19 great London restaurants that have closed so far in 2026

London's restaurant scene is experiencing a significant downturn in the first half of 2026, with 19 'great' establishments already closing their doors. This period has been described as a 'bloodbath' for the industry, impacting both beloved local spots and more widely recognized eateries. Among the casualties are Bad Manners, an east London takeout known for its 'graveyard burritos,' and Sambal Shiok, a popular laksa bar located in Holloway. The primary drivers behind these closures are cited as escalating operating costs, particularly business rates and VAT. In response to these pressures, the hospitality sector has launched the '#VATsTheProblem' campaign, which is garnering support from leading chefs and advocates for a reduction in hospitality VAT to 10 percent to alleviate the financial strain on businesses.