Good Food Guide unveils 2026 UK 100 Best Local Restaurants

The Good Food Guide has unveiled its 2026 list of Britain's 100 Best Local Restaurants, celebrating community-focused eateries across the country. The awards, now in their 16th year, were announced at a ceremony at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London on Monday, July 13, 2026.

The overall winner is La Locanda, an intimate trattoria in Gisburn, Lancashire. Regional winners include Black Wheat Club in York for Yorkshire and the North East, Wangs in Bristol for the South West, and Ar Bòrd on the Isle of Mull for Scotland. The list, which is ranked for the first time this year, highlights restaurants that offer value for money and high-quality cooking in a relaxed setting.

Chloë Hamilton, head of reviews and listings at the Good Food Guide, said creativity has flourished in unusual places despite industry challenges. She noted it is rewarding to see small operations offering outstanding quality that resonates with local communities.

Several cities saw multiple restaurants recognized. In Leeds, three establishments made the list: the Horsforth neighbourhood bistro Bavette ranked 16th nationally, The Empire Cafe on Fish Street placed 31st, and the newly opened Smithfield...