London Dining Update: Rules Joins National Trust, Tom Booton Debuts Ralphie’s, and Lee Tiernan Returns

POLICY WIRE — London, United Kingdom — London’s historic culinary landscape is shifting as the city’s oldest restaurant, Rules, transitions into a National Trust property. Founded in 1798 by Thomas Rule, the Covent Garden landmark has been donated to the charity by owner JP Mayhew in a deal valued at approximately £11 million, ensuring the preservation of its Grade II-listed interiors and extensive historical archives.

While the National Trust assumes ownership of the building, the restaurant operations remain under the management of Ricky McMenemy, who acquired the business in 2022. The site, which has hosted figures ranging from Charles Dickens to David Bowie, will continue to function as a dining destination, with rental income supporting ongoing conservation efforts.

In other industry developments, former Dorchester head chef Tom Booton is preparing to launch his own venture, Ralphie’s, on Pimlico Road in late November. Named after his Maltipoo, the Belgravia bistro will feature a dedicated dog menu alongside modern British comfort food, including a shepherd’s pie-stuffed Yorkshire pudding and a beef Wellington trolley.

Lee Tiernan is also making a comeback following the closure of Black Axe Mangal. He will host a two-day sandwich pop-up at 156 Canonbury Road on October 23 and 24 in partnership with Kerrygold, offering 600 free sandwiches before eventually reopening with a new restaurant concept.

Covent Garden is seeing a surge in activity, with Rochelle Canteen opening a temporary residency at the NoMad hotel until January 2027. Meanwhile, the crypt beneath St George’s Church on Hanover Square is set to become Elezar, an Eastern European chophouse opening November 2, featuring a menu of pierogi and steaks priced at £28 per main course.

Luxury automotive brand Jaguar has entered the dining space with the opening of Cafe Eighty-One in Knightsbridge, featuring a menu curated by chef Michael O’Hare. Additionally, chef Abbie Hendren is bringing a new concept to Trindle Stores in Kew, operating a British-Mediterranean kitchen out of a garden tipi.

Finally, the vegetarian restaurant Bubala has expanded its footprint with a fourth location on Garrick Street. The 90-seat venue continues the brand’s focus on Middle Eastern-inspired meat-free dishes, such as their signature confit potato latkes, aiming to provide a high-quality alternative to standard pre-theatre dining options.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)