THE UK's first restaurant in a car is set to throw open its doors to diners as Hyundai announces the launch of Backseat Bites - a one-of-a-kind experience as 93 per cent of Brits say they're hungry for new experiences.

Inspired by the South Korean cultural phenomenon of Honbap, meaning to dine alone, the ‘drive and dine' concept has been launched amid an increase in appetite for personal escapes, with 45 per cent saying they've gone solo to the cinema, more than half holidaying by themselves, and two thirds going out for food out alone.

Seeking discovery and empowerment, six in 10 Brits plan to try a solo experience in the next six months, with Gen Z the most likely to take the plunge at 74 per cent.

Almost half of those surveyed enjoy both solo and group experiences equally, with nearly a fifth saying they prefer to ride solo over sharing them with friends and family.

Gen Z lead the charge compared to the elder generations, with a quarter preferring solo experiences, citing; valuing time alone, convenience and enjoying the freedom to try things others aren't interested in as the top reasons.

Tapping into this cultural shift, Hyundai is launching Backseat Bites - the UK's first restaurant in a car, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience inside their spacious new Inster, its fully electric city car.

The trend mirrors a cultural phenomenon from South Korea - the home of Hyundai - where going solo has evolved into a celebrated and aspirational lifestyle, with Honbap (dining alone), Honsul (drinking alone) and Honjok (embracing solo living) becoming ingrained in the culture.

The UK is following suit, with seven in 10 Brits agreeing that they find solo experiences empowering, with the most popular activities for individuals including:

The trend also reflects a growing global shift in how people value autonomy, mindfulness and personal fulfilment, with content around solo dating, dining and experiences going viral on social media.

Designed with both solo diners and curious duos in mind, Backseat Bites brings Korea to the streets of London.

The car is transformed into an intimate dining space, complete with bespoke Korean street art by illustrator Yoy Han, and a menu curated by the culinary experts at Chung'Dam.

Guests can experience authentic Korean delights with delicacies on offer include Beef Tartar, BBQ Pork Belly, and Cold Kimchi Noodles.

Ashley Andrew, president of Hyundai and Genesis UK, said: "Backseat Bites is more than just a restaurant. Designed for the nation's adventurers, whether solo or with friends, it offers guests an entirely unique taste of Korea from an unexpected location - the backseat of a car.

"Hosted from the comfort of our brand-new Inster, its spacious, stylish interior and fold-flat seating makes this latest addition to our range of EVs the perfect host for this unique experience.

"From the bespoke artwork to the traditional cuisine, Backseat Bites is a celebration of Korean culture and a tribute to the joy of doing things your own way."

Backseat Bites will be open to the public on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 in London's Soho in Greek Street, from 1pm to 8pm.

Launched this year, Hyundai's new Inster is priced from £23,495 and with the Hyundai Electric Grant there is £3,750 off the price as well as £1,500 off all other EVs, including the Kona Electric, Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 9.