November’s Hot New Restaurant Openings - London
Mezzogiono at Corinthia London
Italian chef Francesco Mazzei is taking over The Northall at Corinthia London, reimagining it as Mezzogiorno. Drawing on his Calabrian heritage, the menu will feature dishes such as Scottish crab with Tuscan panzanella, Umbrian white truffle tortelli, Bistecca alla Fiorentina and Mazzei’s marsala tiramisu.
The dining room will be refreshed with terracotta tones, soft stone, natural textures and greenery, complementing Mazzei’s bold Italian flavours.
Whitehall Pl, London SW1A 2BD
Bonheur by Matt Abé
Matt Abé, formerly of Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants, is taking over the old Le Gavroche site with Bonheur. Offering classical techniques with a modern twist, the restaurant will feature three menus: à la carte, Journey (5-course tasting), and Dream (7-course tasting) alongside a six-seater chef’s table for a full immersive experience.
Design by Russell Sage Studio promises a warm, glowing interior with subtle nods to Abé’s Australian heritage.
43 Upper Brook Street, London W1K 7QR
Simpson’s in the Strand
Jeremy King is bringing new life to Simpson’s in the Strand with a “big-theatre brasserie” approach. The restaurant will feature two distinct dining rooms: The Grand Divan, offering a traditional British experience with tableside roast service and The Green Room, with a lower-price-point menu.
Additional highlights include two bars — Simpson’s Bars and Nellies — and a private ballroom for up to 100 diners. This revival promises to restore Simpson’s to its former iconic status.
100 Strand, London WC2R 0EW
Coreunucopia
Three-Michelin-starred chef Clare Smyth is opening Corenucopia, a luxury bistro in Chelsea. While details remain minimal, it’s billed as a high-end, contemporary dining experience with Smyth’s signature refinement and attention to detail.
18–22 Holbein Place, London SW1W 8NL
Harry’s, Covent Garden
Richard Caring’s Caprice Holdings is expanding its Harry’s brand with a flagship site in Covent Garden, taking over the historic Tuttons location. Positioned on the corner of the piazza beside the London Transport Museum, the site boasts a huge terrace perfect for summer dining.
The menu channels 1950s Italian energy, featuring truffled tagliolini, classic Harry’s dishes and the photogenic Harry’s toadstool dessert. This winter, Covent Garden is set to become the brand’s culinary focal point.
11–12 Russell Street, London WC2B 5HZ
Poon’s, Somerset House
Legendary Chinese chef Amy Poon is finally opening her own restaurant, Poon’s, in the New Wing of Somerset House. Bringing dishes rooted in traditional Chinese home cooking, Poon’s will offer both familiar and new culinary delights. Returning fan favourites include the claypot rice and “magic soup.”
The 60-seat space spans two rooms, including a communal dining area and an open kitchen, plus a private dining room for 24 guests. There will also be a bar serving Chinese “siu2 sik6” small eats.
Somerset House, New Wing, Lancaster Place, London WC2R 1LA
Hawksmoor, St Pancras
Ever since the surprise closure of Victor Garvey at The Midland Grand, there’s been speculation about who would take over the iconic dining room and now it’s confirmed: Hawksmoor is coming to St Pancras. The group’s eighth London restaurant promises to bring the usual Hawksmoor magic with the addition of something new: The Martini Bar.
The main restaurant occupies the grand former Midland Grand space, designed with architectural heritage in mind. Hawksmoor co-founder Will Beckett calls it “a dream Hawksmoor,” while Huw Gott adds, “There are very few buildings that offer such incredible character and history.” Meanwhile, The Gothic Bar is being transformed into The Martini Bar, complete with high vaulted ceilings, a terrace and a DJ stage.
Menu highlights are expected to feature Hawksmoor’s signature steaks, classic cocktails and a selection of inventive new martinis.
St Pancras, Euston Rd., London NW1 2AR
Sale e Pepe Mare, The Langham Hotel
The Thesleff Group, who run Los Mochis and Sale e Pepe in Knightsbridge, are bringing a seafood-focused spin to The Langham. Sale e Pepe Mare will be the first major update for the Knightsbridge restaurant in over 50 years, combining all-day dining with high drama: think live seafood displays, tableside trolleys and Champagne rounds.
Lunch and dinner menus promise lobster linguine, seabass crudo and shellfish towers, plus desserts such as tiramisù served tableside.
The Langham Hotel, 1c Portland Place, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA