Get ready to tantalize your taste buds, London! The city’s culinary landscape is bursting with exciting new openings, promising a delightful adventure for food enthusiasts. From innovative Mexican creations to a chic hot dog haven, the upcoming months will see a diverse range of restaurants gracing London’s streets.
This fall, London’s restaurant scene will be a feast for the senses. Prepare to be wowed by a whirlwind of flavors from around the globe, all conveniently nestled in this vibrant city.
A Taste of France and British Ingenuity
The air is abuzz with excitement as Cornus, a sophisticated new eatery, takes its place in Fitzrovia. Led by chef Gary Foulkes, Cornus offers an impressive à la carte menu that blends French finesse with the finest British ingredients. Imagine savoring hand-rolled spaghetti with native lobster, Amalfi lemon, and N25 Oscietra caviar, or indulging in a precisely crafted dish showcasing the freshest crab, lamb, or cod.
Nestled in Eccleston Yards, Cornus boasts a light-filled, airy ambiance that sets the perfect stage for a memorable dining experience. With a discerning wine selection curated by sommelier Melania Battiston and a focus on non-alcoholic options and tea infusions, Cornus caters to every palate.
Mexican Delights: From Kol to Fonda
Santiago Lastra, the mastermind behind the Michelin-starred Kol, is expanding his culinary empire with the launch of Fonda, a contemporary Mexican eatery. This two-level restaurant, set to open in October, will offer an à la carte menu showcasing the diverse regional cuisines of Mexico. Lastra’s focus on masa, a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine, promises to elevate the dining experience.
Fonda will be a welcoming addition to London, which is not exactly known for its Mexican food scene, but this is set to change. Lastra aims to make his culinary creations accessible to a wider audience, sharing his unique perspective on Mexican cooking. “The idea is to bring a little bit more of the regional Mexican and my interpretation of Mexican cooking,” Lastra told the Observer. “I think it’s important to be able to reach more people.”
Sri Lankan Flavors: Kolamba East
Eroshan and Aushi Meewella, the duo behind the acclaimed Kolamba, are bringing their modern take on Sri Lankan cuisine to Shoreditch. Kolamba East, which opened in early August, features a new menu showcasing large feasting plates and a selection of vegetable-forward options.
The restaurant’s central bar offers a unique opportunity to explore Sri Lankan spirits and ingredients. Kolamba East embraces a casual upscale vibe, making it ideal for an after-work gathering or a Sunday evening out. Its proximity to Liverpool Street Station makes it easily accessible for many diners.
A Culinary Journey Through the British Isles: Sael
Chef Jason Atherton, known for his culinary prowess, is venturing into new territory with Sael, a British eatery opening in September. This restaurant will be located in the former site of Aquavit and will showcase hyper-seasonal ingredients sourced exclusively from the British Isles.
Prepare to be tantalized by the likes of Orkney scallops, Cumbrian lamb, Carlingford oysters, and Highland wagyu, all expertly cooked on the restaurant’s wood-fire grill. For those seeking a late-night indulgence, Apples & Pears, a bar upstairs, offers a rotating cocktail list and a DJ booth, providing the perfect ambiance for a relaxed evening.
Punjab’s Rich Culture: Ambassadors Clubhouse
Embark on a culinary journey to India’s Punjab region at Ambassadors Clubhouse, set to open in September. This expansive two-floor restaurant will feature a menu brimming with regional classics prepared using traditional techniques.
Expect curries cooked in cast-iron karahis and clay matkas, tandoor-roasted breads, and a cocktail list inspired by Punjabi flavors. With a heated outdoor terrace, three private dining rooms, and a music series featuring resident and guest DJs, Ambassadors Clubhouse promises an immersive dining experience.
Parisian Flair in Canary Wharf: Marceline
Canary Wharf, a hub of business and finance, is now adding a touch of Parisian elegance with Marceline, a modern French brasserie. The menu, curated by Robert Aikens, formerly of New York’s renowned Pastis, features classic French dishes like steak tartare, French onion soup, and tuna niçoise.
The adjacent bar, Salon Marceline, is a welcoming spot for a glass of wine or an after-work meeting. Marceline offers a vast wine list and innovative cocktails served tableside, guaranteeing a truly Parisian experience.
A Barbary Coast Escape: The Barbary Notting Hill
The Barbary, a London favorite for its innovative Barbary Coast-inspired dishes, is expanding its reach with a new location in Notting Hill. This third outpost, set to open this fall, will be notably larger than its predecessor.
Guests can enjoy the same oven-fresh breads that The Barbary is known for, along with new dishes exclusive to the Notting Hill location. A separate cocktail bar adds an extra layer of sophistication to the experience.
AngloThai: A Fusion of Flavors
AngloThai, a popular London pop-up, is making a permanent home in Marylebone. This restaurant will offer a fusion of Thai and British cuisines, with a set menu and an à la carte selection.
John and Desiree Chantarasak, the owners, will be opening AngloThai in October, with a private dining room, dubbed Baan, following later in the year. The menu remains a secret for now, but those who have sampled the pop-up menu know to expect something truly special.
Wine, Vinyl, and British Delights: Goodbye Horses
For a casual, low-key, and unpretentious wine experience, look no further than Goodbye Horses. This new spot, located between Islington and De Beauvoir, offers a vast wine list and a weekly-changing food menu featuring British favorites like sardines on toast and Dorset clams.
Goodbye Horses is a haven for music lovers, boasting a vinyl collection spanning more than 4,000 records. With its sister coffee shop, Day Trip, and the soon-to-open ice cream shop, The Dreamery, Goodbye Horses promises a complete sensory experience.
Conclusion:
London’s restaurant scene is continuously evolving, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. Whether you’re seeking innovative Mexican cuisine, sophisticated French fare, or a casual wine bar with a vinyl twist, London has something for every palate. So grab your friends, make a reservation, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure in London this fall!
