A local food festival encouraging residents to dine out and support local restaurants is set to return this Friday.
Londonlicious was Relaunched in 2023 and presented by Growing Chefs! Ontario, a London-based non-profit that unites chefs, growers, educators and community members in children’s food education projects.
The festival is held twice a year, in winter and summer, to showcase patio season and to support restaurants during slower months. The 2026 winter edition of Londonlicious runs from Jan. 16 to Feb. 8 and features about 50 restaurants offering special menus across the city.
“January is traditionally very difficult for restaurants,” said Jennifer Wyant, executive administrator at Growing Chefs! Ontario and Londonlicious. “This festival is designed to bring people through their doors at a time when business is usually slow.”
For the first time, all participating restaurants are required to highlight at least one local farmer or supplier on their menu, connecting diners with food producers from Southwestern Ontario.
“Behind every plate is a story,”Wyant said. “We want people to know where their food comes from and who they’re supporting.”
Among the returning participants is Yasmine’s Restaurant.
Photo taken by Co-founder of Yasmine’s Restaurant Farah Benni
Farah Benni Co-founder of Yasmine’s Restaurant and Yasmine’s Express said the event provides a platform for restaurants to showcase what makes them unique while bringing the community together.
“This is our fifth year participating, and it’s something we genuinely look forward to,” Benni said, adding that it also helps attract new customers and encourages repeat visits beyond January.
According to festival impact reports, Londonlicious has grown significantly since its relaunch. In 2024, 44 restaurants welcomed around 20,000 diners, generating an estimated $1.1 million for the local economy. By 2025, participation increased to 50 restaurants and roughly 30,000 attendees, with economic impact nearly doubling to $1.95 million.
The festival runs until the weekend before Valentine’s Day.
For more information and to participate, visit https://londonlicious.ca/ .
