London's hottest restaurants right now

Taka fits perfectly into the group of London restaurants that people start recommending the second they leave. It's a compact Marylebone space with just enough vibes to feel special and a menu that changes all the time, built around British produce cooked with Japanese techniques. One week, you might get salmon tataki and popcorn shrimp, the next, it could be Wagyu sukiyaki rice or a top-notch piece of sashimi, depending on what arrives from their suppliers. 

Coming to London following success across Scandinavia, new Mayfair restaurant Punk Royale is a proven hotspot, with everyone eager to see what happens when you apply an irreverent – yet no less professional – attitude to fine dining. Surprise props, unexpected ingredients, tongue-in-cheek staff, and a relaxed, convivial atmosphere all combine to make this one of the trendiest bookings in London right now.

An enterprise by renowned chef Jason Atherton and his wife, Sael offers a celebration of British cuisine made exclusively with produce from the British Isles. The trendy venue's spacious interior is enhanced by locally sourced décor, further emphasising its British charm. At Sael, diners can select a core ingredient, which is then expertly cooked on a wood-fire grill, allowing them to personalise their dish with an array of side options. Live DJ sets ensure the lively atmosphere continues well into the evening.

Designed like something out of Neptune's kingdom, Osteria by Bocconcino is a fashionable Covent Garden venue that's turning heads with its lavish decors as well as its Italian feasts. Seated beneath a hand-painted ceiling and flowing chandeliers, guests can enjoy Mediterranean delicacies, accompanied by signature cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. The fact that it's a Bocconcino spin-off and special menus like lobster bottomless brunch add to the buzz around this trendy London restaurant. 

Novikov has been around since 2012 – an eternity in Mayfair terms – but has remained relevant and buzzy to this day. Part of its appeal lies in its venue-wide sense of style and fashion, present throughout despite the restaurant being divided into a rustically chic Italian trattoria and an effortlessly cool Asian spot. Meanwhile, the on-site lounge bar is a buzzy London spot as well, particularly on the weekly live music nights.

Walk into this buzzy London restaurant and you'll step into a grand dining room with upscale decor like chandeliers, gilded artwork, and marble tabletops – it's all a bit unexpected considering its compact size and friendly pricing. Agrodolce is riding the trend of Roman comfort food that's slowly but surely becoming a thing in London, serving pinsa-style pizzas, homemade pasta, big scoops of tiramisu and more.

Combining the glamour of Studio 54 with the pedigree of Soho mainstay 40 Dean Street is a sure-fire way to build up buzz, and that's just what 64 Old Compton Street has done. Seated in plush interiors with quirky decor, reminiscent of the legendary NYC club, you can enjoy comforting Italian cuisine crafted by the same chef as the aforementioned Soho legend – pastas, pizzas, the works. Pavement seating for a bit of people-watching is available as well.

Order one of the spicier curries at Preem and you'll certainly see why this Indian restaurant makes the list of hottest London restaurants, but it's not just the cuisine that earns it its place. Brick Lane, London's famed Curry Mile, is always a bustling destination for hungry diners in search of proper Indian cooking, and Preem is one of the best choices in the area. Especially popular during lunchtime, when City workers come flocking in, the curry house is a great place to sample warming Indian dishes in a relaxed setting.

Khao-Sō-i has reopened in Fitzrovia, bringing its Northern Thai soul food menu to a site near Oxford Circus. The original restaurant began in Chiang Mai before moving to Bangkok, where they serve their cult-favourite coconut curry, Khao So. The space is getting a fresh glow-up, and the team already tested the waters with a popular pop-up at Patara last year. Expect a casual spot serving its signature noodle soup along with small plates like Chiang Mai sausage, spicy minced pork and young jackfruit salad.

The recently opened Lilibet's offers an elevated approach to seafood, balancing classic techniques with influences from around the world. Set in Mayfair, the restaurant has a polished, airy layout that includes a dedicated cocktail bar, an oyster counter, and a leafy terrace, plus the option to dine beside a welcoming open grill. Its interiors nod to the glamour of the neighbourhood's 1920s heyday, giving the space a sense of refined nostalgia.

Plaza Khao Gaeng is heading south of the river with a new Borough Yards spot, swapping the food hall buzz of Tottenham Court Road for a double-height railway arch and a slightly scruff-chic market vibe. Expect southern Thai cooking with serious heat, plus seasonal produce from Luke Farrell's Dorset greenhouses. The menu leans into lesser-known regional dishes, like soy-braised pork hock, crab coconut curry, and a jungle curry-drenched sea bass, alongside fruity cocktails like a watermelon martini. If the Arcade original is anything to go by, this one's about to get very busy.

Crisp Pizza's cult following in Hammersmith has finally earned it a central London upgrade. Now open in Mayfair, The Marlborough brings the same thin, crispy New York-style pies to a grander setting on North Audley Street. The downstairs pizzeria keeps the focus on simple, perfect pizza while the upstairs pub, backed by The Devonshire team, keeps pints of Guinness flowing.

A new neighbourhood gem in Kentish Town, Belly Bistro brings modern Filipino flavours together with European bistro cooking, and it's already building a loyal following. The menu leans into smoke, coal and comfort: think smoked trout kinilaw, tempura cod pandesal with ikura tartar, and wagyu picanha in bistek sauce. It's a relaxed, buzzy little spot featuring low-intervention wines from small, family-owned producers. And if you order one thing, make it the ube tiramisu.

Once Pachamama East, now Lagana, and honestly, everyone's either talking about it or posting about it. The same team has reinvented the space with a breezy Mediterranean vibe, and it's hard not to be tempted. The menu leans into inventive Greek-inspired dishes, with the namesake lagana stealing the show – think puffy, oven-fresh flatbreads served with an array of dips that are just begging to be dunked into. Plus, the cocktails are also still absolutely stellar.

Canal at the Mason & Frith hotel in Westbourne Grove is already turning heads as one of London's most talked-about openings, with its two sun-drenched terraces overlooking the Grand Union Canal and a lively central bar. The Arts & Crafts–inspired interiors bring a stylish edge to the all-day dining room, while the seasonal menu champions British and European produce in dishes made to share over cocktails or linger with as the night picks up.

This weekend-only 27-seater is quickly becoming one of Islington's most talked-about restaurants. Behind it are chefs Louis Korovilas and Taylor Sessegnon-Shakespeare (ex-Pied à Terre, Bancone and more), who craft elegant French- and Italian-inspired tasting menus with a focus on seasonal produce. The space is cosy and intimate, with flickering candlelight, and an atmosphere that makes it a perfect date night.

Singburi has finally made the leap from its tiny, near-impossible-to-book Leytonstone spot to a sexy new home in Shoreditch, just steps from the station. Still family-run but now led by the next generation, the restaurant maintains its original spirit while also turning up the vibes with stylish interiors and a menu that pushes the boat out even further, think mussels in tomato and basil broth alongside their classic fiery Thai dishes.

Carbone, an iconic New York restaurant that has redefined American dining over the last ten years, has finally made its way to London. This Italian-American hotspot pairs nostalgic grandeur with contemporary polish, showcasing Murano glass lighting, velvet-draped interiors, and richly hued banquettes alongside striking modern art. On the menu, it's all about Carbone signatures like the famed spicy rigatoni alla vodka, veal parmesan, and octopus pizzaiolo.

Everyone's talking about Alta in Kingly Court, and it's easy to see why. Spanning two floors with a sun-drenched terrace, and inspired by Spain's Alta Navarra region, the open-flame grill takes centre stage, turning simple ingredients into smoky, shareable magic. Think wood-fired courgettes, Cornish mussels, and mains like aged beef sirloin or turbot head that taste even better with a friend or three. Finish with a classic Basque cheesecake and you're golden. 

Big news for burger lovers: Paris' acclaimed smashburger spot Dumbo has fired up its first UK branch. Dumbo's all about those cult-classic smashburgers, made with perfectly seared patties that are crispy around the edges, hand-cut fries, and their famous homemade nuggets, all made with the finest, responsibly sourced ingredients from local suppliers. The menu is simple, but it's all they need when they've nailed it this hard.

From the team behind Soho's Firebird comes Noisy Oyster, a Shoreditch seafood bistro and martini bar that's fast becoming the place to be in East London. Its interiors are minimalist chic while maintaining a raw industrial edge, think polished metal and exposed scaffolding. Expect seafood and seasonal vegetable dishes like smoky octopus, scallop crudo with raspberry, and red-caviar toast, all best enjoyed with one of the bar's signature mini martinis. 

Miga is a family-run Korean restaurant on trendy Mare Street that's gained a bit of a cult following since it opened back in June 2024, predominantly through word of mouth and social media buzz. It's run by two brothers, with their father heading up the kitchen, bringing a fresh take on Korean cuisine to Hackney's thriving food scene. The restaurant is constantly evolving, with dishes like their creamy bone broth, soy braised short rib and sweet potato glass noodles stealing the limelight.

Town is the West End opening everyone's talking about, the latest project from chef Stevie Parle. It's centred around regenerative farming and whole-carcass butchery, and even has its own herd of grass-fed cows in Oxfordshire. The menu is exciting with dishes like potato bread laced with honey from Parle's own bees and wood-grilled Romney Marsh hogget, all served in a room of sleek counters and polished wood.

Norbert's in East Dulwich is the little rotisserie chicken spot everyone's talking about, helmed by John Ogier of Marksman and Lasdun credentials. The cosy space comes alive with vintage tunes and serves perfectly roasted chicken alongside classic cocktails with their own twist, like a house margarita with a chicken-skin salt rim.

Lai Rai in Peckham is a neon-clad Vietnamese canteen by day and a clubby hotspot by night, serving playful versions of Saigon street food, think prawn lollipops, papaya–jellyfish salad, and twice-fried chicken. It's decked out in buttery yellows, red neon, and chrome by House of Baby. Cocktails like the 'Pho Please' or 'Vietnamese Coffee Martini' make it one of the hottest places to wine and dine in London right now.

Lupa is a cosy neighbourhood restaurant serving comforting Roman cuisine in a warm, inviting setting. The menu features regional Italian dishes like stuffed artichokes, slow-roasted porchetta, and classic lasagne, paired with aperitivos and fine Italian wines. The bold interior blends osteria charm with original Victorian details, and the fact that the restaurant is co-owned by actor Theo James adds to the buzz.

One Club Row in Shoreditch is located in a Grade II-listed building, above The Knave of Clubs, where it delivers serious vibes with its New York edge and Shoreditch attitude. The menu is chock-full of favourites like saucy burgers, lobster croquettes, and bone-in ribeye. A live pianist sets the mood, while private dining rooms upstairs offer a more intimate experience in a space once filled with flats.

Tucked away in Notting Hill, Eel Sushi Bar is an intimate ten-seater spot specialising in traditional sushi. Run by the team behind Dorian just opposite, it shares the same buzz, exclusivity, and polished crowd. The menu is elevated by a carefully curated list of fine wines.

Kol is a Michelin-starred restaurant offering vibrant Mexican cuisine using high-end ingredients like caviar and wagyu beef. Fixed menus are offered for lunch and dinner, including vegetarian choices, or you can go for the chef's table experience and enjoy what Kol's innovative test kitchen has to offer. Having won multiple awards, this is one of the hottest tables in London.

Chet's at The Hoxton in West London is all about fragrant Thai flavours with American diner vibes in a cool, retro-inspired space. Tuck into everything from green curry to chicken and roti waffles, and pick from the all-day menu that brings together bold Asian and comforting US classics, while evenings lean more into Thai dishes like larb and firecracker noodles. There's also an extensive drinks list, including wines, Asian-influenced cocktails, and shakes.

It took all of one pre-launch dinner and some social media clips for Bône to build up hype and sell out month in advance – even before opening officially. The fact that it's a snug 20-seater helps, of course, but the real appeal is that in a world of over-the-top indulgence and abundance of choice, its adherence to simple elegance sets it apart. There's a simple three-course set menu to enjoy here, highlighting flavours and quality produce.

A bakery in the morning and a restaurant from lunchtime through to the evening, Don't Tell Dad is the brainchild of Coco di Mama co-founder Daniel Land. He's brought together an impressive team to offer sweet and savoury pastries during the earlier hours, with the kitchen shifting gears later in the day to apply a deft creative touch to European-inspired dishes for lunch and dinner.

Launched by the group behind trendy all-time favourites such as Gymkhana, Ambassadors Clubhouse is a contemporary, high-end Punjabi dining spot located just off Regent Street. The expansive establishment accommodates up to 140 guests across its two levels and outdoor terrace, featuring striking elements like an opulent central bar topped with a gold dome. The menu showcases lesser-explored dishes from the Indian subcontinent, paired with a selection of tequila and mezcal-based cocktails. DJ nights are a frequent highlight on the entertainment schedule as well.

The Ledbury gained its third Michelin star in 2024 and was also declared the Best Restaurant in the UK, cementing its reputation as one of London's hottest dining destinations. This place is an ode to the British countryside, serving tasting menus that celebrate fine British ingredients. The dining room here has a refined and classic style, with tables being very much in demand.

Anything the restaurateurs behind Fallow touch seems to turn to edible gold, and it's no different with Roe, their massive new venture in Canary Wharf that can handle 1,000 covers a day. One of the hottest new openings of 2024, Roe expounds on Fallow's sustainability-minded success with features such as an aeroponic living wall and an eco-friendly 3D printed interior, with the menu placing an emphasis on venison, the most sustainable of meats available in the UK.

Cloth, a restaurant and wine bar in Farringdon, is situated in a Grade II-listed building on Cloth Fair. The venue features a bar that offers drinks and snacks, as well as a formal dining area serving lunch and dinner. The seasonal menus at this London hotspot highlight British ingredients with dishes such as brown crab and Berkswell tagliarini, or hogget sausage with chickpeas.

Supernova is a simple spot with a simple menu – a pair of smash burgers and some fries and sundaes to go with them. Thanks to a savvy social media approach and a convenient location right in the heart of London, however, it has become a seriously in-demand spot, with queues often stretching down the street at this popular restaurant. New branches are launching at a quick clip, too.

Led by chefs with experience from Kiln and Sabor, Oma draws its culinary inspiration from the Greek islands. The menu features fresh seafood and Mediterranean delights like hummus masabacha, harissa-grilled prawns, and lamb belly skewers, all complemented by an extensive 400-bin wine list. The restaurant's decor is inspired by natural landscapes, showcasing earthy tones and textures. It includes a raw bar, an open-plan kitchen, and a spacious terrace with views of Borough Market, and has generated quite the buzz among reviewers and the general public alike.

Café François is Borough Market's newest addition, offering modern French dining with classic dishes done exactly how they should be. The space is uber-trendy, with tall black-framed windows, exposed steel, wooden tables, and a glass display showcasing the day's delicious patisserie. You're right to expect timeless classics like moules marinière and steak frites, but you'll also find a selection of creative small plates, like aubergine with capers and anchovy-topped brioche. This place gets our vote as Borough Market's hottest new date night spot.

Specialising in satisfying Italian-American cuisine, Grasso in Soho quickly commanded attention when it opened in 2024. Spaghetti and meatballs is this spot's signature dish but other hearty favourites on the menu include chicken parm and pizza with vodka sauce. Set over two floors, this vibrant restaurant is modern with warm hospitality.

The Devonshire is the inaugural collaborative venture between hospitality experts Oisin Rogers, ex-landlord of The Guinea Grill, Flat Iron founder Charlie Carroll, and The Fat Duck chef Ashley Palmer. With such an stellar crew, this Soho gastropub has the makings of a culinary blockbuster. Blending classic charm with modern cuisine, it boasts the first wood ember grill of its kind in the UK and an on-site butcher.

Rated as one of the country's top restaurants, Bibi combines British and Indian ingredients to create inspiring plates of street food. Dishes are served in a low-lit venue that's full of laid-back cool. À la carte dishes and a tasting menu are available, with a wide choice of drinks on offer as well.

Brat is a sleek Shoreditch restaurant with one Michelin star, serving modern cuisine inspired by Basque cooking methods. You can expect plenty of fish and grilled food on the menu. Along with the food menu there's a sophisticated and varied wine list, which includes a monthly-changing highlight of a specific wine.

Rochelle Canteen is a welcoming sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Shoreditch, housed in a converted bike shed. The menu changes each day and offers seasonal dishes inspired by British and European cuisine. Indoor and outdoor seating is available under a canopy for comfortable dining in all weather.

Shoreditch restaurant Bistro Freddie is an intimate venue with 45 seats and old-school interiors that bring a sense of nostalgia. Quality ingredients from local suppliers are used to put together a fine dining menu of classic British recipes. Whilst the food is British, the wine list in entirely French and gives diners lots of options to choose from.

Himi is a modern take on a traditional Japanese izakaya, brought to you by the team behind acclaimed omakase restaurant Roji. You'll find this one tucked away off Carnaby Street, serving a seasonal à la carte menu of sushi, sashimi, and charcoal-grilled dishes. Drinks include a selection of wine, sake, and cocktails, with a big focus on highballs.

Story Cellar comes from acclaimed chef Tom Sellers. With attractive views over Neal's Yard and counter seating, you can sample French menus of rotisserie chicken and charcuterie as well as changing daily specials and small plates like salad or seasonal terrine. There's a sophisticated wine list and private dining is also available.

Akub in Notting Hill comes from Palestinian chef Fadi Kattan. Dishes here combine distinctive herbs and British produce to show off the diversity of the region's cuisine. The space is homey with earthy colours and textures. The wine and cocktail list also shows influences from the Middle East.

In the culinary hotspot of Borough Market, Rambutan specialises in Sri Lankan cuisine, served in an environment decorated with work by Sri Lankan artists and designers. The menu here changes frequently, dishing up street-style snacks, seasonal curries, and larger plates. There's a downstairs bar too.

Located at the edge of Smithfield Market and overlooking the capital's oldest church, Restaurant St. Barts takes its guests on a journey around the British Isles. It serves tasting menus made with fine produce. Sustainability is important here and it's reflected in the decor, which uses natural materials like stone and wood to create a warm environment.

Relocating from Peckham in 2025, Kudu has set up in Marylebone with a fresh take on South African cuisine served in a stylish space that nods to safari chic. Run by the same family, the restaurant merges bold, inventive flavours with touches of European refinement. Menus change with the seasons, and the reborn restaurant has quickly become one of the hottest opening of the year.