The unveiling of the Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland 2025 at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum marks a significant milestone for London’s vibrant culinary scene. This year, ten restaurants from the capital received their inaugural Michelin star, a testament to the city’s ever-evolving gastronomic landscape. Among these standout establishments is Dosa, a unique restaurant nestled in the basement of the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair. Under the guidance of executive chef Jihun Kim, Dosa is quickly garnering attention for its refined Korean dining experience, highlighted by an impressive marble counter that enhances both aesthetics and ambiance.
Other notable first-time Michelin star recipients include eclectic venues like Oma, AngloThai, Lita, Caractère, 64 Goodge Street, Cornus, Row on 5, Plates, and Mauro Colagreco at Raffles. Particularly groundbreaking is Plates, situated in Shoreditch, recognized as the first fully vegan restaurant in the UK to earn a Michelin star. This recognition represents a pivotal moment in fine dining, symbolizing the increasing acceptance and celebration of plant-based cuisine in high-end culinary circles.
Among the celebratory news, two restaurants have successfully elevated themselves to the prestigious two-star rating: The Ritz Restaurant in Mayfair and Humble Chicken in Soho. Humble Chicken, in particular, has captivated the dining community with its innovative approach to traditional yakitori. Under the stewardship of chef Angelo Sato, this venue has transformed its concept into an awe-inspiring experience that is as much about technique as it is about flavor—everything from meticulously prepared buns to avant-garde plates showcases a dedication to culinary artistry that reflects the dynamic nature of London’s food scene.
While the Michelin awards shine brightly on newcomers, they also highlight the precarious nature of culinary acclaim. This year, two established London restaurants, Jason Atherton’s City Social and the renowned Kai, have lost their Michelin stars. Their fall from grace underscores the relentless pressures of maintaining excellence within an increasingly competitive market. Additionally, the closures of Cornerstone, Locanda Locatelli, and Pollen Street Social suggest a landscape that is not only vibrant but also fragile, as operators of all types navigate the challenges of sustainability and relevance.
Interestingly, although no London restaurant achieved the esteemed three-star designation, the 2025 Michelin Guide exemplifies a bustling and evolving food scene, brimming with creativity and exploration. As new culinary concepts emerge and established restaurants pivot to meet changing consumer preferences, the essence of London’s dining experience is marked by a spirit of innovation. This year’s awards highlight not only the success of individual restaurants but also reflect a larger, transformative trend in British gastronomy—one that values ethical sourcing, creative interpretations of traditional dishes, and a burgeoning appreciation for diverse culinary inspirations. As the Michelin Guide continues to evolve, it captures the essence of a city that persists in pushing the boundaries of culinary excellence.
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