London’s culinary landscape is a relentless, delicious whirlwind, constantly evolving with new flavors and innovative concepts. Sifting through the sheer volume of exciting 'new restaurant openings London must try' can feel like a full-time job. But as an experienced specialist, I've done the groundwork, identifying the true standouts that promise unforgettable meals and redefine what it means to eat well in the capital. This guide goes beyond mere listings, diving into why these particular spots deserve your immediate attention.

At a Glance: Your Blueprint for London's Hottest Tables

  • Navigate the Buzz: Quickly identify which new openings align with your dining preferences and occasion.
  • Uncover Star Dishes: Pinpoint the must-order items that define each restaurant's culinary identity.
  • Match the Vibe: Understand the atmosphere, from intimate bistros to buzzy communal spaces.
  • Strategize Your Visit: Get insights on booking, ideal times, and what to expect.
  • Explore Diverse Cuisines: Journey through modern European, regional Italian, authentic Thai, and more.
  • Anticipate What's Next: Stay ahead with a preview of upcoming culinary events.

When Culinary Legends Go Solo: Star Chef Debuts

London’s most seasoned culinary talents are stepping out with their own ventures, bringing years of expertise and a fresh vision to the dining scene. These openings are often the hardest to get into for a reason: they deliver consistent excellence and inventive dishes.
74 Charlotte St by Ben Murphy, Fitzrovia: Chef Ben Murphy’s first solo project is a masterclass in modern European elegance. It's a calm, sophisticated room anchored by a stunning crescent cocktail bar, making it ideal for a polished dinner. Don’t skip the milk bread, served with a heavenly beurre noisette and hummus; it’s an unexpected star. The butter-poached lobster tail and perfectly pink Iberica presa pork are testament to Murphy’s precise technique, while an old-school ice cream trolley delivers seasonal desserts with a touch of nostalgia.
The Elizabeth, Belgravia: Legendary chef Anthony Demetre returns with an intimate, Parisian-style bistro offering modern British cooking. The concise, three-course menu is a confident curation of classics like a perfectly executed pâté en croûte and steamed Cornish sea bream served with a rich bouillabaisse. Look out for their exceptional value set lunch and early dinner menu, offering two courses for £25 or three for £29.50 – a rare find for this caliber in Belgravia.
AngloThai, Marylebone: From John and Desiree Chantarasak, this debut restaurant seamlessly blends bold Thai flavors with seasonal British ingredients. AngloThai offers an à la carte menu by day and a sophisticated tasting menu by night. This Michelin-starred establishment quickly became one of 2024's most sought-after reservations, a testament to its innovative approach to contemporary Thai-British cuisine.
The Lavery, South Kensington: Inside a Grade II-listed townhouse, chef Yohei Furuhashi (formerly of River Café) leads this elegant modern European restaurant. The menu showcases Mediterranean seasonality harmonized with British ingredients. Expect dishes like grilled squid with borlotti beans and Scottish sea trout baked in fig leaves. Their three-course set lunch at £38 offers excellent value for the quality.

Global Gastronomy, London-Style: A Culinary World Tour

London’s diversity shines brightest in its dining scene, with new openings constantly pushing the boundaries of international cuisine. From fiery Thai to comforting Italian, these spots bring authentic flavors with a distinctly London twist. For a deeper dive into the broader landscape of what's currently captivating the capital's food enthusiasts, you might find our main guide helpful: Discover trending London eats.

Italian Ingenuity: From Roman Osterias to Modern Trattorias

Motorino, Fitzrovia: Stevie Parle and Luke Ahearne’s Motorino offers a lively, modern London-Italian experience. The open kitchen buzzes with energy, making it suitable for any occasion. The agnolotti carbonara, a clever take on classic carbonara in pasta pockets, is a must-try. Other highlights include the old spot chop and the delicate Cornish blonde ray. Opened in October, it’s already a hit.
Il Bambini Club, Hoxton: Located within The Hoxton hotel, this chic trattoria-style Italian is both warm and beautifully furnished, featuring an inviting open kitchen. Start with refreshing yellowfin tuna tartare or burrata with panzanella. Mains like meatballs with whipped ricotta and roasted sea bass offer comforting yet refined options. The generous tiramisu is the perfect, indulgent ending.
Lupa, Highbury: A charming neighborhood Italian, Lupa channels the spirit of Roman osterias. Chef Naz Hassan’s concise menu boasts punchy martinis and standout dishes like deep-fried courgette flowers stuffed with burrata. The cacio e pepe is impeccably creamy, and the burnished porchetta is a visual and culinary delight. Don’t miss the feather-light and creamy tiramisu.
Osteria Angelina, Shoreditch: An intriguing offshoot of Dalston’s Angelina, this spot offers a unique casual Italian and Japanese fusion. With an open kitchen and pasta studio, it’s a dynamic space. Small plates such as nori-flecked focaccia and tuna belly crudo set the tone. The kombu and truffle tortellini is a highlight among the pastas, and the bruléed black sesame cheesecake provides a distinctive dessert.
Babbo, St John's Wood: This smart yet relaxed Italian trattoria serves updated classics with finesse. You’ll appreciate the generous bread basket and perfectly executed zucchini fritti and veal tonnato. For mains, the lobster spaghetti and grilled lamb chops are excellent choices, with potatoes al forno as a stellar side. The tiramisu here is a true standout.

Fiery Flavors from Asia: Thai, Vietnamese & Beyond

som saa, Shoreditch: Reopened after a fire, som saa is back with its authentic regional Thai cuisine, now with a lively "bar-snack energy." Begin with small, addictive nibbles like deep-fried cashews (tua phrik krob) and crisp chicken skin (nang gai thort). Signature dishes include their excellent BBQ chicken (gai yaang) and five-spice soy-braised pork (mu parlow). A good strategy is to order 4-5 small dishes, then add a curry and rice; the daily som dtam is always recommended.
Cô Thành, Covent Garden: Inspired by Ho Chi Minh's famed "Lunch Lady," Cô Thành is a vibrant Vietnamese canteen specializing in noodle soups. The fragrant bún bò huế (beef noodle soup) and seafood-packed bún Thái are signature dishes. Unique yellow chillies are provided to infuse into your broth for an extra kick. Desserts include kem chuối-inspired ice cream and a rum-laced tiramisu.
Khao-Sō-i, Soho: Named after the iconic Chiang Mai curry noodle dish, chef Win Srinavakool’s spot in Soho focuses on fiery Northern Thai cuisine, enhanced by smoke from a wood-fired grill. Start with the moo ping (pork belly skewers) and tum khanun (jackfruit salad). The namesake khao soi, available with chicken or beef, is highly customizable with coconut cream, chilli, herbs, and crisp noodles. Pair it with an ice-cold Neckstamper pale ale.
Platapian, Soho: From the team behind Patara, Platapian offers a stylish Thai dining experience with surprising dishes. Highlights include roasted cabbage with fish sauce and chillies, pandan-leaf wrapped miang kham scallop, and short rib beef in five-spice ‘paloh’ with grated salted egg yolk. The pandan crème brûlée is a unique dessert. For an interactive experience, ask for a counter seat.
Lai Rai, Peckham: This dinky, new-school Vietnamese spot in Peckham offers fuss-free snacks and cold beers, with playful twists on familiar flavors – notably, no pho. By day, it serves bánh mì and Vietnamese coffee. In the evening, expect prawn lollies and grilled betel leaf beef with a coffee barbecue jus. Don’t miss the unique ice cream flavors, including fish sauce vanilla caramel.

Mediterranean & Spanish Sunshine: Grill-Fired & Coastal

ALTA, Soho: A sophisticated, two-floor addition to Kingly Court, ALTA focuses on northern Spanish cuisine under the direction of Rob Roy Cameron (ex-El Bulli). Its wood-fired grill is central to the fire-fueled techniques. Must-orders include the smoked Txistorra pork sausages and salt-baked Charlotte potatoes with mojo verde butter. This spot arrived with intense anticipation in September.
Legado, Shoreditch: Nieves Barragán Mohacho (of Sabor fame) brings regional Spanish cuisine to a contemporary Shoreditch setting. Order 3-4 dishes per person to share, such as pan tomate, tempura piquillo peppers, and the highly recommended ibérico lagarto pork atop mushroom rice. For the adventurous, the deep-fried half pig’s head offers a memorable main.
Pyro, London Bridge: Headed by Yiannis Mexis (ex-Hide), this light-filled, open-kitchen Greek restaurant lets smoke and fire take center stage. The essential potato pita, richly roasted pork pluma skewers, and alder wood-cooked lamb are standout dishes. Finish with portokalopita and citrus leaf ice cream for a refreshing end.
Wildflowers, Belgravia: A stylish restaurant and wine bar with a strong Mediterranean focus. Dishes are cooked over coal in an open kitchen. Enjoy "Romeo & Juliets" (cheese and quince one-bites) or a substantial Galician ex-dairy ribeye. The upstairs wine bar boasts a good selection by the glass and Italian-style snacks.

Unexpected & Authentic: Caribbean, Ukrainian & Mexican Twists

2210 by NattyCanCook, Herne Hill: Nathaniel Mortley, inspired by The Clink HMP Brixton, presents reimagined Caribbean food with Bajan, Jamaican, and Guyanese influences. Start with grilled roti triangles and scotch bonnet butter. Hearty, shareable mains include jerk chicken with mango salsa and pan-seared spiced duck breast with a confit leg croquette. The deep-fried apple crumble with coffee chantilly is a unique dessert, and the scotch bonnet margaritas pack a punch.
SINO, Notting Hill: Polina Sychova and Eugene Korolev lead this Ukrainian fine dining experience, rooted in Ukraine's agricultural heritage. Expect elevated dishes like potato and sorrel waffles with smoked pike roe, and bonbon-style chicken kyiv. The honey cake riff is a notable dessert. The drinks menu features Eastern European wines and nostalgic cocktails.
Tatar Bunar, Shoreditch: This spot shines a spotlight on southern Ukrainian cuisine, drawing inspiration from Alex Cooper's family traditions. The interiors feature natural textures and materials. Dishes such as forshmak (herring pâté), bryndza cheese with tomatoes and sprats, and creamy banush offer authentic flavors. Mains from the grill include lamb chops and rabbit, while desserts like crème brûlée with a varenyk dumpling inside are hearty and unique.
Fonda, Heddon Street: Santiago Lastra (of Kol fame) brings an informal regional Mexican option, named after traditional family-run inns. A clay comal is central to the kitchen, and guests receive a trio of salsas for customization. Signature dishes include sikil pak, Marmite beer-battered baja fish, and a complex 60-ingredient short rib mole. Creative cocktails utilize British ingredients for a unique twist.
Dué, London (Upcoming): Promising Mexican cuisine from Jesús Durón (ex-Pujol) and restaurateur Lindsay Jang (Yardbird), Dué is one to watch. An opening date is TBC, but the pedigree suggests it will be a major player.

The Vibe Setters: More Than Just a Meal

Some restaurants aren't just about the food; they're about the atmosphere, the concept, and the overall experience. These spots stand out for their unique energy and unforgettable setting.
Island, Kings Cross: Elevating surf and turf, Island features cult chefs Tom Brown (surf) and Brad Carter (turf) behind the menu. Located on the top floor of Mare St Market, it’s a warm, welcoming space with a prominent open grill. Highlights include lamb and clam skewers, seaweed flatbreads, whole grilled John Dory with caper-spiked butter, and aged dairy ribeye with an umami peppercorn sauce.
Ria's, Soho: For something cosy and laid-back, Ria's in Soho specializes in deep-dish Detroit-style pizza, made with dough fermented for up to 72 hours, perfectly paired with natural wines. The House Pie (ricotta, basil, lemon drizzle) and Soho Chilli Crisp (nduja, Lao Gan Ma chilli oil) are highly recommended. Finish with a playful deep-fried Mars bar with soft serve.
Noisy Oyster, Shoreditch: From the Firebird team, Noisy Oyster is a sleek, modern bistro focusing on sustainable seafood. Start with an icy Oyster martini. Small plate wins include raw scallop crudo with pickled raspberries and stracciatella with anchovies. Don't miss the Guinness bread with caviar, or for a truly intriguing experience, try the soft-serve Jersey ice cream with caviar for dessert.
Crunch, Soho: This slick, all-day spot has brought cult-followed sandwiches to a permanent address. The main event is the Soho-exclusive steak sandwich in a crisp-edged brioche. Sides like addictive thousand-layer crispy potatoes and deep-fried lasagne bites are also must-tries. A breakfast menu is coming soon, expanding its appeal.

Neighborhood Heroes & Gastropub Gold

Sometimes, the best new spots are the ones that integrate seamlessly into a neighborhood, offering high-quality food in a relaxed, local setting. Gastropubs, in particular, are seeing a renaissance, blending pub charm with serious culinary ambition.
The Salusbury, Queens Park: This modern European neighborhood restaurant and pub exudes a confident new energy. The dining room offers a calm retreat, perfect for unwinding. Standout dishes include crisp parmesan churros, silky Dorset crab linguine, and roast cod with mussels in a cider broth. The salted caramel tart provides a well-judged dessert.
Kerfield Arms, Camberwell: From The Baring team, this stripped-back Victorian pub delivers modern European cooking with flair. Begin with a silky house martini or fried pizza dough fingers with taramasalata. Mains like shish kebab with squid and lardo, and Yorkshire hogget chops with violet artichokes showcase inventive combinations. Strawberry and chamomile custard doughnuts are a dessert highlight.
Canal, Westbourne Park: Tucked away in a cobbled mews by the Grand Union Canal, Canal is a precise and flavor-packed spot focusing on modern, urban food with proud provenance (Layla sourdough, Coombeshead Farm charcuterie). Highlights include a fat diner-style cheeseburger, scallops with nduja butter, and a boozy tiramisu.
The Knave of Clubs, Shoreditch: A lovingly restored East End pub featuring a rotisserie kitchen. Expect elevated pub classics, toasties, oysters, and excellent rotisserie chicken. Prawn scotch eggs and venison sausage rolls make great starters, and the chocolate mousse is a very good dessert. Book for lunch, as evenings are walk-in only, and dogs are welcome.
The Grill at The Hero, Maida Vale: Located above The Hero pub, this beautiful dining room focuses on sustainably sourced meat and fish cooked over an open fire. Gutsy dishes like sweetbreads with lobster gravy and grilled monkfish tail are served with elevated sides. For the best experience, book a booth facing the open kitchen.

Upcoming & Highly Anticipated: Get on the List

The churn never stops in London. Here are a few notable openings still on the horizon or very recently launched, promising to be the next big thing. Getting on their radar early is key.

  • Khao Bird, Soho (Opening November): The permanent home for Mike Palmer and Luke Larsson’s popular Northern Thai barbecued dishes. Expect robust flavors and char-grilled perfection.
  • Corenucopia, Chelsea (Opening November): A 'luxury bistro' from Three-MICHELIN-Star chef-owner Clare Smyth. This will undoubtedly be one of the hottest tickets in town.
  • Bonheur by Matt Abé, Mayfair (Opening November 4th): Matt Abé (ex-Restaurant Gordon Ramsay) opens his own venture in the famed former Le Gavroche premises. High expectations are an understatement.
  • Labombe by Trivet, Mayfair (Opened September): Chef Jonny Lake and Master Sommelier Isa Bal bring their renowned wine bar and grill-focused cooking to the COMO Metropolitan hotel.
  • Solaya, Hoxton (Opened September): Kenny Atkinson (MICHELIN-starred chef) debuts his first solo London project at the art’otel, offering southern French and Mediterranean dishes with city views from the 25th floor.
  • The Hart, Marylebone (Date TBC): Public House Group (The Pelican, The Hero) expands its gastropub empire, promising big flavors and a quality local spot.
  • Simpson’s in the Strand, London (Opening Winter): Renowned restaurateur Jeremy King is resurrecting this iconic traditional brasserie, a move sure to delight classicists.

Your Practical Playbook for Conquering London's New Tables

Navigating the influx of new restaurant openings in London doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Here’s how to dine like a seasoned expert.

  1. Understand Your Objective:
  • Special Occasion? Head for places with fine dining pedigree like 74 Charlotte St by Ben Murphy, The Elizabeth, or the upcoming Bonheur by Matt Abé.
  • Casual Catch-up? Ria's for pizza, Taco Bros for tacos, or Lai Rai for Vietnamese snacks offer a relaxed vibe without compromising on flavor.
  • Culinary Adventure? 2210 by NattyCanCook for reimagined Caribbean or SINO for Ukrainian fine dining will push your boundaries.
  • Neighborhood Gem? The Salusbury, Lupa, or The Knave of Clubs are perfect for feeling like a local insider.
  1. Booking Strategies for Hot Spots:
  • Set Reminders: For highly anticipated openings, follow their social media and sign up for newsletters. Booking windows often open weeks or even months in advance.
  • Off-Peak Advantage: Lunch bookings or early/late dinner slots (5:30 PM or 9:30 PM onwards) are often easier to secure.
  • Walk-in Wisdom: Some spots, like The Knave of Clubs in the evenings, are specifically for walk-ins. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. Others, like Bubala, often reserve a portion of tables for walk-ins.
  • Counter Seating: Often available for walk-ins or easier to book, offering a dynamic view of the kitchen, as at Platapian or Island.
  1. Decoding the Menu:
  • Small Plates/Sharing: Many new spots, especially those with Middle Eastern (like Bubala) or Spanish (like Legado) influences, encourage ordering multiple small plates. Aim for 3-4 per person to share.
  • Chef's Recommendations: Don't hesitate to ask your server for signature dishes. They are usually the ones that best represent the chef's vision.
  • Pacing: Communicate your preferred pace with the kitchen if ordering many dishes to share, especially in a bustling environment.
  1. Consider the Drinks List:
  • Natural Wines: Increasingly common, particularly at places like Ria's. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations if you're new to the style.
  • Creative Cocktails: Many places, like 2210 by NattyCanCook with its scotch bonnet margaritas or Fonda with its British-ingredient cocktails, pride themselves on inventive concoctions.
  • Beer Pairings: Spots like Khao-Sō-i even suggest specific local beers that complement their fiery dishes.

Quick Answers: Your New Restaurant FAQ

Q: How do I choose from so many new openings?
A: Start by filtering by cuisine type, then consider the occasion (casual vs. celebratory). Next, look at the "vibe" – do you prefer intimate or buzzy? Finally, check the price point to match your budget. Focusing on a specific dish you're craving (e.g., deep-dish pizza at Ria's or a great steak sandwich at Crunch) can also help narrow it down.
Q: Are new restaurants reliable, or should I wait for the buzz to die down?
A: New restaurants can be a mixed bag, but those with established chefs (like Ben Murphy, Anthony Demetre, or the teams behind Bubala and som saa) tend to open with a higher degree of polish and consistency. Waiting for a few weeks post-opening allows them to iron out initial kinks, but for the hottest tables, booking early is essential. Many offer "soft launch" periods with discounts, which can be a good way to try them out.
Q: What's the best time to visit a new restaurant for the optimal experience?
A: Weekday lunches or mid-week dinners (Tuesday-Wednesday) often provide a more relaxed experience, allowing staff to be more attentive and the kitchen to operate smoothly. Weekends are typically busier and louder. Soft launches (pre-opening trial periods) can be fun but expect minor teething issues.
Q: What should I look for beyond the food in a new restaurant?
A: Pay attention to the service style (formal, casual, informed), the lighting and acoustics (can you easily chat?), and how the space feels. A great drinks program, comfortable seating, and thoughtful details (like the ice cream trolley at 74 Charlotte St) elevate the overall experience.
Q: Are vegetarian and vegan options common in new London openings?
A: Increasingly, yes. Many new restaurants are very conscious of diverse dietary needs. Bubala, for instance, is entirely vegetarian with excellent vegan options and dedicated set menus. Other spots, while not fully plant-based, often feature creative and substantial vegetarian dishes. It's always wise to check the menu online or call ahead, especially for specific requirements.

Your Next Bite Awaits

London’s dining scene is a treasure trove of new experiences, brimming with innovative ideas and culinary passion. Don't let the sheer volume overwhelm you. By understanding the core strengths and unique offerings of each of these 'new restaurant openings London must try', you're now equipped to make informed choices that promise exceptional meals. Whether you're chasing the next Michelin star or a perfect neighborhood bite, the capital's latest culinary additions are ready to delight. Get out there and taste the future of London dining.