Last year was a big one for London’s culinary scene. 2025 marked the opening of dozens of restaurants, many of them, like Poon’s at Somerset House, welcome additions to the city’s vast dining scene. Things seem to be slowing down in 2026, although multiple new establishments are still set to debut every month early this year. Some of these eateries are delayed openings from 2025, like Simpson's in the Strand and Brasserie Angelica, both of which have been promised multiple times in recent months. Others, like Oudh 1722 and Impala Soho, are buzzy arrivals set to excite critics and diners alike. 

Although London doesn’t exactly need more Italian restaurants or additional fancy sushi spots moonlighting as nightclubs, it’s all in the approach. After a memorable debut like Sino, showcasing modern Ukrainian dishes, the arrival of DakaDaka, a Georgian restaurant, has a lot of promise. As does the revamped Simpson's in the Strand, which tragically closed during the pandemic. Certainly, many more restaurants are set to be announced—and to be delayed—in the coming months, but we’re curious to see how the culinary scene here will evolve this year. From casual to high-end, here are some of the best restaurants set to open in London in 2026.

Georgian cuisine comes to London courtesy of chef Mitz Vora. The restaurant, situated in Mayfair, promises wood-fired dishes cooked on a hearth and charcoal grill alongside Georgian wines. It will span two floors, with a dedicated wine and cocktail bar in the basement. Expect traditional offerings, like khinkali dumplings and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), and a modern, upbeat atmosphere, including a DJ. It’s a great addition to a well-established street, and an exciting approach to a cuisine that doesn’t have much of a foothold in London yet.

Part of the long-awaited Newman hotel, which is set to open its doors early this year in Fitzrovia, Brasserie Angelica is an all-day European bistro. Led by chef Christian Turner, the restaurant will offer comforting classics with Northern European influences. Gambit Bar will open alongside Brasserie Angelica, showcasing crafted cocktails, including low- and no-alcohol options, as well as bar snacks from Turner. Gambit will also host special events, like DJs and chess nights. The Newman has teased the opening of both the hotel and its restaurant and bar for what feels like years (and has changed the name of Brasserie Angelica three times), so anticipation is........

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