We’ve made it… Who’d have thought it? It hasn’t been easy, the hospitality industry has suffered terribly and there’s a lot of uncertainty ahead of us, but we’re ending 2021 by raising a glass to all of the wonderful new restaurants that powered through and opened up their doors for the first time.
Every December, we look back at our favourite openings of the year, whether it’s an exciting new dining concept, a restaurant opening from a celebrity chef or simply somewhere we’ve experienced a stunning memorable night.
Despite the new set of restrictions, new work from home rules and unpredictability ahead of us, the hospitality industry still needs our support. So whether you’re looking for somewhere new to dine or you bookmark this article for later, here are the best openings of 2021.
May
We’re skipping straight to May, the month when restaurants could open up their doors for indoor dining for the first time in six months.
INO
Brought to you from the team behind Marylebone’s OPSO and the Athens based two Michelin-starred restaurant Funky Gourmet comes INO, a restaurant inspired by the ancient Greek technique of cooking over charcoal.
The restaurant’s menu centres around the Greek ‘Psistaria’ grill, drawing influences from the dining culture seen in tavernas across Greece. The menu boasts small plates designed for sharing, including grilled feta, cherry tomatoes, spring onions and chilli; octopus taco, smoked tomato, onion crisps and olive oil flatbread; and Imam, grilled aubergine, tomatoes, onions, charred and feta.
WHERE: 4 NEWBURGH STREET, CARNABY, SOHO, W1F 7RF
WEBSITE: WWW.INOGASTROBAR.COM
Sabine
With views looking out to St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s lit up skyline, Sabine is home to two outside terraces, one of which has a retractable roof that’ll soon become the home of all-weather drinking and dining. And it’s arguably one of the coolest places to open in 2021.
The botanical theme from the interiors lives on through the cocktail menu, with signature serves made with fresh ingredients and garnishes. Pull up a pew at the bar and order in one of their seasonal cocktails, or order in a few sharing plates while you catch up with friends.
WHERE: 7TH FLOOR, LEONARDO ROYAL HOTEL LONDON ST PAUL’S, 10 GODLIMAN STREET, THE CITY, EC4V 5AJ
WEBSITE: WWW.SABINELONDON.CO.UK
FENN
FENN is an all new seasonal British restaurant from the team behind Hackney’s popular restaurant, Nest.
Located in Fulham, the restaurant focuses on creative, seasonal and produce-driven cooking that celebrates the best that the UK has to offer, through an a la carte and set menu. Hero dishes include Lincolnshire Poacher Cheese and Truffle Dumplings; Halibut Cornish Crab and Sea Herbs; and Nutmeg Custard Tart.
WHERE: 194 WANDSWORTH BRIDGE ROAD, FULHAM, SW6 2UF
WEBSITE: WWW.FENNRESTAURANT.CO.UK
Eataly
The UK’s first ever Eataly site opened up in late April, bringing with it over 5,000 quality Italian products, a dedicated La Via del Dolce and outdoor dining area La Terrazza di Eataly.
Bringing a fresh slice of Italian hospitality to the city, the site welcomes Londoners to explore a new side of Italy through fine food, take-away options and traditional produce.
There are several dining options to choose from. Terra focuses on the ancient technique using fire and grilling, and boasts dishes such as Calamaro – grilled squid, heritage carrots and black garlic vinaigrette; Galletto – spatchcocked baby chicken and nuduja diavola style; and caolo – hispi cabbage, pesto trapanese; and toasted noto almond. Cucina del Mercato, meaning ‘kitchen of the market’ in Italian, is a counter-to-table concept celebrating fresh ingredients and produce from the in-store fresh counters, while Pasta e Pizza serves up wood-fired pizza and traditional pasta dishes.
WHERE: 135 BISHOPSGATE, EC2M 3YD
WEBSITE: WWW.EATALY.CO.UK
Cin Cin
Hailing from the seaside city of Brighton & Hove, Cin Cin is a new neighbourhood Italian restaurant that landed in Fitzrovia in May.
Boasting a small but stylish 20-seat dining room and south-facing terrace, the restaurant serves up fresh Italian flavours, from pappardelle with oxtail ragu and pecorino to salt cod croquettes with leek agliata.
WHERE: 21A FOLEY STREET, FITZROVIA, W1W 6DS
WEBSITE: WWW.CINCIN.CO.UK
The Cheese Barge
The vessel comes from the team behind The Cheese Bar and Pick & Cheese. Designed by Adam Richards Architects, the design draws influence from the Electra bookstore in Venice and boasts a copper ‘veil’ which will act as an awning for the 40 cover lower deck dining room. The upper deck will boast a 20 cover open-air area, which is perfect for the warmer months to come.
WHERE: SHELDON SQUARE, PADDINGTON CENTRAL, W2 6HY
WEBSITE: WWW.THECHEESEBAR.COM
NYX Hotel London Holborn
NYX Hotel London Holborn is the UK’s first NYX Hotel and champions the best of London’s culture and vibrancy through its design and interiors. The rooms and spa will offer guests a place to relax and rejuvenate from the busy streets outside, while the restaurant and bar is home to eclectic interiors that are guaranteed to become an Instagram favourite. Here find all-day brunching options, from panettone French toast to chorizo shakshuka.
With travelling abroad still filled with restrictions, tests and often isolation, book in for a night here for a hassle free staycation instead.
WHERE: NYX HOTEL LONDON HOLBORN BY LEONARDO HOTELS, 50-60 SOUTHAMPTON ROW, HOLBORN, WC1B 4AR.
WEBSITE: WWW.JURYSINNS.COM
Sixes Cricket Club
Co-founded by Mac and Wild’s Andy Waugh and Calum Mackinnon, Sixes Cricket Club is the only venue in London that provides guests a place to play cricket and dine. And they’ve since launched UV style cricket and virtual cricket experiences too!
Back in May, we saw the pair launched their second branch in Fitzrovia, bringing with it a gastro-pub inspired menu. Expect dishes such as burnt end nuggets with beef gravy; low and slow chicken wings with confit garlic mayo; and mac and cheese croquettes with burnt pepper pesto.
WHERE: 170 GREAT PORTLAND STREET, FITZROVIA, W1W 5QB
WEBSITE: WWW.SIXESCRICKET.COM
June
HUŎ
Brought to you from the team behind Notting Hill’s ULI comes HUŎ, a brand new restaurant celebrating the best of Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine.
The restaurant brings to life carefully selected dishes, all prepared from scratch using traditional Chinese, Thai, Malay and Singaporean disciplines. Highlights from the menu include Triple-Cooked Dover Sole with Asparagus, Garlic & Chilli and Stir-Fried Beef Fillet with Spicy Black Pepper Sauce.
WHERE: 9 PARK WALK, CHELSEA, SW10 0AJ
WEBSITE: WWW.HUO.LONDON
Los Mochis
Los Mochis is a brand new restaurant and bar, mixing Mexican spirit with Japanese elegance. The restaurant brings the best of both cultures, experiences and customs to the table and engulf them in a whole new way, which is something we’re certainly excited to explore.
On the interior front, both the ground floor dining room and first-floor lounge champion rustic Mexican culture, with vibrant paintings hanging from the walls and cacti plants dotted around, but these are then finished with warm, sophisticated Japanese touches, from the warm timbers to the relaxed dining layout. The food also is largely Mexican influenced, with a huge 22-strong Gangster Taco Menu, helping to elevate the taco game back onto Londoners minds.
WHERE: 2 FARMER STREET, NOTTING HILL, W8 7SN
WEBSITE: WWW.LOSMOCHIS.CO.UK
Kerridge’s Fish & Chips
Bringing you a taste of the seaside is Tom Kerridge’s new chippy venture, and it’s launched inside the iconic shopping destination, Harrods.
The popular TV chef reinvents the humble chip shop and posh it up to fine dining standards, all while keeping the flavours and spirit of the seaside favourite alive. The menu is largely seafood focussed, sourced from local fishmongers. Enjoy hand-dived scallops, native lobster and Kerridge’s famous crispy gluten-free batter.
WHERE: 87-135 BROMPTON ROAD, KNIGHTSBRIDGE, SW1X 7XL
WEBSITE: WWW.HARRODS.COM
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Smashing Plates
While escaping to Greece might not be on the cards, you can enjoy the authentic flavours right here on your London doorstep thanks to the arrival of Smashing Plates and their new St Thomas Street branch.
Smashing Plates brings the sights, sounds and flavours of Greece and Cyprus to London. Expect hearty gyros, protein packed salads and handmade baklava to add a little sweetness to your day.
WHERE: 59 ST THOMAS STREET, LONDON BRIDGE, SE1 3QX
WEBSITE: WWW.SMASHINGPLATES.UK
July
Ave Mario
Big Mamma Group, the team behind Gloria and Circolo Popolare, launched another exciting Instagrammable restaurant back in July.
Taking inspiration from Italy, Ave Mario boasts three different settings, all which nod to a traditional osteria. Boasting 295 covers, you’ll want to start out by the two terraces and stroll into the dining room that’s home to skylights and enveloped in green and white Duomo-striped walls.
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Big Mamma Group, the team behind Gloria and Circolo Popolare, launched another exciting Instagrammable restaurant back in June.
Following in its siblings footsteps, the bar is lined with 3,500 bottles as a feature wall, which leads out into an indoor courtyard and another 36-seat outdoor terrace. Meanwhile downstairs will draw in the party goers as the dining area is home to a 70s luxe mirrored basement with lowered kitchen and counter-side dining, where you’ll see the chefs working their magic.
The menu has been crafted by Chef Andrea, the company’s youngest ever head chef at just 23, and will draw inspiration from all over Italy – think influences from Liguria, Venice and Milan.
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WHERE: 15 HENRIETTA STREET, WC2E 8QG
WEBSITE: WWW.BIGMAMMAGROUP.COM
Sunday in Brooklyn
While your dream city escape to New York might be off the cards, get your American culinary fix at the Williamsburg favourite, Sunday in Brooklyn.
Founded by Todd Enany, Adam Landsman and chef Jaime Young, this new arrival of Sunday in Brooklyn is their first ever international location. The restaurant has become renowned for its American delights, colourful cocktails and bountiful brunch options, and is one of our favourite openings so far this year.
The restaurant features tall, wrap-around windows lighting up the room with natural light, and will serve up Notting Hill’s best selection of brunching options. Expect Sunday pancakes topped with hazelnut maple praline and brown butter; biscuits and gravy with poached eggs and spicy sambal; and cheddar scramble with house fries, toast and choice of side.
WHERE: 98 WESTBOURNE GROVE, W2 5RU
WEBSITE: WWW.SUNDAYINBK.CO.UK
Bellefields
Making its way to the ground floor of the iconic Department Store Studios, Bellefields is a new family-run restaurant and bar bringing the Mediterranean experience to London.
Filled with memories of Mediterranean holidays, from the Aegean and Balearic to the Levantine basin, the restaurant features a mix of light snacks, large plates and weekly specials created by head chef, James Mathieson. Dishes include grilled octopus, butter beans, spinach; pork souvlaki, tzatziki and pickles; linguine vongole, orecchiette, sprouting broccoli and lemon; and roast butternut squash, baba ganoush, pine nights and steak frites.
WHERE: 9 STOCKWELL AVENUE, BRIXTON, SW9 9SY
WEBSITE: WWW.BELLEFIELDS.COM
Oeno House
Finding somewhere that’s elegant, intimate and perfect for a date night in the heart of the City isn’t the easiest. But thankfully this July saw all that change with the arrival of Oeno House, the premier London flagship commercial space from the fine wine investment company OenoGroup.
Run by an all-female led team, Oeno House is set to be the place to go for fine wine, city vibes and a great atmosphere.
Located at The Royal Exchange, the fine wine boutique is home to a private 12-person tasting room and outside alfresco terrace, and houses a regular rotation of pop-up appearances from some of the biggest names in the wine world, including Penfolds, Domaine de la Romanee-Conti, and Liber Pater.
Run by an all-female led team, Oeno House is set to be the place to go for fine wine, city vibes and a great atmosphere.
WHERE: THE ROYAL EXCHANGE
WEBSITE: WWW.OENOGROUP.COM
Sucre
It’s always exciting when a renowned international chef opens up in London and this month is no different. This July saw chef Fernando Trocca bring the smells, tastes and flavours of Latin America to the heart of Soho, with the arrival of Sucre.
Taking cues from his Buenos Aires restaurant, Sucre boasts 123 covers and brings the flavours of Latin American open fire techniques to life. Meanwhile downstairs is Abajo, a bar that draws influences from the underground bars and clubs of 80s Buenos Aires, from Tato Giovanonni.
WHERE: 47B GREAT MARLBOROUGH STREET, SOHO, W1F 7JP
WEBSITE: WWW.SUCRERESTAURANT.COM
The Ivy Asia Chelsea
Once the haunt where you’d be guaranteed to find an A-lister or two knocking around, The Ivy Collection is continuing on its rapid expansion with an exciting new arrival landing in Chelsea this summer.
The Ivy Asia Chelsea opened back in July, bringing with it a taste of pan-Asian cuisine. On the interiors front, expect striking artworks, luscious Asian fabrics and bright wallpapers to be showcased throughout.
WHERE: 201-203A KING’S ROAD, CHELSEA, SW3 5ED
WEBSITE: WWW.THEIVYASIACHELSEA.COM
August
Park Row
DC fans unite, a superhero inspired restaurant made a stealthy arrival in Soho back in August
DC fans can watch as their favourite comic book characters come to life as Park Row opens its doors, bringing the crime ridden city of Gotham to life. From the moment you step inside you’ll be thrusted into Batman’s very own Batcave. Inside the 18,000sq ft venue are a number of restaurants and bars, all centred around a different notable DC character.
The main draw is The Monarch Theatre, where you can try a £195 11-course tasting menu inspired by the DC hero himself, Batman. The menu has been carefully staged, drawing on influences from the much-love comics and characters. Dishes include a ‘poisonous’ mushroom made from parfait, as well as caviar, oysters and scallops.
Expect memorable interiors, striking dishes and a dining experience unlike any other.
WHERE: 77 BREWER STREET, SOHO, W1F 9ZN
WEBSITE: WWW.PARKROWLONDON.CO.UK
The Seafood Bar
Bringing Londoners the chance to delight in the freshest seafood, without the high price tag, is Soho’s The Seafood Bar.
The restaurant is brought to London by the de Visschers household, the team behind the family-run restaurant group. It’s their fifth site and first international venture outside of the Netherlands, so it’s really rather exciting. Guests can expect to view and discuss the day’s catch with specialist chefs at the downstairs seafood bar, while enjoying simple dishes which allow the fish to speak for themselves.
WHERE: 77 DEAN STREET, SOHO, W1D 3SH
WEBSITE: WWW.THESEAFOODBAR.COM
Skylight Peckham
When I think of London rooftop bars, my mind immediately pictures Skylight. It’s a London institute, the ultimate place to spend evenings drinking cocktails, playing garden games and looking over London’s skyline. Well, lovers of the rooftop bar now have another place to get their fix as August saw them open up a second venue in Peckham!
Skylight Peckham brings with it all of the essentials: outdoor brunching, endless cocktail options and sweeping views across London. Taking over the top floor of Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, the space boasts capacity for 250.
Expect somewhere you can enjoy light lunches and afternoon snacks during the day and cocktails with friends come the evening.
WHERE: THEATRE WALK, 120 PECKHAM HILL STREET, SE15 5JT
WEBSITE: WWW.SKYLIGHTBARS.COM
José Pizarro at the Royal Academy
Celebrated Spanish chef José Pizarro is set to open up not one, but two restaurants this summer! He’ll be making his way to the Royal Academy of Arts, where he’ll open up two locations in collaboration with them and its longstanding creative hospitality partner, Company of Cooks.
On the ground floor, the Poster Bar by José will be a casual all-day dining spot boasting an exciting menu of tapas and drinks. Upstairs José Pizarro at the RA will be a slightly more formal, seated restaurant, while still very relaxed and showcasing the best of produce and Spanish cooking.
Expect tempting plates of Chipirones encebollados – baby squid cooked in caramelised sweet onions; Leeks with José’s signature romesco sauce; Hake in salsa verde; and Black ink croquetas.
WHERE: ROYAL ACADEMY, BURLINGTON GARDENS, PICCADILLY, W1J 0BD
WEBSITE: WWW.ROYALACADEMY.ORG.UK
The Top Hat
Fancy spending the night inside a board game? No, we’re not talking about a Scrabble themed escape room (although this needs to be a thing), but rather a monopoly themed restaurant that’s made its way to Fitzrovia.
Once the game that tore your family apart at Christmas, a monopoly themed restaurant opened in London and it isn’t as cheesy as it sounds. Aptly named The Top Hat, the interiors are rich and opulent, and guests are invited to order a deck of MONOPOLY Deal, a speedier, card-game version of the popular board game, to the table.
Alongside this, there’s Monopoly-themed cocktails and dishes, which nod to the quintessentially British game. There’s even a roast dinner named The Top Hat Roast. For cocktails, enjoy a Trafalgar Square’s Lychee & Rose Pearl Martini or a Leicester Square Red Carpet Daiquiri.
It’s set to be a really fun set-up and one that all ages can enjoy.
WHERE: 213 – 215 TOTTENHAM COURT ROAD, FITZROVIA, W1T 7PS
WEBSITE: WWW.THETOPHATRESTAURANT.COM
Bar La Rampa
Celebrating the long-standing traditions of Cuba’s food, rum and live music is Bar La Rampa, a new bar concept from the MJMK team. The new bar draws inspiration from the heritage and culture of 1950’s Havana, and is actually named after Calle 23, one of the well known streets in the Vedado region of the city.
Home to booth seating and vibrant artwork, the menu consists of small plates influenced by Cuba and the wider Central American region. Signature dishes include a Cubano sandwich, served with pork belly, ham and raclette cheese; chicken chicharrones made with fried chicken, habanero and pineapple salsa; and ceviche with prawn, avocado, sweet potato, almonds, coriander and corn tortilla chips.
On the drinks, expect a lot of rum. Cocktails will nod to celebrate the traditions and drinks that originated back to Cuba during the 1920s – 1950s.
WHERE: 7-8 MARKET PLACE, W1W 8AG
WEBSITE: WWW.BARLARAMPA.COM
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Six by Nico Canary Wharf
Six by Nico opened up their second London site earlier this year, bringing its iconic tasting menus to the table.
The new Canary Wharf site, opening 9th August, will continue Six by Nico’s famed six course menu series. The brainchild of renowned Scottish-Italian chef Nico Simeone, the menu changes every six weeks. Currently they have a ‘New York’ dedication, bringing the tastes, smells and culture of the famed city to life. Expect Eggs Benedict made with smoked ham hough terrine, brown butter hollandaise and quail egg; clam and cod chowder with barbecue leeks, lemon gel and roasted corn; and the big apple consisting of New York cheesecake, apple compote and pecan and oat granola.
WHERE: 6 CHANCELLOR PASSAGE, CANARY WHARF, E14 5EA
WEBSITE: WWW.SIXBYNICO.CO.UK
The Sea, The Sea
One opening we were extremely excited about was the arrival of The Sea The Sea as they opened up a new restaurant in Hackney.
The catch of the day will come directly from Cornwall, Devon and Dorset, but the restaurant will take on ‘a very different look to [their] Chelsea store’. Expect an immersive chef’s table, online retail, product development and specialist wholesale offering too.
WHERE: 337 ACTON MEWS, HAGGERSTON, E8 4EA
WEBSITE: WWW.THESEATHESEA.NET
September
BiBi
Contemporary Indian restaurant, BiBi, opened up its doors on 9th September with Chet Sharma (previously Moor Hall, Mugaritz and L’Enclume) heading the kitchen. The chef has brought their South Asian roots and passion for Indian cultures to the table, through a relaxed, playful menu.
Menu highlights include Loch Duart Salmon Jhal Muri; Khatti Meethi Cod; Aged Swaledale Lamb Chop Barra; and Buffalo Milk Paneer.
WHERE: 42 NORTH AUDLEY STREET, MAYFAIR, W1K 6ZR
WEBSITE: WWW.BIBIRESTAURANTS.COM
3 Henrietta Street
It’s always hugely exciting when a giant venue opens up its doors for the first time. Enter 3 Henrietta Street, a restored five floor building in the hub of Covent Garden. It was arguably September’s biggest and brightest opening. The townhouse is studded with celebrated chefs, houses three restaurants and finally, welcomed tourists and locals alike back to the city once more.
The townhouse is home to three restaurants from celebrated chefs Mark Greenaway, Luis Pous and Kimbley Lin. Alongside the restos, expect to find a new coffee house from The Gentlemen Baristas, perfect for those looking for a new joint to get their caffeine fix.
WHERE: 3 HENRIETTA STREET, COVENT GARDEN, WC2E 8LU
WEBSITE: WWW.3HENRIETTA.COM
Pan Pacific London
Pan Pacific London is an exciting new hotel that’s opening just moments from Liverpool Street station.
Nuzzled inside the hotel, designed by Yabu Pushelberg, lies three exciting restaurant and bar offerings. First up is the Straits Kitchen, their signature restaurant specialising in Singaporean-style dining. The formal dining room will serve up dishes such as Singaporean chilli soft shell crab mini sliders; Har Cheong Kai (crispy spring chicken, shrimp pasta, house-made spice and Chinese rose wine); and Native lobster nonya laksa.
There’s also a cocktail bar, named Ginger Lily, serving cocktails including Palermo, a blend of light rum, pineapple juice, Sauvignon Blanc and sugar syrup. For the afternoon tea lovers, look to The Orchid Lounge serving up a beautiful Singaporean twist on your typical afternoon favourite.
WHERE: 80 HOUNDSDITCH, EC3A 7AB
WEBSITE: WWW.PANPACIFIC.COM
Koya Ko
If you love oodles of noodles, you’ll want to try out Koya’ latest venture – Koya Ko. Now open on Broadway Market, the new restaurant, co-founded by John Devitt and Shuko Oda, is already being dubbed Koya’s ‘little sister’ to its Soho and City sites.
Following in its siblings predecessors footsteps, the East London venture continues to specialise in udon noodles, and is inspired by the fast-paced dining of the train station noodle bars in Japan. The site holds a small amount of space for indoor dining, with alfresco space spilling out onto Broadway Market.
WHERE: 12 BROADWAY MARKET MEWS, E8 4TS
WEBSITE: WWW.KOYA.CO.UK
Kudu Grill
Popular restaurant duo, Amy Corbin and Patrick Williams, opened up their fourth site, Kudu Grill, in September. The team behind the Peckham-based restaurant group Kudu Collective, their latest venture is a 50-cover restaurant on Nunhead Lane.
Centring around the braai – a South African grill using only wood and charcoal – the resto draws on chef Patrick’s South African roots. He’ll be adding a more contemporary twist to traditional food found and loved from the country. Dishes include Duck terrine with biltong scratchings; and Dry-aged t-bone with beer pickled onions and onion treacle bordelaise.
WHERE: 57 NUNHEAD LANE, SE15 3TR
WEBSITE: WWW.KUDUCOLLECTIVE.COM
Manthan
This September saw chef Rohit Ghai (of Kutir in Chelsea) return to Mayfair, bringing with him a new must-try Indian destination. Located on Maddox Street, Manthan brings to life flavours and tastes influenced by his culinary experience, both professionally and personally.
The menu is made up of dishes that champion his home-style cooking and honed techniques. Expect dishes such as Goat shami kebab in bone marrow sauce; Aloo paratha; Curry leaf pepper fish; and Andra jackfruit dosai.
WHERE: 49 MADDOX STREET, MAYFAIR, W1S 2PQ
WEBSITE: WWW.MANTHANMAYFAIR.CO.UK
Ekstedt at The Yard
Scandinavian food doesn’t get enough praise. But here to right that wrong is Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt who set up his first restaurant outside of Stockholm.
Making a beeline for Westminster, Ekstedt at The Yard is the latest culinary adventure for the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel. The flagship restaurant champions Niklas’ signature style – wood fired ‘old Nordic’ cooking. Ingredients are British seasonal, all while focusing on traditional Scandinavian cooking techniques.
WHERE: 3-5 GREAT SCOTLAND YARD, SW1A 2HN
WEBSITE: WWW.EKSTEDTATTHEYARD.COM
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The Londoner
Here to make a noise at Leicester Square is the highly anticipated, The Londoner. The hotel made way for 350 rooms, 16 storeys (!!), six concept eateries, a members club-style private area, event space, a cinema and an entire floor dedicated to wellness.
Let’s talk about food. The Londoner’s signature restaurant is Whitcomb’s, which offers Mediterranean delights perfect for all-day dining on small plates and mains. There’s influences of French cooking and Mediterranean cuisines. There’s also The Stage, a foodie venture dedicated to sophistication and Champagne.
Joshua’s Tavern offers a wide range of gins, while over on the rooftop, 8 at The Londoner, presents Japanese cuisine and innovative mixology.
WHERE: 38 LEICESTER SQUARE, WC2H 7DX
WEBSITE: WWW.THELONDONER.COM
SOMA
Brought to you from the masterminds that created popular Indian establishment, Kricket, comes their debut bar SOMA. Since opening in early September, the bar can be found serving drinks influenced by the Indian subcontinent way into the wee hours.
Cocktails on offer include the Gooseberry Chaat Margarita, a swirling mix of tequila, triple sec, homemade gooseberry cordial and a touch of chaat masala; and the Pickled Mooli Martini with vodka, dry vermouth, lightly pickled mooli and fennel oil.
WHERE: 12-14 DENMAN STREET, W1D 7HL
WEBSITE: WWW.SOMASOHO.COM
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Galvin Bar & Grill
Michelin-starred brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin opened up a new restaurant earlier this autumn, focusing on ethically sourced produce.
This new restaurant, housed in the dining room of Kimpton Fitzroy London, is rooted in British cooking but offers a modern day twist, drawing on the other cultures to reflect the diversity of modern Britain. Having been open for a few months already, we can confirm it’s a huge success!
Those yet to try can expect to tuck into dishes such as a salad of Williams pear, caramelised walnuts and Oxford blue cheese; turbot t-tone with fennel, potato terrine and a herb butter sauce; and Yorkshire grain-fed chicken cooked with smoked garlic, girolles and hasselback potatoes.
WHERE: KIMPTON FITZROY LONDON, 1-8 RUSSELL SQUARE, BLOOMSBURY, WC1B 5BE
WEBSITE: WWW.KIMPTONFITZROYLONDON.COM
October
Rita’s
At long last! The anticipated wait for east London restaurant, Rita’s, is over as the owners, Gabriel Pryce and Missy Flynn, opened up a new home and concept in Soho, ten years after the original pop-up in Dalston.
An exciting new step for the duo, Rita’s in Soho is inspired by nostalgic, personal experiences, as well as the pair’s travels around America. Bringing the culture to life through food, you can expect dishes such as Jalapeño popper gildas, their signature hot bean devilled eggs; barbecued beef tartare with garlic, raw vegetables and lots of herbs, salt cod taquitos; a vegan ‘cacio e pepe’; larger dishes include grilled sugar pit pork collar, whole fish a la plancha and steak dinner for two served with all the trimmings to be making their way onto the menu. Of course a finale slice of the house-made key lime pie is a must-try.
American influences leak their way into the interior design too. There are booths reminiscent of a classic American diner, topped with crisp white table cloths and a dazzling bar will take centre stage, finished with rustic Mexican tiles.
WHERE: 49 LEXINGTON STREET, SOHO, W1F 9AP
WEBSITE: WWW.RITASDINING.COM
Isola
Joining the award-winning and hugely popular San Carlo Group – the hospitality group behind Selfridges’ Alto and its Dior pop-up – is Isola.
Located on St Christopher’s Place, Isola is a brand new Italian all-day dining brasserie and bar. Spread across two floors, the 220-cover restaurant has made way for a beautiful rosa pink marble topped feature bar and an exciting new alfresco dining terrace, somewhere we’ll happily spend our summer days in 2022. The interiors draw hugely from the islands of southern Italy, bringing natural materials, peach tones, rattan and striking artwork to centre focus.
Following suit, the menu is a memorable moment for all, taking inspo from Sicily, Sardinia and Capri. Enjoy sharing spaghetti granseola, as well as classic San Carlo dishes including the ever-popular, tartufo e porcini ravioli.
WHERE: ST CHRISTOPHER’S PLACE, W1U 1AY
WEBSITE: WWW.SANCARLO.CO.UK
Chourangi
Arriving on Old Quebec Street in early October was Chourangi, the brainchild of chef-turned-leading Indian restaurateur Anjan Chatterjee and his friend, Aditya Ghosh.
Named after Chowringhee, the oldest quarter of Calcutta, the restaurant brings the flavours and culture of the area to life. Calcutta cuisine is a really unique blend of British, Dutch, Armenian, French, Portuguese and Chinese flavours, so this new restaurant really will be a feast for flavour.
Hero menu dishes include the prawn and crab parcels; banana flower croquettes; slow roasted kosha lamb; and aam aachar hilsa.
WHERE: 3 OLD QUEBEC STREET, W1H 7AF
WEBSITE: WWW.CHOURANGI.CO.UK
Manteca
The famed pop-up from Chris Leach opened its doors to its first bricks and mortar restaurant this October. Known best for focusing on nose to tail cooking, this new permanent site sees Chris’ team install an exciting glass-panelled hanging room for all of their in-house butchery and salumi. The menu is inspired by Chris’ travels in and around Italy.
WHERE: 49-51 CURTAIN ROAD, EC2A 3PT
WEBSITE: WWW.MANTECARESTAURANT.CO.UK
Lina Stores
This October saw Lina Stores open up in Square Mile’s Bloomberg Arcade, bringing their signature antipasti dishes and deli delights to the city.
Launched on the 15th, the restaurant menu features house favourites, including bruschetta of chicken livers and crispy sage; friarielli and chilli; and tomato and basil. As well as pasta saviours like pumpkin agnolotti with butter sage and hazelnuts; truffle tagliolini; and Mafaldine alla carbonara.
The 90-cover location will of course bring its signature pistachio and white stripes, plus a mezzanine space perfect for private dining.
WHERE: 19 BLOOMBERG ARCADE, EC4N 8AR
WEBSITE: WWW.LINASTORES.CO.UK
The Barbary Next Door
The Barbary has a new little sister! Founders Layo and Zoe Paskin set up a smaller restaurant adjacent to the popular Covent Garden spot, serving Moorish Spanish and North African spices and flavours.
The Barbary’s head chef Daniel Alt is leading the way in the kitchen, while wine director and sommelier Honey Spencer will tackle the wine bar, focusing on Spanish, French and Moroccan bottles.
WHERE: 16A NEAL’S YARD, SEVEN DIALS, WC2H 9DP
WEBSITE: WWW.THEBARBARYNEXTDOOR.CO.UK
Oxeye
Located in Embassy Gardens, Oxeye will be the debut restaurant from chef owner Sven Hanson Britt. The fine dining restaurant features an exciting tasting menu crafted by Sven, his partner Kae Shibata and their talented team, featuring dishes such as Irish coast sea urchin with potato dumpling and smoked butter; and raw razor clams, apple marigold, egremont russet and Tokyo turnip.
There’s also Bar Rex at Oxeye, a wine bar and shop that showcases sharing plates, perfect for grazing on. Expect over 300 British wines to be on offer, from British favourites like Nyetimber and Hambleton onto some further afield.
WHERE: 14 NEW UNION SQUARE, EMBASSY GARDENS, SW11 7AX
WEBSITE: WWW.OXEYERESTAURANT.CO.UK
Lilly’s at 3 Henrietta Street
World-class pastry chef Kimberly Lin opened her new cafe at 3 Henrietta Street this October. Tucked inside the lively new townhouse, Lilly’s features dishes and interiors inspired by the elements, gems and signs of the zodiac.
Having worked at the likes of The Corinthia, Claridges and Dominique Ansel, Kimberly brings her traditional patisserie expertise and creativity to create a fun all-day menu. Open from breakfast to the evening, expect brunch favourites alongside dishes inspired by her travels, such as Weligama scrambled eggs, a Sri Lankan twist on eggs.
Come lunchtime there are larger plates of masala fries; roasted cauliflower shawarma grain bowls with quinoa, kale and a lemon tahini dressing; and Levantine pita nachos with spiced carrot pecan mince and garlic.
Of course, Kimberly also brings her noteworthy desserts and baked goods along for the ride. Think rum baba served with brown butter crushed pears and crème fraîche Chantilly and a selection of celebration cakes, perfect for a really special occasion.
WHERE: 3 HENRIETTA STREET, COVENT GARDEN, WC2E 8LU
WEBSITE: WWW.3HENRIETTA.COM
Porte Noire
Luther star, Idris Elba, has joined forces with David Farber, founder of Connaught Wine Cellars, to launch an exciting bar and shop. Porte Noire celebrates the brand itself, offering a wide selection of international wines, cheese and charcuteries, and a brasserie-style menu.
Hosting space for up to 70 guests, the new bar and shop is home to around 800 wine bins, as well as one of the largest fine wine tasting rooms in London. Expect rare wines, many of which will be available to purchase by the bottle too.
On the food menu, there are French brasserie favourites, from Oeuf meurette – a classic Burgundian dish of poached eggs in a rich red wine sauce; and Slow cooked beef cheek with pommes purée and leek persillade.
WHERE: GASHOLDER 10 UNIT A, 1 LEWIS CUBITT SQUARE, N1C 4BY
WEBSITE: WWW.PORTENOIRE.CO.UK
November
Dai Chi
Landing in Soho this November was Dai Chi, a new Japanese-inspired kushikatsu restaurant. Brought to us from the team behind Angelina in Dalston, the restaurant explores the art of deep-frying the highest quality vegetables, fish and meat on traditional kushi skewers.
Modern Japanese flavours are evident, from the chestnut and smoked soy, to Carabinero red prawns. Expect skewers of shiso, shitake and hazelnut; lotus root, goma and black sesame whipped with tofu and aged balsamic; lobster tail and hokkaido; and lamb neck with ginger, rosemary and soy topped with a harissa and mustard garnish.
WHERE: 16A D’ARBLAY STREET, SOHO, W1F 8EA
WEBSITE: WWW.DAICHI.LONDON
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Fallow
The trio behind Fallow have opened up a permanent restaurant this November, following the overwhelming success of their residency of Heddon Street. Now open on St James’s Market, the 150-cover site makes way for a dining room with a bar, wraparound terrace and, excitingly, seven-seater chef’s counter, perfect for those who love seeing all of the kitchen action unfold in front of them.
The menu features plates such as salmon belly with marrowbone brioche and chive; a salmon mousse laden with fresh herbs and served in the bone with a laminated marrow brioche; and Fallow deer tartare.
WHERE: 2 ST JAMES’S MARKET, SW1Y 4RP
WEBSITE: WWW.FALLOWRESTAURANT.COM
Yatay
Now open in Chinatown is Yatay, a new robatayaki restaurant and bar serving up a selection of classic robatayaki skewers, raw dishes, salads and sharing plates. The menu has been crafted by head chef Marco Ardemagni (ex SUSHISAMBA) and offers a selection of dishes that fuse traditional Japanese techniques with modern ideas.
Hero dishes include stuffed shiso leaves with spiced organic chicken, garlic and lime tensoyu; monk fish karaage with gochujang mayo; and tsukune meatballs with confit egg yolk skewes. Save room for dessert – the fried milk bread doughnut with matcha and sesame custard is one to watch.
WHERE: 22 WARDOUR STREET, W1D 6QQ
WEBSITE: WWW.YATAYSOHO.CO.UK
mallow
A really exciting opening for our plant-based readers, the team behind Mildreds have opened a new concept in Borough Market. mallow offers all-day dining focusing on sustainability, seasonality and provenance.
Head of Food Development for Mildreds, Sarah Wasserman is behind the menu and many of the ingredients including vegan feta, flatbreads, pickles and spice blends will all be made on site. Hero dishes include porcini truffle croquettes, leeks and aioli; shiitake dashi, udon, mushroom sesame tempeh and daikon; and the kumquat lemon meringue pie.
Interiors wise, expect a modern design with floral painted walls, marbled tables and velvet booths.
WHERE: 1 CATHEDRAL PLACE, BOROUGH MARKET, SE1 1TL
WEBSITE: WWW.MALLOWLONDON.COM
Warehouse
The Conduit club has opened up a new landmark site in Covent Garden and nuzzled inside is its first public restaurant, Warehouse. The restaurant, which launched this November, is led by Brendan Eades, previously head chef at Silo, and sustainability will be at the forefront.
On the interiors front, expect hand-painted tiles, hand-woven curtains and baskets, paved flooring and reclaimed furniture throughout. While the menu is centred around bold flavours and seasonality. They’ll be working with sustainable suppliers, including day-boat fish suppliers, organic dairy farmers and ancient grain producers, helping to drive the movement forward.
WHERE: 6 LANGLEY STREET, COVENT GARDEN, WC2H 9JA
WEBSITE: WWW.WAREHOUSELONDON.COM
The Maine Mayfair
Another giant townhouse has opened up in London this fall is The MAINE Mayfair. The townhouse will boast 350 covers spread across three floors, as well as a year-round secret terrace tucked away in the former stables.
Guests can expect a brasserie style menu inspired by founder Joey Ghazal’s childhood summers spent in Maine and Vermont. The Tavern will serve up oysters, and small plates, while The Drawing Room and Terrace will boast mussels mariniere; steak frites; and spicy shrimp linguine. The Brasserie itself will serve New York sirloin; angry lobster pasta; and cauliflower tacos.
WHERE: 6 MEDICI COURT, W1S 1JY
WEBSITE: WWW.THEMAINEMAYFAIR.COM
116 Pall Mall Champagne Bar by Searcys
116 Pall Mall has unveiled a new bar, offering Londoners a new secret hideout to explore with friends over a glass (or two) of fizz. The Champagne Bar by Searcys, hidden underground the Grade-I listed building, features an array of bubbles, creative cocktails, British bites and a roster of exciting upcoming events.
Guests are invited to sink into the plush navy-blue seating, gazing around at the vaulted ceilings, exposed brickwork and long wood-topped bar, plus a private dining room, which seats up to 50.
WHERE: 116 PALL MALL, SW1Y 5ED
WEBSITE: WWW.116PALLMALL.COM
Coppa Club Putney
The Coppa Club is expanding! And this November saw the popular restaurant group land in Putney, bringing their riverside igloos in tow.
Just a short walk from the station, Coppa Club Putney’s interiors draw on the boating heritage in the area. Guests can expect to find a library snug area abrim with bookcases, cosy sofas and a roaring fireplace, as well as a dining area and bar perfect for catch-ups and parties over the festive season. Not forgetting of course the igloos, which right now boast a pink and green theme thanks to its collaboration with Laurent-Perrier Champagne.
On the menu, there’ll be a mix of British and Mediterranean classics, from smoked haddock and salmon fish cakes to parmesan croquettes and buckwheat and rye pancakes.
WHERE: 29 BREWHOUSE LANE, PUTNEY, SW15 2JX
WEBSITE: WWW.COPPACLUB.CO.UK
Hithe + Seek
The Westin London City opened its doors this 1st November – and the hotel will be beginning a stunning new destination wine bar with it…
Boasting views across the River Thames, Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe, Hithe + Seek is home to plush furnishings and an extensive wine list of up to 80 wines. It’ll be hosting a monthly wine club that Londoners can join too, think wine tastings and exclusive discounts. The food menu will pair perfectly alongside the wines, from grilled Galatian octopus with rice and saffron aioli to wild trout tiradito with crispy quinoa.
WHERE: 60 UPPER THAMES STREET, EC4V 3AD
WEBSITE: WWW.MARRIOTT.CO.UK
Panton Yokocho
Journey to Japan in an instance with the launch of Panton Yokocho, a new restaurant launched from the team who brought us Heddon Yokocho.
Open from 11th November, the new restaurant boasts 120 covers and champions the best of regional ramen from the cold island of northern Japan through to the balmy south. Expect a menu celebrating the history of ramen, udon and soba, through dishes such as Sapporo Miso, a miso-based chicken and pork broth ramen, to Prawn Tempura Udon or Soba, topped with light and crispy prawn tempura, wakame seaweed spring onion and kamaboko fish cake.
WHERE: 35A PANTON STREET, SW1Y 4EA
WEBSITE: WWW.RAMENYOKOCHO.COM
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December
The restaurant champions the best of tradition, ingredients, flavours, smells and cooking techniques that have stretched across the Levant and Ottoman pinnacle for more than 3,000 years.
Jeru
A stunning new Middle Eastern restaurant has landed on Mayfair’s Berkeley Street this month. Named Jeru, the restaurant champions the best of tradition, ingredients, flavours, smells and cooking techniques that have stretched across the Levant and Ottoman pinnacle for more than 3,000 years.
There are three aspects to this beautifully designed new venue. First up is the restaurant, which opened on 2nd December, offering up a space for guests to soak up the theatrics of dining. The menu is bursting with mezze options, cured meats, charcoal roasted meats and fish.
There’s also the bakery that’s set to be home to flakey pastries, warming bread and sweet delicacies. By night, it’ll transform into a wine bar. Lastly, there’s Layla Bar, a new destination for fine wines, spirits, cocktails and sounds. The bakery and bar will open in January.
WHERE: 11 BERKELEY STREET, MAYFAIR, W1J 8DS
WEBSITE: WWW.JERU.CO.UK
The Bloomsbury Bar Club
Cocktail lovers, listen in… The Bloomsbury Bar Club has reopened! Now you have another bar to add to your ever-growing bucket list of destinations to try out in the capital…
Centred around the Bloomsbury Set, the group who rejected Victorian ideologies of religion and explored new ways of spiritual meaning through art, writing, kinships and belief in an interconnected universe, the bar is one to visit for those who love Tarot. Their array of 14 cocktails all correspond to 14 states of mind or being, linked to a special deck of Tarot cards.
Book in for a table and sip on the likes of Black Narcissus ‘Obsessive’ made with Diplomatico Planas Rum, Belsazar Riesling Vermouth, passion fruit extract, kumquat Liqueur and Bloomsbury Club Grenadine, or the Mirror Image ‘Dreamy’, built with Mount Gay XO, beeswax infused Rémy Martin 1738, Green Chartreuse, Absinthe and blackberry tincture.
WHERE: 16-22 GREAT RUSSELL STREET, WC1B 3NN
WEBSITE: WWW.THEBLOOMSBURYCLUB.COM
Mao Chow Express
Julian Denis, the chef behind Mao Chow, the restaurant specialising the bold flavours, vibrant colours and shots of baijiu, has launched a brand new concept, and it’s just opened its doors!
The new project with chef Harry Fox, named Mao Chow Express, has landed at Boxpark Shoreditch and will see Mao Chow’s signature style rise through the modern food court setting. The new space will be bringing 90s nostalgia to the table, featuring clashing colours of yellow, pink and chequered floor tiles and powerful flavours of chilli peppers and vinegar that linger in the air.
The best part? It’s all vegan! Expect to be munching through the likes of ‘prawn’ toast; kung pao ‘chicken’; sweet fluffy char siu bao; and Cantonese ‘beef jerky’ fried rice.
They’ll be donating a percentage of the profits too, to the Hackney Chinese Community Centre, which helps meet specific needs and support the welfare of the local community.
WHERE: BOXPARK SHOREDITCH, 2-10 BETHNAL GREEN ROAD, E1 6GY
WEBSITE: WWW.MAO-CHOW.COM
Roketsu
We’ve been waiting for Roketsu for sometime now. We first reported the extraordinary launch of Daisuke Hayashi’s new London restaurant back in April but we finally have an opening date – 7th December!
The restaurant, Roketsu, will give Londoners the chance to experience some of the finest Kaiseki flavours, combinations and traditions from one of the world-best Kaiseki masters globally. There’s a stunning sounding ten-course menu, priced at £190 per person, featuring an array of traditional Japanese dishes and seasonal ingredients.
WHERE: 12 NEW QUEBEC STREET, W1H 7RW
WEBSITE: WWW.ROKETSU.CO.UK
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miscusi
A new Italian pasta sensation has landed in London! However, miscusi is a little different from your typical restaurant, as it’s the UK’s first restaurant to introduce a new concept that rewards customers for choosing dishes that are good for the planet.
How? With sustainability at the forefront of their mission, the four pasta dishes on the menu with the lowest carbon footprint will earn diners double points to spend through the M loyalty scheme. Essentially you’ll be able to collect four ‘seed’ points for every £1 spent and this is doubled for those who choose the low carbon dishes. For every 500 seeds, you’ll receive a £5 voucher towards your next meal.
The restaurant itself prides itself on creating nutritionally balanced meals with the best ingredients. Menu favourites include Pacchero Tricolore, made with green pistachio, white burrata and red tomato sauce; Cacio Pepe Funghi, made with mushrooms in a creamy cheese and pepper sauce; and the all time British favourite of Carbonara.
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WHERE: 23 SLINGSBY PLACE, COVENT GARDEN, WC2H 9DL
WEBSITE: WWW.MISCUSI.UK
