From rooftop terraces with skyline views to lush, tucked-away gardens, there’s no shortage of places to wine and dine under the sky.
Whether you’re chasing the sun or just trying to make the most of the city’s brief flirtation with heat, the combination of fresh air and good food serves as a reminder of just how vibrant London can be.
Here are six of the capital’s best outdoor restaurants to enjoy this summer.
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Joia Rooftop, Battersea
Perched atop the gleaming new Art’otel at Battersea Power Station, Joia Rooftop is a sun-drenched spot that delivers both on style and substance.
Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s Iberian-inspired plates — from seabass ceviche to Basque cheesecake — are matched only by panoramic views of the Thames.
It’s the kind of place where a lunch booking seamlessly turns into sundown cocktails, especially when the DJs take over.
For more information or to book, visit the Joia website.
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Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury
A long-time favourite of Londoners and visiting influencers alike, Dalloway Terrace is a masterclass in atmosphere.
Tucked behind the Bloomsbury Hotel, the restaurant is known for its floral installations that change with the seasons. Summer means cascades of hydrangeas, the soft blush of peonies, the delicate fragrance of buttercup-yellow wild English roses and a menu of fresh, modern dishes.
Try the seafood-rich mariscada a la marinera or the artichoke risotto — they’re as elegant as the setting.
For more information or to book, visit the Dalloway Terrace website.
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The Ivy Tower Bridge
For city views and reliable glamour, The Ivy’s Tower Bridge location is hard to beat.
Its expansive riverside terrace looks straight onto one of London’s most iconic landmarks, making it a go-to for long lunches and sunset dinners.
The all-day menu covers everything from classic shepherd’s pie to crab and avocado tian, with a cocktail list that begs to be explored.
For more information or to book, visit The Ivy Collection website.
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The Standard Rooftop, King’s Cross
Edgy and elevated — in more ways than one — The Standard’s rooftop bar and restaurant brings a little Brooklyn cool to King’s Cross.
With panoramic views of the city, a food truck serving freshly baked pizza and a wide selection of cocktails, it’s the place to be once golden hour hits.
For more information or to book, visit The Standard Hotels website.
Ambassadors Clubhouse, Mayfair
Tucked behind Grosvenor Square, Ambassadors Clubhouse is a new addition to Mayfair’s elite dining scene.
Its hidden courtyard garden offers an unexpectedly relaxed backdrop for a Punjabi-inspired menu that includes Ranjit Shahi lobster curry and dhungar paneer tikka masala.
With lantern-lit tables and a low-key luxury vibe, it’s a calm oasis in the heart of the West End.
For more information or to book, visit the Ambassadors Clubhouse website.
Pergola Brixton
This rooftop venue has an urban garden party vibe and features an eclectic line-up of food vendors, tropical foliage, communal benches and a laid-back soundtrack that builds into weekend DJ sets.
Perfect for after-work drinks or casual catchups, it’s where street food meets sky-high energy. Grab a mango margarita, order a pulled pork taco and let the evening unfold.
For more information or to book, visit the Pergola Brixton website.
Feature image credit: Rebecca Hope Photography
