One of the few silver linings to emerge from the pandemic was the rise of excellent outdoor restaurants in London. Many of London’s best restaurants are now firmly in on the act, and al-fresco finger-licking is no longer reserved for park benches and tasty street food spots – of which the capital has many, we must add. While London’s best pubs are no strangers to outdoor crowds the moment a slither of sunshine peeks through the overcast springtime skies, it took a while for true gastronomic temples to embrace the great outdoors. Now, alongside pretty outdoor bars and pub gardens, you can enjoy multi-course sittings among friends and foliage, people-watching to your heart's content. These are the tastiest tried-and-tested outdoor restaurants in London spots for a hearty seasonal spread.
1. Hyde Park Garden, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
Arguably the most picturesque outdoor setting that London has to offer – the Mandarin Oriental on the edge of London’s most iconic green has opened its doors for summer, offering views of leafy Hyde Park with the occasional parade from The Household Cavalry on horseback trotting towards Buckingham Palace. There are only a few tables on the outdoor terrace, under huge parasols amongst a manicured English garden. The menu, designed by Heston Blumenthal’s team, is inspired by fresh botanical ingredients, reminiscent of the garden. Long lunches should be enjoyed with wine pairings or a floral cocktail. To start we loved the oysters, which come with three different dressings, and the freshes pea and ham hock salad. There are mains of lobster, fillet of beef, smoked mackerel and a veggie option of asparagus, artichoke and smoked goats curd. Come evening the menu changes to boards and bubbles. There’s plenty of English sparkling to choose from while you nibble on boards of cheese and charcuterie. Sophie Knight
Address: Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA
Website: mandarinoriental.com
2. The Maine, Mayfair
Within a hidden courtyard, just metres from Hanover Square, Maine’s summer terrace is a quiet haven away from the heaving streets of Central London. Somewhere between a stately home and a French Brasserie, the restored Georgian townhouse – with beautiful period features – wouldn’t be amiss in aromantic film. Serving Champagne and fresh seafood at its raw bar, including some of the best oysters in the capital, this romance is further reflected in the menu. It’s a great place for after-work drinks and snacks, thanks to two-for-one happy hour drinks on the terrace on weekdays, 4-6pm.Lily Bonesso
Address:The Maine, Unit 6, Medici Courtyard Back Entrance of, 20 Hanover Square, London W1S 1JY
Website:themainemayfair.com
3. Casa do Frango, multiple locations
Authentic Portuguese flavours, al-fresco – we’re sold. This is what’s on offer at multiple Casa do Frango sites, where the terraces are some of the best seats in town for a convivial dining experience. Juicy chicken brushed in piri piri seasoning is the star of the show, but oregano or lemon and garlic marinades are available for younger, or spice-averse, palates. Go crazy on the sides and sharing dishes – African rice and garlic prawns for the win – and get everyone together for some outdoor fun, come rain or shine. On Heddon Street, settle in on the sheltered terrace and watch shoppers amble through the hidden alleyway, or head to Sir Simon Milton Square for an ideally located midweek meal close to Victoria Station. Out East, the Shoreditch terrace is great for long, lazy lunches and punchy cocktails before launching into the buzzy neighbourhood’s nightlife. Connor Sturges
4. Orasay: A Culinary Delight in Notting Hill
The quaint charm of a particular Notting Hill sidestreet instantly transports you to a vacation-like state of mind. Amongst this tranquility, Orasay stands as a delightful discovery that remains etched in memory long after your visit. The highlight of this gem is its predominantly seafood-themed menu, which joyously embraces the freshest seasonal offerings and continually evolves each month based on availability. On the menu, anticipate succulent delights such as pan-seared scallops, oven-roasted prawns, and authentic Donegal oysters, culminating in an enticing range of desserts, each thoughtfully accompanied by a digestive or a lusciously sweet dessert wine. Their unique alfresco dining at the kerbside is limited, hence early booking prior to your gastronomic adventure is highly suggested.
Location:Orasay, 31 Kensington Park Road, W11 2EU
Official Site:orasay.london
5. Casa Pastor in King’s Cross
Seeking a weather-proof open-air dining experience? Casa Pastor, nestled on the ground level of the shopping paradise, Coal Drops Yard at King's Cross, is a perfect choice. Its comforting Mexican menu features delights such as pork belly and octopus tacos, crab tostadas, along with sharing plates of short rib. The establishment takes pride in its rich array of mezcals and tequilas, perfect for a leisurely sip under a warm sunbeam.
Did you know that the selection of mezcal at Casa Pastor is a curated range from various regions of Mexico? Each variant holds a distinctive flavour profile worth exploring. And guess what? They also host Taco Tuesdays where the guests can experience unique taco creations each week.
Location:Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, N1C 4DQ
Official Site:Visit Here
6. Ombra, A Gem in Bethnal Green
Imagine yourself basking in the gentle sunshine while comfortably seated on Ombra's sheltered terrace, a glass of spritz in hand. The serene ambiance of Regent's Canal by your side could easily let you lose track of the fact you're in bustling East London. The lure of their delectable, fresh and housemade pasta dishes further elevates this illusion. Ombra offers its patrons an assortment of true Italian delicacies, each harmoniously paired with select wines from Italy. You could opt for their sampler dinner menu priced at £65 per head if you're undecided on your choice of dish. But remember, leaving without tasting their Tiramisu is a missed opportunity.
Location:Ombra, One Vyner Street, E2 9DG
Website:ombrabar.restaurant
7. Fallow - A Trendsetter in St James's
Fallow, located in the heart of Mayfair, takes centre stage among London's gourmands. This dining gem was conceptualized and brought to fruition by two veteran chefs, lauded for their tenure at the prominent Dinner by Heston. A commitment to sustainability spearheads their vision, manifesting in a ticking menu that seldom remains the same. Among the star creations are bold courses such as venison tartare, aromatic delicacies like Cornish mackerel, and smoked sausage adorned with a unique apple ketchup. Not to be outdone, the Fallow burger is a charmer - layering aged dairy cow, braised short rib, bacon, shallot, and cheese, all tucked inside a fluffy brioche bun. Rain or sun, the eatery's outdoor terrace stands ready with heating, offering a year-round al-fresco dining experience.
Location:10 Heddon Street, London W1B 4BX, Fallow
Discover more at:fallowrestaurant.com
8. Borough Market, Borough
The original outdoor/indoor foodie haunt,Borough Market is the place to go for large groups, particularly when different palates need to be catered to. It may be a push to pull it into our outdoor restaurants in London guide, but we have no shame when it comes to our love of this delicious oasis. Pick up hot pasta from Padella if you’re prepared to brave the queue, or try a little harder and secure one of the few tables lined up outside the restaurant. Applebee’s Fishbox is the place to go for scrumptious seafood wraps, Taiwanese street food at its finest is on offer at Bao Borough, and Gourmet Goat’s sustainable Cypriot fare is never a bad idea. Before leaving to explore one of the intriguing London attractions nearby or laze away an afternoon in a park, bag up doughnuts from Bread Ahead and a bottle of something from family-run wine merchants Cartwright Brothers Vintners.
Address:Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
Website:padella.co;meimei.uk
9. The Much-adored Rochelle Canteen in Shoreditch
Positioned snugly within the premises of a transformed primary school in Shoreditch, the Rochelle Canteen has ingeniously erected a warm and inviting gazebo. This allowed the continuance of serving up the much-loved comfort food classics by Melanie Arnold and Margot Henderson. Its staying power is commendable, adding to the value of its longevity. Customers can expect to find delectable dishes like flame-grilled octopus, a unique combination of snails and bacon, or perhaps, the devilishly good crab on toast. It holds the crown for offering the most coveted school dinners, unmatched in class.
Address: 16 Playground Gardens, London E2 7FA, Rochelle Canteen
Website:Discover More at arnoldandhenderson.com
10. Petersham Nurseries Café, Richmond
Although we’ve been spending more time than ever in gardens over the past few years, none come close to the verdant surroundings of Petersham Nurseries. The flower-filled glasshouse restaurant has a heated pergola for maximum al-fresco comfort and serves thoughtful seasonal dishes such as risotto with kale, spinach and bottarga, seabass ceviche with lime, chilli and coriander, and lemon sole with beurre noisette and sea beets. Go for a long lunch or an early supper to leave time to browse the nursery and take home some new leafy friends to enhance your own outdoor space.
Address:Petersham Nurseries Café, Off Church Lane, Petersham Road, Richmond TW10 7AB
Website:petershamnurseries.com
11. La Goccia Petersham Nurseries, Covent Garden
This has to be the prettiest courtyard in the West End. Complete with flower installations, huge terracotta pots, and the smartest outdoor furniture we've ever seen, this is the second restaurant from Petersham Nurseries inCovent Garden. La Goccia is more casual than Petersham next door (which also has a small number of tables outside), serving delicious plates of crunchy signature fried chicken, homemade rigatoni with beef ragu, and hearty potato gnocchi with pancetta, peas and parmesan. Everything on the plate is as pretty as the surroundings and really that’s the draw – a setting as good for a glass of rosé and a bowl of smoked almonds as it is for a full-on feast.
Address:Petersham Nurseries, Floral Court, London WC2E 9FB
Website:petershamnurseries.com
12. The Exquisite Allegra in Stratford
Residing on the seventh tier of The Stratford Hotel, you'll find Allegra. This spectacular farm-to-table eatery managed by Patrick Powell, a celebrated chef renowned for his accomplishments at tophotels.com. Accentuated by the subtle Scandi-style décor, the gastronomy steals the show here. Some of their culinary delights include an appetizer of crab accompanied by barbecued carrot and potato vichyssoise, whilst a typical main could present the taste of line-caught pollock and lobster entwined with flavourful seasonal flourishings. The restaurant's terrace is a serene sanctuary amidst a lofty wildflower meadow and is enriched by the calming presence of various water features. The ambience of Allegra is enhanced further by its proximity to the tranquil waterways near linden house riverside, offering a picturesque backdrop that dovetails seamlessly with the restaurant’s elegant dining experience. Savoring the delectable cuisine at Allegra, diners are treated not just to a meal but to an immersive sensory sojourn.
Here lies the perfect place to indulge in the harmonious blend of nature and gastronomic brilliance, situated right in the heart of London city. The establishment prides itself on its commitment to sourcing local, promoting sustainability, and crafting original, flavor-rich dishes.
Address:Allegra, The Stratford, 20 International Way, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 1FD
Website:allegra-restaurant.com
13. Experience Brat at Climpson’s Arch in London Fields
Established in 2018, Brat, an exquisite restaurant rooted in Basque culinary culture, was founded by Tomos Parry. Quickly becoming a cherished spot, with its sibling establishment in London Fields living up to its reputation. This unique dining space nestles within the courtyard of an arch, home to the renowned Broadway Market coffee enterprise, Climpson & Sons. Under an open, yet sheltered setting warmed by heaters, guests can enjoy the alluring scent of fish being prepared on a charcoal grill. This outdoor spot welcomes groups varying from couples to six person gatherings, offering an ever-evolving menu. A strong contender amongst the varied array of petite plates designed for sharing is the grilled puffed bread served with succulent anchovies. For more substantial offerings, consider indulging in the sizzling hot whole turbot served alongside fragrant smoked potatoes. Remember to save room for dessert, with their unmissable San Sebastián-influenced burnt cheesecake, it's worth every calorie.
Location:Brat at Climpson’s Arch, 374 Helmsley Place, London E8 3SB
Online presence:bratrestaurant.com
14. Seabird, Southwark
Taking dining experiences to new heights, Seabird at the Hoxton in Southwark is a treasure located at the city's rooftop. The restaurant, situated on the 14th floor, features an entrancing deck area that showcases a panorama of the entire city. Adorned with palm trees and equipped with heating systems, Seabird also contains a versatile awning to tackle unpredictable weathers. Its rich and varied menu comprises appetizing oysters, bountiful seafood platters, and sumptuous Spanish and Portuguese cuisines, all of which recreate your best vacation memories. Consider booking a table during the twilight hours to catch hold of a breathtaking city sunset while sipping down a refreshing cocktail like a Caipirinha. Alternatively, indulge in their 'flying lunch' set menu that offers jamon croquetas, wood-fired market fish, seasonal greens and more, leading up to a desserts, all at a modest £29-per-head price tag.
Address: Seabird, 40 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 8NY
Website: seabirdlondon.com
15. Stanley’s Chelsea, Chelsea
Hidden down a side street just off the King’s Road, Stanley’s secret garden is a blooming escape for those in the know. It takes its inspiration from the English country garden with cascading plants and blossoms covering the courtyard restaurant and orangery. Olivia Burt – one of the finalists of 2019’sMasterchef: The Professionals – recently handed over the baton to Tomas Kolkus, but dishes continue to complement the outdoor setting perfectly. Start by smothering fresh sourdough in wild garlic butter before devouring starters, including Wye Valley asparagus and Hereford beef tartar. Meaty mains include onglet steak and west country spring lamb, but vegetarians are considered on the carefully curated menus.
Address:Stanley’s Chelsea, 151 Sydney Street, Chelsea, London, SW3 6NT
Website:stanleyschelsea.co.uk
16. The River Cafe, Hammersmith
It is a thrilling moment when the maître d' at the River Café shows you to one of the white-clothed tables on the terrace. Short of having a standing reservation throughout the summer, you'll just have to keep your fingers crossed. But when the stars align, it's a supreme treat. The number of Italian families sitting in the garden attests to the extraordinary authentic and inventive food coming out of Sian Owen’s open kitchen. Huge plates of wood-roasted turbot and salt-baked seabass with salsa verde fly out of the kitchen with precision, while smaller, zesty pasta and risotto bowls make for a great lighter option. Opt for a starter and a primi dish, and you’re more likely to have room for some of the restaurant’s homemade gelato – choose from a range of flavours including caramel, roasted almond, hazelnut and strawberry sorbet. Even if you live East, this, above all others, is the restaurant to go West for.
Address:The River Café, Thames Wharf, Rainville Road, London W6 9HA
Website:rivercafe.co.uk
17. The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea
This walled garden feels like a secret even though it's always packed. The space feels utterly English with climbing roses, ivy, wisteria and a stone water feature in the centre. Sit on the blue-and-white-striped cushions and order Whispering Angel rosé and plates of cured smoked salmond and asparagus with truffle hollandaise followed by steaks done to your exact order. Designed by master landscapers Ginkgo Gardens, there's a retractable roof over the terrace which means it's open all year round. Probably London's most magical garden restaurant, booking is a must well ahead of time during the warmer months.
Address:The Ivy Chelsea Garden, 195 -197 King's Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 5EQ
Website:theivychelseagarden.com
18. Tower Bridge's Coppa Club
Boasting an unrivalled riverside panorama featuring both the Shard and Tower Bridge, Coppa Club's terrace is indeed a diamond in the rough worth every bit of adulation it receives. Leave office tensions behind as you unwind with a refreshing spritz in either a cozy summer cabana or a snug winter igloo—depending on the season, of course. The food here is nothing to pass on either: try their irresistible sourdough pizzas crowned with rich 'nduja and creamy buffalo mozzarella or opt for their power-packed, nutritious salad loaded with quinoa and kale. On the side, try some light courgette fritti or enjoy the shared savoury taste of seared king prawns. Make sure you reserve your place at the terrace, as the enchanting view from the spacious interior through the broad glass windows may leave you yearning for more.
Address:Coppa Club, 3 Three Quays Walk, Lower Thames Street, London EC3R 6AH
Website:coppaclub.co.uk
19. The Orangery at Number Sixteen, South Kensington
Tucked behind the Firmdale Group's Number Sixteen hotel in South Kensington you'll find an English garden complete with mini-manicured hedges and a koi-filled pond. The Orangery restaurant is a toned-down version of the colourful quirky look the group's designer Kit Kemp is best known for (Ham Yard Hotel in Soho; The Whitby in New York). Tables and chairs are painted a pretty pastel green and giant terracotta pots are spilling with nasturtium. On the menu is smoked salmon and lemon sourdough toast, shaved courgette and fennel salad, and a range of appetisers sure to get the party started.
Address:The Orangery at Number Sixteen, 16 Sumner Place, South Kensington, London SW7 3EG
Website:firmdalehotels.com
20. Officina 00, Shoreditch
During the summer, Officina 00 moves its tables onto the streets of Shoreditch, with parasols and blankets on hand for the unpredictable British weather. Pasta is made daily on-site and paired with authentic Italian ingredients and unconventional cooking methods to create punchy statement dishes. To start, the creamy burrata is served on asparagus, while aubergine and nduja croquettes are drizzled with sticky honey. The staff recommend three main pasta dishes between two, and we particularly enjoyed the house favourite, occhi – pasta pockets filled with beef-brisket Genovese, sour-parsley pesto and aged provolone. For pudding, order the crunchy tiramisu, sprinkled with plenty of chocolate and orange zest and oozing Cointreau. The food is good, but this place is worth a visit if only for its refreshing Italian cocktails – each with a twist. Sip a 00 Spritz, twisted with Emakulele bitters and grapefruit, or for something a little stronger go for the zingy Limoncello Martini.
Address:Officina 00, 156 Old Street, Shoreditch, London EC1V 9BW
Website:officina00.co.uk
21. Quo Vadis: A Culinary Gem in Soho
Quo Vadis, an esteemed Soho establishment, flaunts a rich history dating back to 1926, giving its dining experience a seasoned touch. The restaurant's appeal has flourished further under the expertise of chef Jeremy Lee, who continually serves up fresh, exciting concoctions. On beautiful days, the rare privilege of dining at the few street-side tables is available. Quo Vadis' menu bursts with flavorful pastries, exceptionally fresh seafood dishes, and nostalgic revisits to traditional cuisine. Whether it's for a light meal or a coffee meeting, this venue's central Soho locale provides the perfect backdrop for urban gazing.
Location:Quo Vadis, 26-29 Dean Street, Soho, London W1D 3LL
Online Presence:quovadissoho.co.uk
22. La Famiglia, Chelsea
This is the go-to spot for every jolly Chelsea family celebration, the fail-safe best bet for candle-lit dates, the dream long weekend lunch, and the hottest ticket for supper when the awnings above the garden are opened up to the sky. Come in the evening, as early as you can, to get a table outside among the olive trees and pots of rosemary. The old-school Italian menu has barely changed since the restaurant opened more than 50 years ago but the spaghetti vongole and calamari are still just right. And the brilliantly retro pudding trolley (tiramisu, profiteroles, lemon tart, a decadent chocolate torte) puts many patisseries to shame.
Address:La Famiglia, 7 Langton Street, Chelsea, London SW10 0JL
Website:lafamiglia.co.uk
23. Mazi: A Hidden Gem in Notting Hill
Nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, Mazi offers a delightful deck adorned with lanterns and vinery that exudes a clandestine, serene aura. The place buzzes with an eclectic blend of patrons - from fashion models savouring feather-light taramasalata with their photographer beaus, to Greek matriarchs and their stylishly-attired offspring reveling in the quintessential European nightlife. The menu is a shared feast featuring sophisticated treats like succulent grilled octopus, luscious prawn risotto and sweet, roasted tomatoes that master the art of culinary simplicity, transforming staple Mediterranean ingredients into a memorable dining experience.
Location:Mazi, 12-14 Hillgate Street, Notting Hill, London W8 7SR
Official Site:mazi.co.uk
24. Smokestak, Shoreditch
Wood-smoked and barbecued meat is very much the thing here, and with queues at the door, it’s a proven success. David Carter, founder and chef of Smokestak and nearby Manteca, is responsible for the meat-filled menu and open-kitchen cooking techniques. The crispy ox cheek served with an anchovy mayo to start is one of the highlights – soft, petite, and jam-packed with flavour. For mains, opt for the succulent charred pork belly rib with pickled cucumber and the oak-smoked beef brisket with mustard barbecue. Meats are served on a metal tray with dipping sauces, perfect for sharing. We recommend the refreshing pickled red cabbage and mint slaw and a potato dish of either skin-on chips with aioli for dipping, or the smoked jacket potato which has been deconstructed and jam-packed with mustard rarebit flavours. If you’ve room for pudding, the warm sticky toffee pudding topped with clotted cream gelato is a winner. Diners can now lap up the sun on the south-facing terrace which is heated, lit, and covered should the evening turn a little cooler.
Address:Smokestak, 35 Sclater Street, London E1 6LB
Website:smokestak.co.uk
25. The Farrier, Camden
Camden Market’s first-ever pub, The Farrier is one of several openings hoping to reinvigorate thisnorth London space. In one corner of the yard, the gastropub is headed up by Ash Finch, a former chef at The Langham and Wild Honey (as well as a brief stint atNoma), who trained under Marcus Wareing and Alain Ducasse and is now turning his attention to seasonal British produce served in a historic setting. Inside, the restaurant embraces its heritage as Grade II-listed former stables, with exposed brickwork and cast-iron features lit by plenty of candles.
The Farrier is a sensational London dining destination, nestled amidst a towering wall of wines carefully sourced from small scale, eco-conscious producers far and wide. A standout was the Kakhuri No 8 amber nectar hailing from the Teliani Valley in Georgia, renowned for its unique natural, organic, skin-contact orange wine with deep dry notes. In the heart of the space, warming fire pits sit interspersed among outdoor tables, offering a cozy and inviting courtyard atmosphere. Chef Finch, bearing an impressive Michelin background, showcases a delightful range of wholesome and hearty dishes exquisitely elevated by his expert touch.
A tantalising starter features fresh spring baby vegetables luxuriously bathing in a unique smoked-honey and dill broth accompanied by the zesty zing of burnt-lemon cream and beautiful edible floral accents. Meanwhile, the lamb dish presents a wonderful blend of sweet peas, hand-picked meadowsweet and wild garlic, promising a burst of natural, fresh flavours. Sweet endings come in the form of an airy chocolate mousse complemented by the refreshing tanginess of lemon sorbet, and a delightful toffee cake garnished with crunchy popcorn crumbs that strikes the perfect sweet-salty balance.
Both the history of the building and its contemporary redesign create an atmospheric backdrop to the rustic menu and commitment to sustainability, making The Farrier a must-visit. Discover why London is buzzing about The Farrier as a must-visit gastronomic locale for 2023.
Location:The Farrier, Camden Stables Market, 87/88 North Yard, Chalk Farm, London NW1 8AH
Website:thefarriercamden.com
26. The Garden Room at The Lanesborough, Hyde Park Corner
This space is hidden below ground through the many weaving, opulent hallways ofThe Lanesborough hotel – luckily there’s no chance of getting lost as a doorman in a top hat will escort you. The covered terrace bar is decked out with plush leather chairs and low candle-lit wooden tables, walls are shrouded in the foliage of bromeliads and ferns. Bag a spot by the fireplace for the warmest seat in the house. There are plenty of whiskies and wines on the menu, along with hand-crafted cocktails. When it comes to food, everything’s made to share – try the crispy squid and chargrilled flatbread, and dive into a Wagyu burger. Hotel guests, Knightsbridge locals, and those in the know make up the crowd here – it’s smart and under the radar.
Address:The Garden Room at The Lanesborough, Duke of Wellington Place, London SW1X 7TA
Website:oetkercollection.com
27. Parrillan: A Slice of Spain in King's Cross
Experience the culinary ambience of a Spanish vacation, right at Parrillan in King's Cross. This coveted eatery, brought to us by the masterminds behind Barrafina, sets the perfect mood with tantalising tapas, effervescent wines, and a sunlit terrace where the Spanish sun seems to dwell. At the heart of your dining experience sits a charcoal parrilla, inviting you to cook your sumptuous prawns, prime Iberico pork or tuna, enhancing the feasting adventure. On colder days, the rich, homely stews from their menu become comfort food at its finest. The cherry on top? The delightfully chargrilled pineapple dessert, which remains a crowd favourite regardless of the season.
Between 2018 and 2022, London witnessed a 24% increase in Spanish eateries, with Parrillan setting the bar high. Furthermore, the restaurant's setting in the historic Coal Drops Yard location adds to its immense popularity.
Locale: Parrillan, Coal Drops Yard, Stable Street, London, N1C 4AB
Put Parrillan on Your Radar: parrillan.co.uk.
28. The Iconic Bentley’s Oyster Bar in the Heart of Mayfair
For more than a century, Bentley's Oyster Bar has been a staple in Mayfair, demonstrating an impressive ability to adapt and evolve over the years. Noted celebrity chef Richard Corrigan has been steering this historic eatery, acclaimed as one of the oldest oyster bars in London, for the past decade and a half. You can enjoy its sheltered, cozy outdoor dining space while indulging in succulent oysters, whether native, rock or delicately dressed, alongside mouth-watering grilled fish, and various steak cuts sourced from around the British and Irish Isles. The view along Swallow Street is mesmerizing, and no visit to Bentley’s would be complete without trying their renowned soda bread.
With Bentley's historic longevity in the restaurant business, it's no surprise that the eatery stands out among its contemporaries. Featuring some of Corrigan’s signature dishes, Bentley's represents a fusion of old-world elegance and the fresh catch from sea-to-plate ethos, an experience reminiscent of classic British and Irish cuisine yet entirely unique.
Address: Bentley’s Oyster Bar, 11-15 Swallow Street, London W1B 4DG
Website:bentleys.org
29. The Laundry
The outdoor terrace at The Laundry in Brixton is a welcome oasis of calm amongst the hustle and bustle that is Brixton. The Laundry is tucked away next to Brixton Village in a beautiful historic building that the team has done a fantastic job maintaining. Outside tables offer plenty of comfy corners where guests can lounge against pillows and catch up over a cocktail, from which diners have many intriguing choices. I went with the Cucumber Margarita, a refreshing cocktail for a balmy summer evening. Plates of seasonal tomatoes arrive paired with a zingy yuzu vinaigrette and creamy burrata with peas and broad beans topped with charred buckwheat. And while my bavette with fries was satisfying, the real star was dessert, a Coupe Dänemark with rich vanilla ice cream, cloud-like whipped cream and a lovely sweet crunch from the afghan honeycomb.
Address: The Laundry, 374 Coldharbour Lane, London SW9 8PL
Website: thelaundrybrixton.com
30. Toklas, Temple
Outdoor dining in London is often tainted by the interminable traffic which inevitably passes your table. Not so at Toklas. Raised metres above the street, cars vanish into oblivion and the view of the facades of beautiful period buildings greets you instead. It is so quiet and so calm, it seems impossible that you're so close to the Strand. As London falls away, the urban surroundings are replaced by flourishing potted plants and simple, yet stylish furniture. The side of the restaurant opens up entirely so even inside you experience the open air. The menu is inspired by the Mediterranean, with seafood heavily spotlighted – expect langoustines, Dover sole, and guinea fowl to make appearances on the weekly menu. The cocktails and puddings are not to be missed, thanks to their beautifully unusual flavour combinations that leave you feeling inspired.Lily Bonesso
Address:Toklas, 1 Surrey Street, Temple, London WC2R 2ND
Website:toklaslondon.com