At the halfway point of 2026, a host of legendary London eateries have shuttered, including Club Mexicana off Carnaby and Holloway's Sambal Shiok. Many have cited rising operating costs such as business rates and VAT, leading to the #VATsTheProblem campaign, supported by leading chefs, calling for hospitality VAT to be cut to 10 percent.
Ombra, Bethnal Green
Closing in June, this canal-side Italian served fresh pasta for 15 years. Owners cited 'a rising tide of labour costs, utilities, rent hikes, business rate increases and the most stubborn VAT policy in Europe.' Their bakery Forno remains open.
Sambal Shiok, Holloway
Closed in May. Founder Mandy Yin said the business was 'financially doomed' and she could not 'continue personally carrying the financial risk or injecting funds to keep the business afloat.'
Bad Manners, Shoreditch
Closed in June. This Mexican-inspired burrito spot plans to return for events and pop-ups.
Morito, Hackney
Closed in June. The tapas joint said: 'It's no secret that the hospitality industry has been facing sustained and significant challenges.'
Water House Project, Cambridge Heath
Closing June 27 after five years of sustainable fine dining.
Made of Dough, Peckham
Closed in March. Sourdough pizza still available via delivery from Crystal Palace.
Tandoor Chop House, Covent Garden
Closed in January without warning.
Da Maria, Notting Hill
Closed in January after 46 years when owners retired.
Papi, London Fields
Closed in March. The site was taken over by Auguste, and chef Matthew Scott opened The Golden Tooth gastropub.
Bebe Bob, Soho
Closed in March without warning. This chicken, caviar and cocktail spot was previously named one of London's most romantic restaurants.
Flat Earth, Bethnal Green
Closed in April. One of London's best vegetarian restaurants, opened in 2022.
Sael, St James's
Closed in June. Jason Atherton's Britpop bistro closed quietly with no reason given.
Mriya, Chelsea
Closed in June after three years. This Ukrainian bistro was run and staffed by refugees.
Silver Birch, Chiswick
Closed in March despite being named London Restaurant of the Year at the AA Hospitality Awards in 2024.
Dom's Subs, City of London
Closed in March. Sandwiches now available at Rasputin's bar on Mare Street.
Paradise, Soho
Closed in March. This Sri Lankan restaurant closed mysteriously.
Club Mexicana, Soho
Closed in February after six years. Vegan Mexican tofish tacos now at Boxhall City and Mercato Mayfair.
Big Night, Hackney
Closed in May. Party restaurant opened in 2024.
Nest, Shoreditch
Closed in March to rebrand as British bistro Tavern.
