The best new restaurants in North London

Med Salleh has won national critical acclaim for its nostalgic Malaysian street food, rooted in the founders' childhood favourites. Highlights include the striking iced Kacang Atas dessert and the heartfelt Grandma Hainanese chicken rice, the emotional centrepiece of the menu. Served in a simple, welcoming space, the dishes turn comforting memories into deeply satisfying grown-up indulgences.

Ladudu is an independent Vietnamese eatery based in Wembley, bringing a fresh, modern take to well-loved dishes. Working with locally sourced ingredients, the kitchen reimagines staples like pho, curries, and stir-fries with a creative twist. More than just a place to eat, it's conceived as a neighbourhood hub, with its private dining room used for cookery sessions, while a dedicated kids' play area makes it especially appealing for families.

Fans of Chinese cuisine have been making a beeline for the original Dim Sum Duck in King's Cross for years, and now a second one is coming to the area. The family-run restaurant delivers big on flavour, with plump, freshly prepared dim sum turned out by a chef boasting more than three decades at the stove. Alongside the dumplings, there's a solid line-up of rice and noodle dishes, plus the titular, richly seasoned BBQ duck that's well worth the queue.

Few places outside Italy do Neapolitan pizza as well as Pizza Pilgrims. Their motto, “in crust we trust,” says it all — it's the dough that makes the magic. Using top-quality ingredients imported directly from Italy, they stay true to the authentic traditions of Naples while keeping things playful with their toppings. The King's Cross location spans two lively floors, combining the warmth of a classic Neapolitan pizzeria with a fun, retro disco atmosphere.

Hawksmoor has built its reputation as one of the country's top steak restaurants, serving everything from T-bones to ribs and burgers. Known for championing the quality of British beef, it has become a go-to spot for serious meat lovers. The St Pancras branch adds extra charm with its grand Victorian-era setting and soaring ceilings.

Led by a former Manteca chef, Casa Felicia brings a fresh take on Neapolitan cuisine to Queen's Park, weaving in seasonal influences throughout the year. This vibrant neighbourhood spot plates up the likes of linguine alla Nerano, 45-day dry-aged Florentine steak, and fritto misto showcasing the freshest daily catch, all finished with indulgent desserts.

Oui Madame is new North London restaurant shaped by owner Martin Lange's background in warm, small-town German hospitality. Its seasonal modern European menu, brushed with Mediterranean flavours, offers refined yet relaxed dishes ranging from sardine bruschetta and grilled scallops to seafood orzotto and lamb rack. With its homely setting and thoughtful wine list, the restaurant delivers an understated dining experience that feels like a true local gem.

Carmela's Pizzeria specialises in classic NYC-style pizzas with crisp yet foldable bases, perfect for easy eating. Diners can choose from a range of toppings and are welcome to customise their pizza to suit their tastes.

Island brings a fresh take on the classic surf and turf concept, helmed by two Michelin-starred chefs in the heart of North London. Set within Mare Street Market at King's Cross, the laid-back venue showcases top-tier British ingredients prepared according to American standards – think steaks, fish, lobster rolls, seafood platters, and more. Overlooking the dining space, a mezzanine-level cocktail bar offers a stylish spot to unwind with a well-crafted drink.

Embrace the spirit of Rome at Lupa, an inviting neighbourhood spot where the comfort food of the Eternal City takes centre stage. This intimate Italian restaurant showcases the flavours of Rome and its surrounding areas, dishing up favourites like stuffed artichoke hearts, slow-roasted porchetta, and lasagne al forno. The drinks list leans into Italian tradition with aperitivos and regional wines, all enjoyed in a bold space that blends rustic osteria charm with original Victorian details.

Kentish Town's Belly Bistro is making waves with its smoky, modern take on Filipino-meets-European cooking. Expect coal-grilled meats, bold sauces, and flavoursome small plates like smoked trout kinilaw, tempura cod pandesal with ikura tartar, and wagyu picanha in a rich bistek sauce. It's intimate, unpretentious, and fuelled by low-intervention wines. Oh, and don't even think about skipping the ube tiramisu.

Von Crumb is a welcoming new restaurant in North London specialising in all things schnitzel – and they certainly know their stuff. You can choose between different schnitzels – chicken, veal, beef, or a vegan aubergine version – served on a plate or as a challah bun sandwich. Thanks to the golden-crumbed deliciousness on offer and warm, amiable setting, this place has quickly become a local favourite.

Renowned for its vegetarian Middle Eastern feasts, Bubala presents a thoughtfully crafted tasting menu that blends timeless favourites with inventive new creations. With its inviting ambience, ample outdoor seating, and lively open kitchen, Bubala King's Cross provides a welcoming space for diners to savour bold, meat-free flavours.

Rossella brings a true taste of Italy to North London, combining a relaxed, family-led setting with heartfelt hospitality that makes every visitor feel personally welcomed. The light, modern space, decorated with family snapshots and shelves of Italian specialities, provides the backdrop for a generous line-up of traditional dishes, from antipasti and charcuterie to veal Milanese, fennel sausages with polenta, and an extensive selection of pizzas and pastas.

Bar Etna is a collaboration between Four Legs' Ed McIlroy and celebrated Philadelphia pizzaiolo Joe Beddia, pairing Beddia's cult pizzas with McIlroy's seasonal flair. The menu extends to Italo-American comforts like meatballs and parmigiana, alongside house spritzes, negronis on tap, and low-intervention wines. A sleek, Milan-inspired interior gives the pizzeria a design-led feel.