The prestigious travel guide La Liste has unveiled its highly anticipated 2026 restaurant rankings, celebrating its tenth anniversary with a landmark announcement that sees 83 UK establishments earning places among the world's elite dining destinations.
Global Excellence Recognised
This year's edition marks a significant departure as ten restaurants from eight different countries share the top position, each achieving the exceptional score of 99.5 out of 100. The distinguished group includes Switzerland's Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl, France's Guy Savoy, Japan's Matsukawa, Italy's Da Vittorio, Spain's Martin Berasategui, Germany's Scwarzwaldstube, America's Le Bernardin and SingleThread, plus China's Lung King Heen and Robuchon au Dome.
British Contenders Shine
Leading the British charge is L'Enclume in the Lake District, chef Simon Rogan's three Michelin-starred restaurant that secured an impressive 99 points, placing it second globally. The intimate Cumbrian establishment, which accommodates just six diners at a time, exemplifies Rogan's farm-to-table philosophy using seasonal, traceable ingredients from his own farms.
London demonstrates its culinary prowess with multiple high-ranking entries. Core by Clare Smyth in Notting Hill follows closely with 98 points, renowned for its light atmosphere and exceptional service featuring dishes like Smoked Fowey mussels and Rhug Estate venison. The capital's legendary Ritz Hotel in Mayfair matches this score, maintaining its status as a celebrity favourite with two Michelin stars and opulent interiors.
Regional Excellence Across Britain
Beyond London, exceptional dining experiences abound across the UK. Moor Hall in Ormskirk, Lancashire, nestled within five acres of productive gardens, showcases chef Mark Birchall's commitment to local sourcing and boundary-pushing cuisine.
Wales contributes the extraordinary Ynyshir in Powys, where chef-owner Gareth Ward offers an immersive five-hour dining journey featuring approximately 30 global dishes within a distinctive matte-black setting.
Scotland's representation includes The Glenturret Lalique in Crieff, combining two Michelin stars with an exceptional whisky tasting experience set within Scotland's oldest distillery.
Other notable British inclusions span from Heston Blumenthal's groundbreaking The Fat Duck in Bray to Gordon Ramsay's flagship Chelsea restaurant and Alain Ducasse's establishment at The Dorchester, demonstrating the remarkable depth and diversity of the UK's fine dining scene.
