Filipino-French bistro Belly, which opened in Kentish Town Road in May 2025. was praised by inspectors for its “concise menu that’s full of originality and appeal”.
The 35-cover eaterie, which focuses on wood-fired cooking, is the newest venture from Kentish Town local Omar Shah, who owns several other food venues on the same street.
The 35-seat bistro serves dishes that blend Filipino and French influences. (Image: Aleksandra Boruch)
Dishes at Belly include tempura cod pandesal with American cheese and salty salmon roe in a sweet Filipino bun, scallops in coconut cream, woodland mushroom arroz caldo, oak smoked herb chicken, and custard profiterole.
Posting on their website Belly described the accolade as: “A milestone for modern Filipino-French cooking in London”.
“We’re proud to share that Belly Bistro has officially been selected for the Michelin Guide,” it added.
“For us, this recognition is less about prestige and more about validation, validation of the quiet, consistent work that happens every single day in our kitchen, our dining room, and behind the scenes.”
They added that inclusion in the Michelin Guide spotlights restaurants that demonstrate quality cooking, strong identity, and consistency.
“It’s not about hype or trends, it’s about craft, care, and clarity of vision. Belly was created as a modern bistro rooted in technique-driven French cooking, layered with Filipino flavours, memories, and ingredients. This acknowledgement tells us that our voice, understated but intentional, is being heard.”
Belly’s addition to the Michelin Guide to the UK and Ireland comes after being named best new restaurant to open in 2025 by website The Infatuation.
Michelin inspectors wrote: “Your belly will certainly be full after visiting this warm and welcoming Filipino bistro where the flavour-packed cooking will quickly have you planning your return.
“The concise menu is full of originality and appeal, making choosing the hardest thing you’ll do all day. Do you go for the signature cod pandesal or the fabulous scallops ‘Bicol Express’? Wagyu picanha or seafood calderata? Whatever you opt for, the terrific flavours will shine through.
“Finish with the unusual-sounding but utterly joyous frozen custard profiterole with salty fish sauce caramel.”
Belly is located at 157 Kentish Town Road, London, NW1. bellylondon.com
Dining and Cooking