Jamie Oliver plans to bring back Jamie's Italian in the UK with a relaunch in 2026.

Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver is set to relaunch his Jamies Italian restaurant chain in the UK in 2026, ending a six-year pause following the brands administration in 2019. This comeback comes through a partnership with Brava Hospitality Group, backed by Cain International, which also owns the Prezzo restaurant chain.

The renewed Jamies Italian will feature a refreshed concept and approach, aiming to reestablish itself on the UK high street. The first new location is scheduled to open in Londons Leicester Square in spring 2026.

At its height, Jamies Italian operated 40 restaurants across the UK. The chain began shutting sites in 2017 as part of a restructuring effort and eventually entered administration in 2019, resulting in around 1,000 job losses. Oliver previously attributed the closures to challenges facing the casual dining sector, the decline of UK high streets, and rising business rates.

Despite the UK setbacks, Jamie Oliver has continued to maintain a global presence via franchise operations, with 70 restaurants still operating internationally under franchise agreements.

James Brown, CEO of Brava Hospitality Group, commented on LinkedIn: This brand has always represented more than food its about community, people, and purpose. This next chapter is truly meaningful.

Ed Loftus, global director of Jamie Oliver Restaurants, added: Weve carefully redesigned Jamies Italian to feel modern and focused. The menu will be streamlined with an emphasis on fresh pasta and quality ingredients, and we aim to offer warm, simple hospitality. Our focus is on making the first location outstanding, and its success will guide our growth strategy.

In September 2025, Indian investment firm Hunch Ventures acquired Jamie Oliver Restaurants from International Market Management, gaining exclusive rights to operate Jamies Pizzeria, Jamies Italian, and Jamie Oliver Kitchen in India. Hunch Ventures plans to expand the brand into Tier-2 and Tier-3 Indian cities using a combination of company-owned and franchise outlets.

Author: Grace Ellison