Khao-Sō-i London targeted in break-in months after opening
A newly opened London restaurant has confirmed it was broken into less than two months after launching, highlighting the growing pressures facing independent hospitality businesses in the capital.
Khao-Sō-i London shared the news via its official Instagram account, posting an image showing a shattered glass door following what it described as a break-in overnight. The incident occurred shortly after the restaurant opened its doors, with the team saying it was something they “never imagined facing so early on”.
The post on social media read: "Less than two months after opening our doors, our store was broken into last night, something we never imagined facing so early on.
"While this has been a difficult moment for us, what matters most is that our team is safe. This space was built with care and a genuine love for our community, and we are moving forward focused on rebuilding and continuing what we started. Thank you for all the messages and kind support we’ve received since day one."
Despite the damage, the message struck a resilient tone, with the business confirming it intended to move forward and continue trading.
The post prompted an outpouring of support from fellow operators, chefs and customers across the industry, with many offering words of encouragement and solidarity in the comments.
Khao-Sō-i London has built an early reputation for its Northern Thai-inspired cooking, with a focus on khao soi and regional flavours, and is among a wave of independent openings bringing specialist, chef-led concepts to central London.
At the time of announcing the opening of the restaurant, founder Win Srinavakool commented: “We started Khao-Sō-i with one goal, to create the perfect bowl of Khao Soi that the world will come to know and love. Fitzrovia is the next step in that story, and we’re excited to bring the flavours of Northern Thailand to the heart of London.
"Our vision is to create a space that feels warm and welcoming, a place where guests can feel truly at home. By incorporating elements of Northern Thailand and Lanna culture, the space represents the best of our heritage while highlighting the craftsmanship that defines who we are.
"From the materials we use to the handcrafted details, every part of the space tells the story of the care and dedication that goes into each bowl of Khao Soi. It embodies our pride in sharing a piece of home with the world.”
A wider challenge for independents
The restaurant has not confirmed whether trading will be affected in the short term, but said its focus remains on rebuilding and continuing to serve its customers.
As messages of support continue to roll in, the incident has once again shone a light on the realities faced by independent operators launching new ventures in the current hospitality climate.
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Khao-Sō-i London targeted in break-in months after opening
