As we’ve reached the midway point of the year we thought it good, for posterity’s sake, to celebrate some great restaurant openings our fare capital has already seen this year.
Rick Stein, Barnes
It comes as a surprise that Rick Stein, the ubiquitous, international chef and T.V personality, had not yet ventured into London. He has chosen a beautiful location to change all that – his first London opening, in Barnes, overlooks the Thames river with a view which perfectly captures the vibe of the fish-friendly menu. Our love for Mr. Stein is unwavering and we are just as excited about the chance to see him strolling round picturesque Richmond as we are to taste his beautiful, fresh seafood offerings.
Address: Tideway Yard, 125 Mortlake High St, London SW14 8SN, UK
Website: www.rickstein.com
Farang, Highbury
Seb Holmes, formally of IDEAL magazine favourite Smoking Goat, has taken up a 6 month residency in a Highbury pub. Farang offers superb take-no-prisoners Thai food which focuses on regional cuisine and great beer to match. A winning formula currently in London which shows no signs of slowing, and a city which is all the better for it.
Address: 72 Highbury Park, Highbury East, London N5 2XE, UK
Website: www.faranglondon.co.uk
Bibendum, Chelsea
Probably the most talked about opening of the year so far anywhere, Claude Bosi has taken the helm at the good ship Bibendum and steered it in a new and exciting direction. Doffing its beret to French classical cooking but with typical Bosi wit and charm, Bibendum has been wowing punters and restaurant critics alike since re-opening. The breathtaking stained glass windows when the sun is shining give a feeling of real occasion to match the stunning food. Expect stars to follow.
Address: Michelin House, 81 Fulham Rd, Chelsea, London SW3 6RD, UK
Website: bibendum.co.uk
Radici, Islington
Franceso Mazzei has already made quite the name for himself in London with a series of brilliant, if not challenging price-wise, restaurants. His latest in Radici seems to have finally hit a sweet spot – his excellent, hearty southern Italian cooking still shines, but prices are keen, even for London. We’re so happy to have found a Mazzei restaurant which can be enjoyed on a quiet Tuesday night rather than only for a special occasion.
Address: 30 Almeida St, London N1 1AD, UK
Website: www.radici.uk
Hai Cenato, Victoria
Jason Atherton has done so much for the capital’s dining scene and beyond. That his appetite for new and exciting openings hasn’t been sated is to the benefit of every hungry London resident. Hai Cenato channels the New York diners run by Italian migrant families, with a welcoming vibe and excellent home cooking classics, done with the precision one expects from a chef and restaurateur of his calibre. There’s also a deli with premium ingredients if you fancy cooking the food of Italy at home.
Address: 2 Sir Simon Milton Square, London SW1E5DJ, UK
Website: haicenato.co.uk
