The moment Londoners have been waiting for has finally arrived. IKEA has announced the opening date of its massive new Oxford Street store, which will officially open on 1 May 2025. More importantly, the new opening hails the arrival of a 130-seater Swedish deli where shoppers can refuel after some intense home retail therapy with a plate of meatballs and mash.
For any keen followers of the Swedish furniture brand, you’ll remember that IKEA was originally set to move into the former flagship Topshop site on Oxford Street in autumn 2023, but a slew of delays forced the store to push its opening date back by a not insignificant two years.
If you’re in need of a quick refresh, the brand purchased the site for a reported £378 million back in 2022, covering a total retail space of 5,800 sq ft. The three-year renovation has seen the brand invest in specialised work to improve its sustainability credentials, such as installing new insulation and a heat pump, as well as specific measures to preserve the building's listed heritage features.
Naturally, we’re most excited for its enormous cafe which will take over a section of the lower ground floor. Hungry shoppers will be able to order plenty of beloved IKEA classics, including the brand’s signature meatballs served with mashed potato, lingonberry jam and a cream sauce – all for less than a fiver! You’ll also be able to grab a hot dog for just 75p, although considering the size of the deli, we expect that pretty much every IKEA classic you can think of will be available here.
Also on the lower ground floor will be a series of roomset displays, plus a home planning hub where shoppers can book one-to-one design consultations with one of the brand’s furnishing design experts.
There’s currently a Hus of FRAKTA pop-up concept in the store next door celebrating its signature blue bags, although you’ll need to squeeze in a visit over the next few weeks, as it's set to close on 23 March 2025.
Wondering where else to eat in the area? Check out our list of the best restaurants in Soho for a plethora of cool and classy spots.