New Bistro No. Forty Nine Set to Open in St John’s Wood
A New Culinary Hub Arrives in St John's Wood
St John’s Wood is preparing for an exciting addition to its local high street this summer. Chef-owner Jake Finn, famous for his popular live-fire concept Cinder, is expanding his footprint in North West London. This June, he will launch No. Forty Nine, an innovative all-day bistro, bakery, and wine bar located just steps away from his existing restaurant. Partnering with talented chef Ella Williams, formerly of Hausu, Mountain, and Crispin, Finn aims to create a welcoming space that caters to the neighborhood's daily rhythm. While central london attractions like Buckingham Palace draw crowds of tourists, this new opening focuses heavily on enriching the local community. It offers residents a stylish yet cozy spot to gather, socialise, and enjoy high-quality food right on their doorstep. The launch is already generating buzz among locals who appreciate having top-tier dining options close to home, reducing the need to travel into busy central hubs like Soho for a sophisticated evening out. By building on his previous success in Belsize Park and St John's Wood, Finn is reinforcing the area’s growing reputation as a premier food destination.
From Morning Pastries to Nighttime Wine Bar
Designed to transition seamlessly from day to night, No. Forty Nine promises to be a versatile addition to the neighbourhood's daily life. Starting at 8:00 AM daily, the venue will operate as a bakery and café, serving fresh coffee, juices, and grab-and-go breakfast treats. Locals can look forward to inventive baked goods such as pastrami pain suisse, savory leek, cheddar and Marmite swirls, and sweet miso butterscotch canelés. As the clock strikes noon, the menu shifts to showcase Ella Williams' unique culinary style, which blends classic New York City bistro dishes with vibrant Mediterranean influences. Diners can enjoy sophisticated plates like crab choux buns, cornbread madeleines served with spicy scotch bonnet honey butter, and roasted aubergine with avjar. As night falls, the venue transforms into an intimate wine bar. The curated drink list will feature an evolving selection of Old World European wines, alongside low-intervention bottles and classic cocktails. This dynamic offering ensures that whether you are looking for a quick morning caffeine fix or a relaxed dinner with friends, this new spot has you covered. It is the perfect complement to the calendar of local london events happening throughout the year.
Creating a Warm and Welcoming Local Landmark
Beyond the exceptional food and drink, No. Forty Nine is designed to be a true community asset. The venue features a charming outdoor terrace, perfect for al fresco dining during the warmer summer months, as well as an indoor piano to host live music sessions. This focus on creating a warm, interactive atmosphere sets it apart from typical commercial eateries. It serves as a reminder that local high streets thrive when they offer spaces for genuine human connection. For residents, this opening is more than just another restaurant; it is a new neighborhood landmark. While iconic London attractions like Big Ben continue to dominate the tourist guides, places like St John's Wood High Street are where the real heart of the city beats. The addition of No. Forty Nine adds a fresh layer of excitement to the local culinary scene, making it an essential diary date for food lovers. As the grand opening on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026 approaches, the anticipation continues to build. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a visitor exploring beyond the usual tourist trails, this new bistro is set to become a cherished part of the community fabric.
