What We’re Reading

A first look at The Wellington, Margate

The Wellington is new pub in Margate Old Town by former St. John and Marksman chef Billy Stock. Heading down to Margate over the Christmas break? It’s closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day but otherwise open straight through. Try the “uncomplicatedly good” chicken and leek pie, supposedly for two.

The Good Food Guide

The restaurant openings of the year

CODE asked a panel of experts for their openings of the year and the restaurants they’re most forward looking forward to in 2026. Some got multiple votes. Any guesses?

CODE

Has the service charge system ruined tipping?

A provocative take on a topical issue. John Ennis in Class isn’t arguing against ‘teamwork, fairness or support’ but worries ‘we risk losing the fire that used to push bartenders to be exceptional’.

Class

David Ellis reviews Riva, Barnes: AA Gill’s favourite restaurant is still in a league of its own

How refreshing to see the Standard’s critic David Ellis visit a 35-year-old neighbourhood restaurant in Barnes. Four stars for this favourite of Fay Maschler, Stanley Tucci, Simon Hopkinson and Bryan Ferry (Bryan Ferry!). “Special treatment? Everyone gets it.”

The Standard