Ugly Gems

It's the inside that counts

It’s the inside
that counts.

"Ugly" Gems is a global series hosted by Jono Lancaster, spotlighting flavour-first restaurants that favour soul over style.

From flickering neon signs to handwritten menus, these spots might not look the part, but the food speaks for itself.

Because real beauty lives in the taste.

Discover your next "Ugly" Gem.

‘Ugly’ gems episodes

London, United Kingdom

7 Floor Malaysia Tea Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Chicky Grill Bar Copenhagen

Your ‘Ugly’ gems
Share your ‘ugly’ gems
Share your ‘ugly’ gems

Share your gem

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR IN THE ‘UGLY’ GEM RESTAURANTS

A restaurant that doesn’t fit the typical idea of “beautiful”
Full of soul, character, and story
Local, authentic, and all about taste
Visual quirks that show they care more about food than aesthetics
Bonus points if it’s a local secret or run by a family