Bouchon Racine has been named the best restaurant in the UK at the 2026 National Restaurant Awards, showcasing the finest in British gastronomy.
The 2026 National Restaurant Awards have unveiled the crème de la crème of the UK’s dining scene, with Bouchon Racine taking the top honor as the best restaurant in the country. This year’s awards highlighted not only the capital’s culinary prowess but also the remarkable talent spread across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
In a ceremony held on June 8 at Magazine in London, the awards celebrated the best in British gastronomy, from innovative new entrants to established industry legends. The event, which included regional awards and special recognitions, underscored the dynamic evolution of the UK’s restaurant landscape.
Bouchon Racine’s Triumph: A French Culinary Gem
Led by the acclaimed chef and restaurateur Henry HarrisBouchon Racine has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts and critics alike. Nestled above The Three Compasses pub in Clerkenwell, this charming establishment has been a staple on the list since its opening in November 2026.
Harris, along with his business partner Dave Strausshas earned widespread acclaim for his comforting French cuisine, inspired by the bouchons of Lyon and classic Parisian bistros.
The restaurant’s victory marks a significant shift in the culinary landscape, as it dethroned The Ritz, which had previously held the top spot. Restaurant editor Stefan Chomka noted, “French cuisine has topped the list again in 2026, but this time round it is the cosy and homely Bouchon Racine rather than the glamour of The Ritz that has taken the top spot.” Bouchon Racine was praised for its charming atmosphere and exceptional traditional French food, proving that great gastronomy doesn’t require vast teams or enormous budgets.
Notable Achievements and Regional Winners
For the first time in the awards’ history, two restaurants shared the second-place position. Osiplocated in the Somerset countryside and helmed by chef Merlin Labron-Johnsoncontinued to receive accolades for its refined farm-to-table ethos and deeply seasonal cooking. Meanwhile, The Ritz London, under the leadership of executive chef John Williams MBEremained a defining dining destination in the capital.
The awards also recognized the growing diversity and quality of restaurants across the UK. Edinburgh’s Timberyard made a triumphant return, claiming the titles of Best Restaurant in Scotland and Cocktail List of the Year. In Wales, Ynyshir was named the best restaurant, while Northern Ireland’s The Muddlers Club secured the regional title.
Scottish Culinary Excellence
The Scottish restaurants featured in the top 100 list demonstrated the region’s culinary prowess. Timberyard, known for its sustainable and seasonal tasting menus, was joined by other notable establishments such as Lyla, The Kinneuchar Inn, The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant, The Kitchin, Dogstar in Leith, The Palmerston, and Inver. These restaurants highlighted the rich tapestry of flavors and innovative approaches that define Scottish cuisine.
Celebrating Industry Legends and New Talent
The National Restaurant Awards also honored industry legends and emerging talent. Adam Byatt was named Restaurateur of the Year for his outstanding contribution to the UK restaurant industry and his influence on London’s dining scene. Byatt’s seasonal and sustainable approach to cooking continues to shape modern British hospitality through his acclaimed restaurants, including the upcoming Rosina, his first Italian venture.
Simon Rogan received the Outstanding Industry Contribution Award for his pioneering approach to farm-led, hyper-seasonal cooking. From his internationally acclaimed restaurant L’Enclume in Cartmel to his wider portfolio, Rogan’s influence resonates across a generation of chefs and restaurants.
Chef Nieves Barragán Mohacho made a significant impact with her restaurant Legadowhich was named the Highest New Entry and earned her the Chef of the Year award. Her much-anticipated second restaurant has solidified her reputation as one of the UK’s most influential culinary voices.
The awards also introduced 29 new restaurants to the top 100 list, reflecting the continued dynamism and evolution of the UK dining scene. Among the new entrants were Dara Klein’s Tiella, Vraic, Teal by Sally Abé, Tollington’s, Winsome, and Bavette. The Devonshire retained its title as Gastropub of the Year, further emphasizing the diversity of the UK’s culinary offerings.
