Be First in Line For September's Hottest New Openings
There’s something pretty alluring about being the first through the doors of a brand-new restaurant or bar. The paint is still fresh, the menu feels full of promise, and the team is buzzing with that unmistakable opening-week energy. For food lovers, these are the moments to taste a chef’s bold new vision or sip a bartender’s most daring creation before the rest of the city catches on.
This month’s crop of openings is a particularly exciting one, bringing a mix of heavyweight names and rising talent, from notable chefs branching out solo to ambitious mixologists redefining what a neighbourhood cocktail bar can be. Expect menus that lean into seasonality and sustainability, playful twists on global flavours, and interiors just as Instagrammable as the food.
Whether you’re after a destination dinner with theatrical flair, a relaxed all-day spot to park up with friends, or the latest low-lit den for inventive cocktails, we’ve scouted the launches worth adding to your list. Each one offers a little something different: a unique story, a signature dish, or an experience that promises to set it apart in a crowded dining scene. We can’t wait to see you there.
Kuroyoko – London
Opening Date: 5th September
Who’s Behind It: Chef Scott Hallsworth (formerly of Nobu London, Kurobuta, Double Dragon and Freak Scene)
The Concept: A 30-seat kushiyaki-style restaurant inspired by the neon-lit backstreets of Japan
The Vibe: Kuroyoko takes its name from the Japanese for “black alley” or “dark side,” capturing the moody, atmospheric spirit of Tokyo’s after-hours dining scene.
What to Try: Chicken Tsukune with Sweet Soy Glaze and Toasted Marshmallow with a Strawberry-Yuzu Dip
Why We’re Excited: More than 500 people have signed up to the waitlist already; with smoky skewers, bold plates, sake and cocktails on offer. Count us in.
Charlie McKay | HUŌ
HUŌ – London
Opening Date: 8th September
Who’s Behind It: Head Chef Yam Gurung
The Concept: A vibrant selection of dishes from China and Southeast Asia, crafted from scratch using traditional recipes and the freshest ingredients
The Vibe: A restaurant with comfort, taste and community at its core, with chic interiors and an accessible menu
What to Try: Handmade Dim Sum, Crispy Shredded Chilli Beef and Toffee Banana Fritter
Why We’re Excited: Not only will HUŎ focus on clean, fresh and healthy Asian food, but they will also champion a curation of Asian artists whose pieces will be peppered across walls and take the diner on a visual journey without having to leave their table
Robin Gill
Bar Brasso, London
Opening Date: 27th September
Who’s Behind It: Chef and restaurateur Robin Gill (Darby’s, Sorella, Bermondsey Larder)
The Concept: Coffee bar, deli, and bakery by day, transforming into a low-lit aperitivo bar by night. Inspired by San Sebastián and Venetian bar culture.
The Vibe: Warm and buzzy, taking cues from traditional Bacari and pintxos bars, warm wood panelling, tiled floors, and a long white marble counter.
What to Try: Beef Shin Lasagne, Sage & Anchovy Fritters, and The Bourdain Toastie (Mortadella ‘Opera’ & fontina)
Why We’re Excited: A dual-concept venue that evolves throughout the day, showcasing artisanal Italian produce via Cibo partnerships, a Campari-forward aperitivo program, and a unique txakoli tap pouring Basque sparkling wine. You can find us here from dusk till dawn.
Il Bambini Club
Il Bambini Club – London
Opening Date: End of September
Who’s Behind It: The team behind the celebrated Paris and Megève Il Bambini Club are bringing their culinary vision to London’s Hoxton Hotel.
The Concept: Refined neo-osteria that celebrates the warmth and conviviality of Italian culture
The Vibe: A lively new spot for all-day Italian dining with a dose of dolce vita charm
What to Try: Dishes for the new London location are currently top-secret, but Tagliatelle al Tartufo, Milanese cutlet, and Wood-Fired Pizzas are famous at their French locations so we can expect something just as exciting for Hoxton.
Why We’re Excited: With carefully curated design elements to bring a slice of Italy to Shoreditch, mid-week live music and delicious food, the atmosphere is designed to be fun, unparalleled and unmistakably Italian