I’m always hungry and, as of recently, I’m always in London. This pairing leads to an interesting new source of doom scrolling: searching for my next favourite restaurant on social media – because in a city as big and diverse as London, going to the same restaurant twice feels criminal. As would be not sharing my findings on the capital’s best restaurants to try this October 2024.
Here we go.
1. Fonda – Mayfair, 37 Duke Street, W1U 1LJ
I love mexican cuisine and good branding, and so it comes as no surprise that top of my list crowns Michelin-starred chef Santiago Lastra, known for his globally acclaimed Kol, as he takes his culinary prowess to new heights with Fonda. Located in Mayfair, one of London’s most prestigious areas (think fancy Teslas and Soho-house memberships), this Mexican-inspired restaurant offers a fresh take on traditional recipes while incorporating the best of British ingredients. What makes Fonda truly special is Lastra’s deep respect for Mexican cuisine combined with his commitment to sustainability, ensuring that each dish is as ethical as it is flavourful.
The decor at Fonda mirrors its menu, warm with earth tones and textures reminiscent of Lastra’s Mexican roots. Expect a refined ambiance, perfect for both intimate dinners and special occasions. The vibe is relaxed but upscale, making it a hit for chic foodies on the hunt for an ‘elevated’ experience.
When it comes to the menu, Fonda plays with Mexican classics. Early reviews have highlighted dishes like the scallop ceviche with British sea herbs, and mole made with ingredients sourced from UK farms. This marriage of traditional Mexican techniques with local produce is what sets Fonda apart from other Mexican-inspired restaurants in the city and whether you’re after bold flavors or a fresh twist on familiar favorites, Fonda delivers.
2. Tamila – Clapham, 74 North Street, SW4 0HG
Clapham welcomes Tamila, an exciting new addition from the team behind the acclaimed Tamil Prince. Tamila draws on South Indian culinary traditions, bringing authentic Tamil flavors to the heart of sout-west London.
Step inside Tamila, and you’ll find a laid-back vibe with a colourful interior reminiscent of South India. Think traditional textiles, handcrafted wooden furniture, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for group gatherings or casual date nights. Never has a curry been so trendy.
On the menu, expect South Indian staples with a modern twist. Tamila’s dosa, for example, comes with a variety of fillings and creative dips, while their curries are rich, flavorful, and truly comforting.
3. Fantômas – Chelsea, 182 King’s Road, SW3 5XP
We head to Chelsea for Fantômas, which promises a daring blend of modern European and Asian-inspired dishes, led by Chris Denney, former chef of the innovative 108 Garage. Chelsea, known for its luxurious eateries, gains a new culinary hot spot where creativity and experimentation take centre stage.
Fantômas’ decor is as avant-garde as its menu. The interiors lean into sleek minimalism, all clean lines and shadowplay, with the occasional punch of contemporary art. Even the lighting was probably curated to feel moody, flattering, and a little conspiratorial.
The menu reflects Denney’s globe-trotting approach to cooking, with dishes such as miso-glazed cod paired with artichoke, and wagyu beef served alongside unconventional flavor combinations. It’s great for the adventurous eater. Reviewers have already begun to rave about the complexity of flavors and the unique experience Fantômas offers.
4. Amélie – Belgravia, 34 Elizabeth Street, SW1W 9NZ
For lovers of French cuisine, Amélie in Belgravia is poised to become the go-to spot for those dreaming of the tastes of Provence, opening this October 2024. Located in one of London’s most refined districts, Amélie brings rustic French flavors to an elegant setting, complete with an exclusive caviar menu that adds an extra layer of luxury to the dining experience.
If their Instagram is anything to go by, Amélie’s interiors deliver timeless French chic with a classic Belgravia twist. This translates to sun-warmed textures, provincial restraint, and just enough polish to remind you that you are in one of London’s most refined boroughs. The space blends natural materials with classic design cues, making it somewhat rustic without being cliché, elegant without trying too hard. It’s ideal for anniversary dinners, first dates, or just a quiet escape from the chaos outside Sloane Square.
In terms of food (the real star of the show here) Amélie excels in delivering Provençal classics with a modern twist. Dishes like bouillabaisse with Cornish seafood, or slow-roasted lamb with a side of ratatouille, are elevated with locally sourced ingredients. The caviar menu, while indulgent, has already drawn praise from early diners, who highlight the delicate balance of flavours and the thoughtful pairing options.
5. The Grill at The Hero – Maida Vale, 55 Formosa Street, W9 1EE
Brits love a pub and there’s a new one on the scene. Maida Vale’s new gastropub, The Grill at The Hero, brings fire-cooked fare to a neighborhood that’s long been known for its charming pubs and eateries. Located on Formosa Street, The Grill at The Hero focuses on meat-centric dishes, all prepared over an open flame, which sets it apart from the many gastropubs dotted around the city.
The ambiance here is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, dark wood accents, and leather banquettes that feel so quintessentially pub-like. Expect dishes like charred ribeye, fire-roasted vegetables, and even flame-grilled seafood for a more diverse offering.
6. Delamina Townhouse – Covent Garden, 11 Neal Street, WC2H 9PU
Covent Garden’s culinary renaissance continues with the opening of Delamina Townhouse this October 2024, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant housed in a stylish Georgian townhouse. Bright flavours, seasonal plates, and a Georgian backdrop, Delamina Townhouse is Covent Garden’s latest reason to linger a little longer.
The decor is a mix of elegant and homey, with rustic wooden tables, soft lighting, and potted plants that create a cozy, intimate dining space. Helmed by husband-and-wife duo Limor and Amir, the restaurant is filled with period features and curated artworks. It continues the couple’s culinary journey, which began with a residency at Shoreditch House and followed with the launch of Delamina EAST in Shoreditch and Delamina in Marylebone.
On the menu, dishes are bursting with Mediterranean flavours such as grilled lamb with za’atar, roasted aubergine with tahini, and fresh seafood dishes all prepared with a delicate balance of spices and herbs.
So there you have it. Six new spots to obsess over, screenshot, and try to book before they inevitably go viral. Whether you’re into fire-grilled pub food, South Indian staples, or Michelin-backed Mexican, October’s openings prove that London’s restaurant scene isn’t slowing down any time soon.