October’s Hot New Restaurant Openings - London

Tamila

North London's beloved Tamil Prince has brought its South-Indian flavours to Battersea with the launch of Tamila. Set in the former VE Kitchen, this casual spot offers a cozy atmosphere with 50 seats and some alfresco dining options for sunnier days. If you’ve seen them at Hackney Bridge Kitchens, you’ll recognise their standout South-Indian curries and flaky rotis that are the heart of their menu.

Expect an expanded selection of breads, including garlic coriander naan and masala poori, plus dosas and mutton uttapam straight from the tandoor. For drinks, try one of their Indian-inspired cocktails like the Tamil Negroni, or enjoy the house Tamila lager. This spot is sure to be a hit for Battersea locals craving a taste of the Tamil Prince’s signature flavours.

Yari Club

What's next in London's dining scene? How about a yakitori robot? At Yari Club, soon to open on St Martin’s Lane, the grilling of your yakitori will be handled by a machine. While the staff handles loading the skewers, the robot takes over, grilling and dipping each one to perfection.

With chicken dishes like tsukune (meatball) and Negima (thigh and spring onion) on the menu, alongside prawn tempura, this fusion of tech and food is sure to capture attention. Don't worry—some human creations like chicken karaage will still be on the menu. Expect plenty of social media buzz once the doors open.

Three Darlings

Jason Atherton continues his expansion with the announcement of his new Chelsea bistro, Three Darlings. This all-day neighborhood spot on Pavilion Road promises a menu of English cuisine with European influences and a focus on healthy fare from around the world.

Named after his daughters, the restaurant is expected to be a warm, family-driven space. Rumours suggest he might be taking over the Granger & Co. space, but either way, Chelsea’s dining scene is in for another treat from the famed chef.

Motcombs

It’s taken 42 years, but Belgravia’s Motcomb’s is finally opening a second location, this time in St John’s Wood. Taking over the former Chucs site, the new spot will mirror the original with a menu spanning British, European, and Asian favorites. Expect dishes like truffle tagliatelle, miso salmon, and chicken tikka masala, with a New York-style pizza section adding some extra flair.

The space will be cozy, with plenty of artwork reminiscent of their Belgravia roots and a terrace seating 16 for those balmy London days.

Fonda

Chef Santiago Lastra, the force behind Michelin-starred Kol, is opening his second restaurant, Fonda, on Heddon Street. Drawing inspiration from traditional Mexican family restaurants, Fonda will serve up dishes based on family recipes and Lastra’s travels throughout Mexico.

The menu will include everything from sikil pak (a pumpkin seed ‘guacamole’) to Baja tacos with chipotle and sourdough. Heirloom corn tortillas, made in-house, will be a signature, while the cocktail list includes a dedicated Paloma section, with variations like a Champagne Paloma. Expect a vibrant space designed by Fernando Laposse and filled with art from emerging artists. This new venture promises to be just as popular as Kol, but with a more approachable price point.

Mr Porter Steakhouse

Park Lane’s Hilton is getting a major upgrade with the arrival of Mr Porter, a modern steakhouse with roots in Amsterdam. Taking over the lower ground floor (once home to Trader Vic's), this will be the third Mr Porter location, joining its Amsterdam and Barcelona counterparts.

With a chic lounge vibe and a "wine library" at the bar, the menu will boast an impressive selection of steaks, lamb racks, and even zucchini carpaccio. Whether you’re staying at the hotel or just stopping by for a cocktail, Mr Porter is set to become a standout destination for lovers of chic dining.