It’s been six years since Jamie’s Italian dramatically disappeared from UK high streets. But it turns out, that goodbye wasn’t forever – Jamie Oliver is officially bringing Jamie’s Italian back from the dead next year.
The restaurant is set to make its grand return in Leicester Square in London in spring 2026 in a partnership with fellow Italian chain Prezzo. Brava Hospitality Group, the organisation that runs Prezzo, will be in charge of relaunching Jamie’s in the UK, and Jamie himself will be hands-on with shaping what the new restaurants will look like.
Jamie Oliver said of the news: ‘As a chef, having the chance to return to the high street is incredibly important to me. In theory it’s not the easiest time to return but conversely, I think it’s the perfect time.
‘I believe the mid-market needs excitement, surprise and delight and that’s exactly what I am planning on delivering. I will drive the menus, make sure the sourcing is right, the staff training, and ensure the look and feel of the restaurant is brought to life in the right way.’
The chef’s restaurant chain was a British high street stalwart from 2008 to 2019, when it went bust and was forced to shut all of its UK branches. It still runs 30 restaurants overseas.
James Brown, the chief executive of Brava, added: ‘Our ambition is to bring world-class Italian dining to the heart of the UK high street. A lot of time and energy has gone into evolving the Jamie’s Italian concept to make that vision a reality.
‘This marks an exciting new chapter for both Jamie’s Italian and Brava, and reflects our commitment to reimagining the high street with exceptional, modern hospitality.’
Check out the best Italian restaurants in London.
ICYMI: The UK is set to get its first new Center Parcs resort in 10 years.
Plus: Shake Shack is opening its first ever restaurant in the north of England in 2026.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.