London’s dining scene is stepping into May with a wave of standout openings, seasonal menu launches and high-energy brunch concepts landing across the city. From riverside hotspots on the South Bank to refined dining rooms in Belgravia and Soho’s late-night favourites, there’s no shortage of reasons to book a table this week. Whether you’re in the mood for Japanese sharing menus, modern European plates or vibrant all-day experiences, these are the places setting the tone for where to eat in London right now.
Whether you’re searching for the best brunch in London, new restaurants to try, or standout spots for dinner and drinks, these five destinations are leading the conversation this week.
For a Hikari Brunch in London: Aki London
What: If you’re looking for one of the best new brunches in London 2026, Aki London has launched its highly anticipated Hikari Brunch in Marylebone. This weekly Saturday experience blends a Japanese sharing menu with live DJ entertainment, creating one of the most exciting brunch bookings in central London. Running every Saturday from 12pm–4pm, it’s designed for social dining with a high-energy atmosphere ideal for weekend plans.
Food: The three-course sharing menu begins with standout starters including truffle edamame, rock shrimp tempura, spinach salad with sesame dressing, and wagyu beef gyoza. Guests can elevate the experience with bluefin tuna tartare and Oscietra caviar. For mains, choose from roasted Australian wagyu, crispy skin salmon, black ginger baby chicken, or vegetable rice gohan, with premium upgrades like black cod and lamb cutlets available. Unlimited temaki hand rolls add a luxury touch, while desserts such as Japanese millefeuille and coconut chawanmushi complete the experience.
Location: 1 Cavendish Square, London W1G 0LA
For a New American-French Restaurant in London: Avi Bistro
What: Set within The Lowndes Hotel in Belgravia, Avi Bistro is one of the most exciting new restaurant openings in London this May. The concept blends modern American comfort food with French culinary technique, appealing to those looking for elevated yet familiar dining.
Food: The menu leans into indulgence, with dishes like New York fried chicken with caviar and caviar fish and chips. Signature options include lobster rolls, steak baguettes, and a truffle-infused “Le Big Mac.” Seafood dishes such as carabineros prawns and sea bass tom yum sit alongside premium grilled meats including côte de boeuf and wagyu beef. Pasta options like tequila paccheri and lobster linguine round out the offering.
Location: 21 Lowndes Street, London SW1X 9ES
For Late-Night Ramen in Soho: Maki & Ramen Soho
What: For those searching for late-night food in Soho London, Maki & Ramen Soho is a major new opening. Already popular across the UK, the brand brings affordable, high-quality Japanese dining to the West End.
Food: The menu covers all the classics, including black garlic tonkotsu ramen, spicy hell ramen, halal steak tataki ramen, sushi rolls, and katsu curry. With vegetarian, vegan, and halal-friendly options, it stands out as one of the most accessible Japanese restaurants in London right now.
Location: 9 Old Compton Street, London W1D 5JF
For a Seasonal Menu in the City: Straits Kitchen
What: Located in Pan Pacific London, Straits Kitchen has unveiled a new spring/summer 2026 menu, making it a top choice for seasonal dining in the City of London.
Food: The menu showcases Southeast Asian flavours paired with modern European techniques. Highlights include Cromer crab with kimchi, monkfish meen moilee, and rendang-spiced lamb. The five-course tasting menu (£59) is a key draw, featuring dishes like tuna tartare, crab risotto, and Hereford beef short rib, with optional wine pairing.
Location: 80 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7AB
For a Classic British Brasserie in London: Browns Brasserie & Bar
What: Browns Brasserie & Bar continues to be a go-to for classic British dining in London, with its new spring/summer menu highlighting seasonal ingredients and brasserie favourites.
Food: Seafood leads the menu with Cornish sole, miso-glazed salmon, and sea bass with Isle of Wight tomatoes. Meat options include a duo of lamb, premium steak cuts, and a lobster surf & turf. Vegetarian dishes like risotto verde add balance, while desserts range from peach Eton mess to chocolate delice.
Location: Multiple locations across London
For more recommendations, visit TONE Magazine LDN and our Eats page.
