The prestigious Toast the City Awards have returned for their second year with expanded ambitions, once again highlighting the exceptional restaurants, bars, green spaces, and cultural venues that define London's Square Mile as a premier destination for both work and leisure. This year's judging panel includes previous winners from the 2025 awards, notably Chris and Jeff Galvin, the acclaimed brothers behind Michelin-starred Galvin La Chapelle, which secured the Best Restaurant title last year.
What the Award Means to Galvin's Team
Winning the Best Restaurant in the City award at the Toast the City Awards was described as "meaning the world" to the Galvin brothers and their team. They emphasized that this recognition is incredibly rewarding, serving as a true reflection of their hard work and dedication. For the Galvins, local recognition holds the greatest honor, as staying connected with neighbors, engaging with the community, and building relationships with peers are essential to their identity. Their goal is to be a genuine neighborhood restaurant at the heart of the local community.
Celebrating with a New Menu
To commemorate their win, the Galvin brothers introduced a brand-new menu called 'Toast and Taste.' This five-course tasting menu, priced at £49 and accompanied by a glass of fizz, was designed to be more accessible and approachable for diners. The response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to its permanent inclusion on the menu due to its popularity.
Factors Behind Their Victory
The Galvins expressed genuine surprise at their win, attributing it largely to their loyal customers. They actively encouraged guests to vote through social media and newsletters, resulting in incredible support. They are deeply grateful for the time and effort their patrons invested in voting for them.
The Thriving Square Mile Dining Scene
According to the Galvin brothers, the Square Mile is currently thriving, offering a wealth of fantastic food, drink, and experiences. They highlighted the unique demands of the City crowd, noting that speed is a critical consideration. Many guests require quick, efficient service, whether for client entertainment, power lunches, or returning to the office. While Galvin La Chapelle offers a leisurely three-hour tasting menu, they also provide a guaranteed one-hour lunch option to cater to these needs, emphasizing flexibility.
What Impressed the Judges
The Galvins hope the judges recognized their core approach of combining accessible offerings with relaxed luxury, all while maintaining the exacting standards expected of a Michelin-starred restaurant. This balance, they believe, set them apart in the competitive field.
Predictions for This Year's Awards
When asked about potential winners for the 2026 awards, the Galvin brothers noted the abundance of fantastic restaurants in the City. They specifically mentioned Gordon Ramsay's recent opening on Bishopsgate, suggesting he might be a strong contender for the shortlist. The Toast the City Awards continue to celebrate the vibrant culinary landscape of London's Square Mile, inviting nominations for favorite spots in the area.
