small plates. BYOB.
