East London’s popular restaurant Bambi is planning a major transformation that will double its current space by early 2026. The ambitious expansion project comes in response to sustained demand for tables since the restaurant first opened. This significant extension will increase overall covers and support higher guest volumes during peak evening trading hours.
The revamped layout will improve flow between the bar, dining room, and DJ area, creating a more cohesive experience for patrons. Additional banquette and counter seating will maximize capacity, while design updates will enhance the venue’s late-night, music-led atmosphere. Special attention is being paid to acoustics and lighting to support the shift from dinner service to evening entertainment. The restaurant is scheduled for temporary closure next week and plans to reopen in early February after the renovation.
Bambi is positioning itself as a music-focused bar-restaurant with regular DJ programming. The expanded space will feature an upgraded sound system to support higher-quality sets. This hybrid concept aligns with East London‘s trend for listening bars combined with dining spaces, with programming expected to emphasize vinyl-led or curated playlists to differentiate the venue from competitors.
The kitchen will undergo a complete overhaul under the direction of new head chef Jamie Thorneycroft, who joined Bambi in 2025. Thorneycroft brings valuable experience from high-profile London kitchens. The larger kitchen will support an increased menu range, with new equipment enabling open-flame and grill cookery techniques. Drawing inspiration from upcoming restaurant Impala, the menu will feature charcoal grill concept dishes that showcase diverse culinary influences. Similar to the Soho-based Impala opening in March 2026, Bambi will focus on creating a lively atmosphere centered around live fire cooking techniques.
The menu direction will lean into wood-fired or flame-driven cooking styles, featuring bold flavors suited to the late-night, music-bar setting. Dishes will balance shareable plates with a smaller selection of larger mains, designed to accommodate both casual drinkers and full dining experiences.
The expansion also supports stronger bar-led revenue, particularly during late-night DJ sessions. The drinks menu will highlight natural or low-intervention wines alongside cocktails. With additional bar space increasing capacity for standing guests during peak DJ nights, Bambi is targeting East London’s crowd seeking a combined dining and nightlife experience.
