Chef Lee Tiernan has announced his plan to “pause” – rather than permanently close – FKABAM (Black Axe Mangal), the cult heavy-metal restaurant he and his wife Kate have operated on Highbury Corner for the past 10 years.
He intends to maintain the restaurant space and operate his own pop-up there next year, while floating the possibility of FKABAM pop-ups or residencies elsewhere. The last meals in its current guise will be served on 20 December.
FKABAM wins high ratings in the new 2026 Harden’s guide, where it is described as “Noisy, a bit bonkers but really delicious” and “one of the most fun places to eat in town”, with food that is “spectacular”.
Explaining his decision, Lee said: “Being original, creative and keeping it fun for ourselves — as well as our customers — has always been the centre of why we do this. So how do you celebrate 10 years of running a restaurant? Well, in our case, it’s changing things up while it still feels good.
“I love and value all we have achieved with FKABAM and will continue cooking in our unique style, turning up the volume at events and future collaborations. It has been a somewhat difficult year outside the restaurant, but thanks to our brilliant, talented team, we’ve been able to step back a little to focus on our family, get some perspective, and this is where we’ve landed. It’s important to remember this is a pause, not a stop.”
