Nela, the acclaimed Amsterdam restaurant, has officially opened its doors at London’s iconic landmark, The Whiteley. This marks the brand’s third step in international expansion, following its success in Amsterdam and the recent launch in Ibiza. Nela blends style with a spirited energy – a place where striking design, warm hospitality, and a touch of glamour create London’s most exciting new dining experience.
Founded in 2021 by leading chefs Hari Shetty and Ori Geller as well as British Entrepreneur, Gilad Hayeem, Nela established itself as a key player in the international restaurant scene with their first site in Amsterdam followed by Ibiza and now London. The word Nela means pure, reflecting the restaurant’s philosophy of high-quality, hand-picked ingredients, cooked using innovative techniques and a mastery of fire.
Nela naturally showcases many of the flame-cooked signatures with a menu that is inspired by a blend of locally and globally sourced ingredients, all brought to life through fire and modern culinary techniques. The menu is thoughtfully divided into sections, featuring everything from freshly baked breads and pizzas to vibrant vegetables and flame-kissed meats. It also highlights raw and cured specialties, with standout plates such as Yellowtail with Burnt Aubergine and Pickled Turnip, Beef ribeye Tartare with Langoustine, and Oysters with Fermented chilli. Diners can also expect large cuts of meat and fish seared to perfection, from slow cooked Scottish short-rib to Half Lobster with Guajillo butter and mandarin, while vegetables and salads are given equal attention, including standouts such as Artichoke on Amber coals and Grilled crispy corn tempura. For the perfect finish to any experience, the pudding menu features Nela’s signature Tiramisu with Coffee Caviar, freshly baked Madeleines, and a show-stopping Baked Alaska with yuzu-infused meringue, flambéed tableside.
As with everything at Nela, there is a sense of vibrancy and elegance in the drinks programme, where an extensive wine list with unique offerings from around the world joins a line up of classic and innovative cocktails. Crafted by Bar Manager, Davide Mangiamele, some favourites include Unspoken Truth, Nela’s take on a spicy margarita made with Don Julio Blanco, Don Julio Reposado, Italicus, Beesou honey aperitif, lime, jalapeno honey ice and the Burning Confession, a Tanquery-based cocktail with raspberry and rose shrub, lemon, chamomile and honey foam.
