London’s dining scene never stays still for long, and this season brings an exciting wave of openings that span grand dining rooms, historic crypts and new chapters for some of the city’s most celebrated chefs.
One of the most celebrated recent openings is Hawksmoor St Pancras, the latest addition to the steakhouse group and perhaps its most spectacular location yet. Taking over the dramatic dining room that was formerly home to The Midland Grand, this eighth London Hawksmoor honours the building’s Victorian Gothic architecture. Alongside classic steaks, the menu introduces a deeply comforting prime rib roast served all week and an indulgent seafood platter. The new Martini Bar promises to be a destination, offering house martinis and inventive snacks such as beef-dripping hash browns.
Over in Whitehall, acclaimed chef Francesco Mazzei has opened Mezzogiorno at Corinthia London, marking a welcome return to the spotlight for the master of elevated Southern Italian cooking.
For something completely different, the newest Humble Grape has opened its doors in the City, inside the 11th-century crypt of St Mary-le-Bow. This atmospheric wine bar offers an inviting mix of unusual bottles and European small plates, making it a perfect hideaway from the bustle of Cheapside. Pair its signature lamb burger, smothered in harissa aioli, with a glass of Burgundy from the monthly wine flight.
Meanwhile, a London legend has been reborn at Poon’s at Somerset House. Revived by Amy Poon, daughter of celebrated restaurateur Bill Poon, the menu focuses on Chinese home cooking. Try the Covent Garden roast duck salad, tossed in a soy sesame dressing with fresh Chinese cabbage and pickled vegetables. Mouthwatering.
In Mayfair, Bonheur by Matt Abé has taken over the iconic Le Gavroche site, with the former Gordon Ramsay Restaurants chef aiming to honour classical French technique. Food does not get more comforting than a reimagined quiche Lorraine: a rich, cheesy tart of leek and pork belly finished with a velvety vin jaune sauce.
Coming soon, two major openings are already creating buzz. The iconic Simpson’s in the Strand is set to return, bringing back its polished carving trolleys and grand British dining. Meanwhile, Gordon Ramsay’s fiery Hell’s Kitchen will arrive in London, promising bold flavours, theatrical flair and a stateside edge in the heart of the city.
