Three London restaurants have earned a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide in May 2026, joining a select group of eateries recognized for their exceptional quality. The guide, updated monthly based on anonymous inspector assessments, highlights establishments that demonstrate mastery of flavor, cooking techniques, and consistency. May's additions are notably fewer than previous months, with only eight UK restaurants added overall, three of which are in London.
Khao Bird: Northern Thai BBQ in Soho
Khao Bird opened its permanent restaurant in Soho late last year, following a year-long residency near Borough Market. The venue, once the last adult cinema in Soho, is described as a chaotic and unhinged space that embraces its vibrant atmosphere. Signature dishes include raw beef larb, mutton fries, and onglet steak with white curry. The restaurant offers relatively affordable dining for the area, with the most expensive item being the sam-rod whole sea bass at £25.90.
Cometa: Mexican Seafood in Fitzrovia
Cometa, a fish-focused Mexican restaurant, opened on Charlotte Street in February, occupying the former wine bar space at Carousel. The restaurant offers a more delicate cuisine, with dishes such as crab rice decorated with smoked eel cream, oysters with fermented petróleo, prawn and burnt mandarin ceviche, and sea bass with mole verde and chile de árbol. It is described as a chilled-out, grown-up spot.
Rucola: Northern Italian Fare in Covent Garden
Rucola is located on the rooftop of The Conduit private members club but is open to all. The menu focuses on northern Italian cuisine, featuring small pizzas topped with nduja and hot honey or wild mushrooms and taleggio, fresh pasta like shrimp linguine or spicy vodka paccheri, and grilled fish and meats such as iberico pork chop or whole Dover sole.
These three restaurants join the Michelin Guide's prestigious list, offering diverse culinary experiences across London.
