Top new restaurants in North London to try this year

Secret London has compiled a list of the best and most promising new places to eat across the capital.

Here are the highlights in north London:

Babbo, St John’s Wood

A new all-day restaurant in St John’s Wood brings “La Dolce Vita meets Little Italy,” with three dining areas and a heated terrace. Babbo returns after its Mayfair closure to delight Londoners.

The Dreamery, Islington

An ice cream shop meets wine bar from the team behind Goodbye Horses. Chef Jack Coggins creates the ice cream, paired with wines selected by Sophie Mathieson.

Rake at The Compton Arms, Islington

A historic pub that has been updated to focus on craft beer and higher-end pub food. Rake serves honest British fare, highlighting whole beast butchery and sustainable Cornish fish. It’s led by Jay Claus, Syrus Pickhaver, and Peter Ward, seasoned chefs with experience at Quo Vadis, BRAT, and Acme Fire Cult.

(Image: Compton Arms)

Leigh’s, Islington

A new spot with a menu led by a chef, featuring seasonal produce, designed for a cosy but upmarket dining experience.

Voyage with Adam Simmonds, King’s Cross

A new Scandinavian-inspired restaurant at Kings Cross’s Megaro Hotel, led by Michelin-starred Adam Simmonds. Highlights include oysters with fermented apple and venison with ember-roasted beetroot and thyme crumb.

Don’t Tell Dad, Queen’s Park

A buzz-worthy bakery and restaurant in Queen’s Park, led by Coco di Mama founder Daniel Land, chef Luke Frankie (Noble Rot, Forza Wine), and baker Keren Stenberg (Layla).

(Image: Don’t Tell Dad) In Hackney, three new places have opened:

Jupiter Burger

A new burger spot from the Dom’s Subs team—try it before the hype peaks! They’ve also recently opened Rasputins bar in Hackney.

The Black Cow at The Stage

A Middle Eastern steakhouse in the revamped 1570s Shakespearean Curtain Playhouse, run by Shiri Kraus and Amir Batito, who also operate a Camden location and Epicurus, a Middle Eastern-American diner.(Image: The Black Cow)

Each of these places offers something unique for local food lovers to try.

The full list of new restaurants and bars can be found on the Secret London website.

This guide gives food lovers a chance to explore some of the latest culinary offerings in London as 2025 begins.

With so many new places opening, eating out in London remains an ever-growing adventure.