London, December 06, 2025
Jamie’s Italian is set to reopen in the UK with a new flagship restaurant in Leicester Square, London, planned for spring 2026, marking a return six years after the chain collapsed into administration due to significant debts. The relaunch is in partnership with Brava Hospitality Group, supported by private equity firm Cain International, aiming to revive the brand and the mid-market dining sector.
Relaunch and Partnership Details
The renewed Jamie’s Italian brand will re-enter the UK market through a flagship venue in Leicester Square, London’s prominent entertainment and dining district, opening in spring 2026. This initiative is a joint effort between celebrity chef Jamie Oliver and Brava Hospitality Group, the company behind casual dining chain Prezzo. Brava receives backing from Cain International, which provides both investment capital and operational expertise to support the new venture’s sustainability.
Background on the 2019 Collapse
Jamie’s Italian was initially launched in 2008 in Oxford and grew rapidly to about 40 locations across the UK. However, by 2019, the business faced financial difficulties, entering administration with debts estimated at around £80 million. This financial crisis forced the closure of all remaining UK branches, resulting in considerable job losses. Despite UK closures, Jamie’s Italian continued operations internationally with over 30 restaurants in 25 countries.
Significance of the UK Return
Jamie Oliver has emphasized the importance of re-establishing his brand on the UK high street, citing the need to bring renewed energy and quality to the mid-market dining sector, which he believes requires more “excitement, surprise and delight.” The involvement of Brava Hospitality provides operational strength and long-term investment, factors considered critical to avoiding past challenges and fostering steady growth.
Concept Evolution and Operational Strategy
According to Brava Hospitality, the Jamie’s Italian concept has undergone significant evolution to better align with contemporary market demands. The updated model positions itself as “world-class Italian dining” suitable for high street customers, combining Jamie Oliver’s culinary vision with Brava’s operational capabilities. This partnership aims to produce a modern, sustainable dining experience responsive to current consumer expectations.
Future Outlook and Broader Impact
The Leicester Square restaurant will be the first UK Jamie’s Italian in several years, with successful performance potentially leading to further expansion under the Brava partnership. This relaunch forms part of a larger effort to rejuvenate and rethink hospitality offerings on the UK high street, emphasizing modern, high-quality concepts that respond to changing consumer lifestyles and the evolving dining landscape.