Somerset House Serves Up a New Culinary Line-Up

Somerset House isn’t just a cultural landmark anymore—it’s fast becoming one of London’s most dynamic dining destinations. This autumn, the neoclassical arts centre is expanding its already impressive food offering with a series of new openings that blend heritage, creativity, and modern dining culture.

Leading the charge is Poon’s, marking the long-awaited debut of Amy Poon’s first permanent restaurant. The daughter of Bill Poon—whose Soho restaurant defined Chinese dining for a generation—Amy has built a devoted following through her pop-ups and pantry range celebrating Chinese heritage food. Now, Poon’s will find a home within Somerset House, bringing a refined yet authentic take on classic Cantonese dishes, steeped in family legacy but refreshed for today’s audience.

Alongside it, Aram arrives with a story that’s as inspiring as its menu. The Syrian café, deli and restaurant is the latest project from Imad Alarnab, whose eponymous restaurant in Soho has earned praise for its warmth, generosity, and deeply personal approach to Middle Eastern cuisine. Expect an atmosphere that’s equal parts comfort and craftsmanship, where hospitality and home-style flavours take centre stage.

Then there’s Setlist, the riverside spot redefining what it means to eat out at Somerset House. Positioned as a food, music, and arts destination, it’s designed to champion female chef talent—a refreshing and much-needed focus in London’s restaurant scene. With its outdoor energy, cultural programming, and community feel, Setlist adds a modern, progressive edge to the site’s culinary mix.

Of course, these newcomers join a line-up that already reads like a who’s who of London’s food scene. Spring, Skye Gyngell’s award-winning restaurant, continues to set the standard for elegant, ingredient-led cooking. The Future Plate, the UK’s largest African Caribbean culinary collective, brings a bold, contemporary voice to Black British cuisine. Meanwhile, Café Petiole and WatchHouse keep things lively from breakfast through to late afternoon, serving up coffee, pastries, and people-watching opportunities in equal measure.

Collectively, these new arrivals signal a shift in how Somerset House sees itself—not just as an arts institution, but as a cultural and culinary destination in its own right. Art and food have always been intertwined, but here, the connection feels more intentional than ever. Whether it’s through the craftsmanship of a handmade dumpling, the storytelling of a Syrian feast, or the soundscape of a riverside supper, the new Somerset House line-up serves as a reminder that creativity comes in many forms—and not all of them hang on the walls.

Somerset House’s new restaurants open throughout autumn 2025.