Food & Drinks

Fancy Going Out in London? Good Luck Finding a Table Now

Despite the gloomy UK budget, the city’s restaurants are bustling this holiday season. 

The dining room at the new Hawksmoor St Pancras. The group’s holiday bookings are up about 15% compared to last year.

Source: Hawksmoor

Unless you live under a rock you know that budget woes have pushed Brits to cut back on dining out this year. According to an October YouGov GB Dining Out Report, 38% are eating out less than they did a year ago. Even for higher-income diners, that number is 29%.

But you wouldn’t know it if you’ve tried to find a table in London lately. Despite dreary budget news, dining rooms around the city, especially at higher-profile places, are seeing an increase in holiday bookings from last year. It’s a trend that suggests customers are prioritizing experiences over other spending.