Key Points
- Havering saw several new restaurant and café openings throughout 2025.
- Notable additions included Sutra, Kaani Kaana, and other establishments across Romford, Hornchurch, and Upminster.
- Sutra—a Pan-Indian kitchen and bar—officially opened on February 21, 2025, taking over the former site of Kushi in Gidea Park.
- Director Parsanna Rao described Sutra as bringing “the best of India from the north to the south” and “offering something new to the area,” as reported by the Romford Recorder.
- Kaani Kaana, an award-winning Indian and Bangladeshi takeaway, launched a new branch in St Mary’s Lane, Upminster on April 25, 2025.
- In October 2025, Kaani Kaana was named Best Asian Takeaway in the Country at the Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards (ARTA)—known as the “Curry Oscars.”
- Managing Director Sadiq Ahmed expressed gratitude to customers, stating the win “lit an even bigger fire” in the team.
- Other eateries introduced diverse cuisines, from Mediterranean grills to artisanal coffee shops, reflecting the borough’s growing culinary culture.
- Local business owners cited Havering’s vibrant community and renewed appetite for dining out post-pandemic as main reasons for expansion.
What Is the Story Behind Havering’s Culinary Boom?
Havering’s food scene experienced a renaissance in 2025, with restaurant openings accelerating across Romford, Gidea Park, Hornchurch, and Upminster. The borough—traditionally known for its family-run establishments and suburban charm—welcomed a mix of independent brands and ambitious hospitality entrepreneurs who revitalised previously quiet locations.
Several business owners attributed their decision to invest in Havering to the area’s growing population and strong commuter links to London. As reported by Essex Live’s food correspondent in early 2025, the borough witnessed “renewed optimism from hospitality leaders who see Havering as one of the fastest-developing food hubs east of London.”
How Has Sutra Redefined Indian Dining in Gidea Park?
One of the most talked-about openings this year was Sutra, a Pan-Indian kitchen and bar located on Main Road, Gidea Park. The restaurant officially launched on February 21, 2025, according to Romford Recorder reporter Freddie Lynne. The venue occupies the site of the former Indo-Japanese restaurant Kushi, which closed in late 2024.
As Freddie Lynne reported in the Recorder, Parsanna Rao, Director of Sutra Hospitality Ltd, said during the launch event:
“Sutra takes the best of India from the north to the south, celebrating diversity on every plate. We’re offering something new to the area and want to make fine Indian dining accessible yet modern.”
The restaurant’s interiors feature warm lighting, copper detailing, and a cocktail lounge, creating an atmosphere described by locals as “sophisticated yet relaxed.” Food critics praised its fusion of regional flavours, from Kerala-style prawns to Lucknowi kebabs, positioning Sutra as a landmark addition to Havering’s fine dining map.
By mid-year, the restaurant had achieved consistent positive reviews on local dining platforms and social media groups. Residents commended its balance of authenticity and innovation, while hospitality observers applauded the revival of Gidea Park’s dining strip following a quiet period after the pandemic.
Why Has Kaani Kaana Earned National Recognition?
Another major highlight of 2025 was the Upminster launch of Kaani Kaana, a celebrated Indian and Bangladeshi takeaway brand known for its quality and community ethos. The new branch on St Mary’s Lane opened officially on April 25, 2025, expanding the company’s footprint in Essex.
As reported by Romford Recorder journalist Adam Smith, Kaani Kaana achieved national acclaim later that year. On October 6, 2025, the takeaway was crowned Best Asian Takeaway in the Country at the Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards (ARTA), often dubbed the “Curry Oscars.”
At the awards ceremony, Managing Director Sadiq Ahmed expressed immense pride, stating:
“Winning this award for the second time in three years has lit an even bigger fire in our bellies. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts—your support means everything, and these awards are for you as much as they are for us.” (Romford Recorder, 2025.)
The restaurant’s menu focuses on regional curries prepared with fresh ingredients and bold flavours. Customers have praised its consistency, generous portions, and devotion to culinary heritage. The recognition at ARTA elevated the brand’s status, drawing visitors from across Havering and neighbouring boroughs.
What Other New Eateries Opened Across Havering in 2025?
Beyond Sutra and Kaani Kaana, several other cafés and restaurants contributed to Havering’s flourishing dining landscape:
- The Green Bean Café (Hornchurch): Reported by Havering Daily, this eco-themed café opened in Station Lane in May 2025, specialising in sustainably sourced coffee and vegan-inspired brunches. Owner Emily Parsons said, “We wanted to bring a touch of conscience to cooking.”
- La Mediterranea (Romford): According to Essex Live reporter James Paul, the venue opened in July, offering a menu centred on fresh seafood, tapas, and grilled vegetables. Customers called it “the perfect Mediterranean escape in town.”
- Smokehouse at The Brewery (Romford): In mid-August, Romford Recorder noted the launch of this casual dining smokehouse featuring British barbecue classics with a modern twist. Its founder Mark Harrington stated, “Romford needed a relaxed meat-lover’s destination, and we’ve built exactly that.”
- Corso Café (Upminster Bridge): A contemporary coffee and dessert spot that opened in November, reported by Havering Daily, quickly becoming a favourite for commuters and students.
Each new entrant adds personality to its respective area, transforming Havering’s suburban dining profile into a diverse culinary circuit appealing to all tastes.
How Have Residents and Local Economies Benefited?
Local economists and councillors have observed that restaurant openings often correlate with increased footfall and economic activity. As Cllr. Gillian Ford, Cabinet Member for Economic Development (Havering Council), told Essex Live in October 2025:
“Every new restaurant represents job creation, skill development, and renewed confidence in our high streets. The success of independent ventures here is helping us attract visitors not only from Havering but across East London.”
Residents echo similar sentiments. Social media forums brimmed with positive reviews and photos, suggesting a stronger sense of community engagement around local businesses. The post-pandemic appetite for in-person dining has strengthened last-mile economies and revived dormant units once feared to remain vacant.
What Do Analysts Predict for 2026?
Analysts believe the expansion of Havering’s food sector will continue. According to a December 2025 Romford Recorder editorial, local property developers have noted an increase in hospitality investments. Several upcoming projects in 2026 include boutique patisseries planned for Elm Park and a fusion grill in Collier Row.
Culinary consultants predict more hybrid dining formats—combining dine-in with takeaway-friendly menus—to address changing consumer behaviour. Digital food ordering, sustainable packaging, and locally sourced ingredients are also likely to remain strong trends.
Havering’s dynamic food scene in 2025 demonstrates both recovery and reinvention. From Sutra’s elegant take on Indian cuisine to Kaani Kaana’s national recognition and the surge of independent cafés, the borough has cemented itself as one of Greater London’s most promising culinary destinations. With momentum building and community support evident, 2026 could see Havering emerge as a true east London food capital.
