Forget the postcard clichés. From artisan sourdough and open-fire feasts to historic inns, reimagined pubs and destination restaurants, the North Cotswolds has a food scene worth travelling for. The Knife discovers five places putting flavour firmly on the map.

Two generations, one shared love of Spanish food. From Brindisa's two decades of tapas, regional produce and convivial dining to Bar Kroketa's three-site celebration of croquetas, vermút and Basque-style bar hopping, we explore how these sister brands are keeping London's love affair with Spain alive – one small plate at a time.

What if your favourite restaurant changed chefs every few weeks? Mare Street newcomer Rocola combines an open kitchen, Latin-inspired bar and rotating programme of culinary residencies. The Knife stopped by during Colombian chef Sebastian Becerra's stint to see whether East London's new jukebox-themed restaurant is an idea worth putting on repeat.

Oysters, burrata, Bayonne ham, homemade focaccia, grilled prawns, and more – all for £29. The Knife heads to Galvin Bistrot & Bar in Spitalfields to discover why the Galvin brothers' 'Taste of Summer' menu might be one of London's best-value feasts, plus a first look at its upcoming one-night-only collaboration with Judy Joo.

Seabird is bringing the Balearics to Southwark this summer. Partnering with historic tequila house Herradura, the rooftop restaurant has unveiled a Mediterranean-inspired series featuring summer plates designed for sharing, bespoke tequila cocktails, panoramic city views and DJ sets curated by BBE Music. It's London's latest excuse to linger from long lunch to late-night drinks.

After a £10 million restoration, Bromley's historic Royal Bell has reopened as one of South East London's most ambitious hospitality destinations. Combining an all-day restaurant, artisan café, pizza kitchen, boutique hotel, members' club and live entertainment beneath one Grade II-listed roof, it's proving that heritage buildings don't just deserve preserving, they deserve filling with great food, great company and new stories.

The Broadcaster has unveiled its new menu, bringing seasonal British cooking to one of White City's most popular dining destinations. From yellowfin tuna crudo and Disco Scallops to wild garlic risotto and rare breed fillet, the new dishes showcase the best of the season, while a refreshed cocktail list and panoramic rooftop views make this a must-visit for food and drink lovers alike.

Cape Town’s food scene is having a moment, and few cities right now blend world-class dining, dramatic landscapes and genuine personality quite like South Africa’s coastal capital. From the theatrical tasting menus of La Colombe and Salsify to oceanside luxury at The Twelve Apostles, long lunches at The Vineyard and the electric energy of The Pot Luck Club, these are the restaurants and hotels defining modern Cape Town dining right now.

From Patrick Guilbaud to Pollen Street Social and back home to Dublin, Library Street's Kevin Burke reflects on building a restaurant rooted in pure flavour, team culture and a city he says is "seriously cool". With The Knife, Kevin talks about Michelin pressure, coddle cravings, and why stripping a dish back is often the hardest – and most rewarding – move.

Tucked down a quiet Mayfair street, El Pirata has been serving the true spirit of Spain for over three decades. With its sizzling tapas, strong Spanish wine list and famously warm hospitality, this neighbourhood taverna has become a London institution. Proof that you don’t need flash or fuss to last 31 years – just good food, good wine, and the kind of welcome that keeps people coming back.

The Knife marks its 100th article with a story of bold returns and reinventions. From Scott Hallsworth’s cult pan-Asian Freak Scene popping up at 100 Wardour Street, to Mike Reid’s revival of the classic chop house at Liverpool Street, The Evolv Collection is reshaping London dining. Heritage, rebellion and innovation collide – and 2026 looks set to be their biggest year yet.

Tucked inside Aldgate’s Hotel Saint, The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen is reimagining street food for the modern diner. Executive Chef Glen Padiyar blends global flavours with local East End energy, serving up sharable plates like Chicken Momos and Confit Duck Bao alongside British staples and bold cocktails. With a menu rooted in seasonality and spice, The Cardinal brings a taste of London’s streets to the comfort of a stylish hotel setting.