30 of the best outdoor restaurants in London with terraces perfect for al fresco dining

Looking for the best outdoor restaurants in London? On the rare occasions that the sun appears in the sky above London and decides to grace us with its warm embrace, it's important to soak up all the vitamin D you can get. Fortunately, there are plenty of al fresco spaces for outdoor dining in London, from terraces and rooftops to chairs plonked on pavements. In fact, one might even say that we're quite spoilt for choice in the capital given the reputation London has for being grey and rather lukewarm for 11 months a year.

If we can get real for a moment, we aren't blessed with the best weather in the world. For most of the calendar year Londoners are a stoic lot, and we still love to dine outside - sometimes just to stick it to the biting wind and drizzle. This is where London's real al fresco champs separate themselves - you need blankets, awnings, windbreakers, heaters to protect from the elements. Any old restaurant can get it right when it's 30 degrees with a gentle breeze, but can you get the job done on a wet and windy evening in Peckham?

That's why we've scoured the capital for a wide array of outdoor restaurants and dining spaces. Some are firmly in the summer sun-trap sector. Others are well equipped to battle the British weather all year round, so you can hang out under cover and well heated, with a summery cocktail in hand, when the British weather inevitably gives up on us without warning.

So, whether it’s in rain or shine, if you want something more appealing than a chair on the pavement, then our pick of the best al fresco restaurants has you covered. From hidden courtyards to rooftop vistas, you’ll find a ton of great restaurants with outside seating in London right here.

Best outdoor restaurants in central London

If you’re just visiting the capital, or meeting friends from all corners of the city, you might want to find a nice outdoor restaurant in central London. Luckily, the odds here are in your favour as we happen to think that across areas like Soho, Fitzrovia and Mayfair there are some of the top terrace spots to be found in the whole of London. Enjoy!

Kapara, Soho

What: Situated in the historic heart of Soho, Chef Eran Tibi’s Eastern Mediterranean Kapara boasts a large heated and covered terrace, with gorgeous white pavestones, pastel-hued seating and plush cushions. Dishes here are inspired by a vibrant fusion of Eastern Mediterranean flavours, so you can be sure to try something creative here. Think miso roasted aubergine with date tahini, pomegranate and herbs, and braised lamb houmous with saffron apricots.
Where: James Court, Manette Street, W1D 4AL
Book now: Kapara

The Maine, Mayfair

What: Certainly one of London’s swankiest outdoor restaurants, The Maine in Mayfair deals in New England classics and global please-all plates. Think generously stuffed lobster rolls, crispy fish tacos and bowls of gravy-covered poutine. While the food offers its own allure, the real draw is the luxuriously designed surrounds. A fringed, striped awning covers smartly laid tables that have been surrounded by lush foliage, a clever combination that transports you to another time entirely. The sweet staff are dressed to play the part too in white jackets and bowties. Our advice? Go for a cocktail (or two), a couple of sharing plates and a few hours of people watching.
Where: 20 Hanover Square, W1S 1JY
Book now: The Maine Mayfair

Yasmin, Soho 

What: A fairly recent addition to London's dining scene, Yasmin is a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant and bar in central Soho with a killer roof terrace up top. Candy stripe awnings provide the perfect amount of shade during the summer months, while beautiful parquet paving, cushion-clad seating and plants aplenty provide a comfortable setting for cocktails, sharing plates and fabulous views. Expect this one to book up fast when the sun hits... 
Where: 1 Warwick Street, W1B 5LR 
Book now: Yasmin Soho

The Orangery at Number Sixteen Hotel, South Kensington

What: Perfect for drinks or intimate dinners, the Orangery and Garden at Number Sixteen is an oasis of calm, set away from the honks of buses and taxis in South Kensington. The menu is very accessible with plenty of likeable British and European hits (courtesy of executive chef Joe Fox), but it’s the beautiful tree-filled garden that most people come for.
Where: 16 Sumner Place, SW7 3EG
Book now: The Orangery at Number Sixteen Hotel

Toklas, Temple

What: Toklas has won a little legion of admirers for its ultra-minimal cooking and incredible breads and pastries. Now that the 3000 square foot terrace is open on Surrey Street, we expect it'll collect a few more fans. Primary colours abound in this pleasant space, which has room for around 100 diners on a nice evening, as well as extra space for post-work drinkers. 
Where: 1 Surrey Street, WC2R 2ND
Book now: Toklas

The Brush Grand Cafe, Hoxton

What: Nestled on the ground floor of art’otel London Hoxton, The Brush Grand Cafe’s 70-seater terrace is one of Hoxton’s best secrets for summer dining. The year-round fixture transforms from a cosy winter chalet into a sun-soaked haven during the balmy months, serving delicious cocktails, seasonal European dishes and with a live DJ on the decks at weekends. There’s a good selection of nibbles and starters if you’re after something light to pair with an aperitif, although we’d recommend a few of its flatbreads to share. The gruyère, bacon and caramelised onions is next level!
Where: 84-86 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 3JL
Book now: The Brush Grand Cafe

Bala Baya, Southwark

What: One of London’s best Middle Eastern restaurants, Bala Baya sits under the Old Union Arches in Southwark and boasts a lovely, covered terrace that’s all but hidden in plain sight. Course, the dishes here will whisk you away to sunnier climes regardless, from puffy flatbreads for dipping in blackened aubergine and tahini dip, to prawn baklava with lime cream and pistachios.
Where: Arch 25, 229 Union Street, SE1 OLR
Book now: Bala Baya

Lasdun, South Bank

What: After many long years of waiting, South Bank finally has a restaurant we can crow about in Lasdun - a gorgeous, slick British restaurant in the National Theatre. Now this wonderful restaurant has a terrace too, so you can soak up the South Bank sun with a menu of cracking buns - a Dorset crab and mayonnaise, or treacle-cured Tamworth ham and Lincolnshire Poacher, for example - alongside sparkling sips courtesy of Nyetimber.
Where: National Theatre, Upper Ground, SE1 9PX
Book now: Lasdun

Jurema Terrace at The Mandrake, Fitzrovia

What: When sitting out on this serene, partially covered terrace, it’s easy to forget that you are mere moments away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street. Boasting walls covered in foliage and a relaxed vibe, Jurema is a great spot for post-work drinks, serving up herbaceous cocktails and a concise menu of tacos and nibbles, followed by refreshing sorbet for dessert.
Where: 20-21 Newman Street, W1T 1PG
Book now: Jurema Terrace at The Mandrake

Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill, Mayfair

What: One of the buzziest outdoor dining spaces in the capital, the terrace at Richard Corrigan’s Bentley’s is a top choice for discerning Londoners looking to enjoy an al fresco atmosphere. The restaurant’s full menu is available outdoors, meaning you can enjoy the the sea-faring likes of lobster spaghetti or Dover sole (with an additional side of skinny chips).
Where: 11-15 Swallow Street, W1B 4DG
Book now: Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill

Best outdoor restaurants in north London

There is a wealth of really good outdoor restaurants in north London which cater to this neighbourhood’s ritzy crowd. Clustered around King’s Cross and Islington, expect plush soft furnishings and modern menus from this cool crowd.

Bellanger, Islington

What: Bellanger's grand, French-inspired interiors extend to its summery terrace, which boasts red and white zig-zag chairs, yellow striped tablecloths and big red awnings. You can't miss it if you're walking past! Diners can enjoy classic French fare here while overlooking Islington Green, from confit of duck to aubergine gratin. 
Where: 9 Islington Green, N1 2XH
Book now: Bellanger

The Lighterman, King's Cross

What: Found on bustling Granary Square, The Lighterman’s outdoor terrace is often packed to the rafters on nice days, so make sure to get there early. As well as the enviable outdoor space, crowds are drawn in by the seasonal cocktails and impressive wines. On the food front, expect flatbreads, sharing boards and mains from a wood-fired grill.
Where: 3 Granary Square, N1C 4BH
Book now: The Lighterman

Best outdoor restaurants in east London

Known for its trendy crowd and artsy vibe, it’s only natural that east London would be home to some buzzy outdoor terraces. From Roe's wraparound terrace overlooking the water, to Cinnamon Kitchen's colourful open courtyard, east London has an outdoor restaurant for every occasion.

Roe, Canary Wharf

What: Roe’s wraparound terrace overlooking the South Dock Canal is open from breakfast through to dinner, offering city workers a consistently delicious option for when the weather plays ball. Roe champions ultra sustainable, low-waste cooking via bold, interpretative dishes, and the cooking is always excellent. Try the cuttlefish fried toasts with pork skin, its signature ‘blooming’ onion, and any of the flatbreads.
Where: 5 Park Drive, Wood Wharf, E14 9GG
Book now: Roe

SUSHISAMBA, City of London

What: SUSHISAMBA'S Nikkei sharers have become a staple of London life - if you’re London-based get ready to hear the question, ‘have you been to SUSHISAMBA?’ at least once a year. Perhaps even better than the cracking food are the literal jaw-dropping views - SUSHISAMBA still boasts one of the highest dining terraces in Europe, on the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower.
Where: 110 Bishopsgate (38-39th floor), EC2N 4AY
Book now: SUSHISAMBA

Rochelle Canteen, Shoreditch

What: Margot Henderson’s iconic Shoreditch institution used to have to shift everyone’s bookings when it started raining - now they have covers and heaters, so you can feast on rustic British and Mediterranean cooking all year round. One of London’s essential restaurants.
Where: 16 Playground Gardens, E2 7FA
Book now: Rochelle Canteen

Crate Brewery, Hackney

What: Crate has made a name for itself on two simple pillars - seriously good craft ale and thin-crust pizza, both made in-house from scratch. The funky, post-industrial canal-side set-up is very Hackney - suntrap al fresco tables are at a premium here but if you’re just stopping for a pint and a slice you can likely find a sunny spot somewhere along the towpath.
Where: Unit 7 White Building, E9 5EN
Book now: Crate Brewery

Aviary, Moorgate

What: Soak up the sun and some stellar views with an Aperol Spritz in hand at this central City rooftop bar. Aviary Rooftop & Bar attracts a well-heeled crowd thanks to its glam atmosphere, unrivalled location and elegant a la carte menu, and is just as suited to a post-work drink as it is a celebration with mates. 
Where: 22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX
Book now: Aviary

Luca, Farringdon

What: Luca has cemented its place among London’s very best Italian restaurants - no mean feat given the standard these days - but it also deserves a place among the city’s best outdoor spaces too. The cobblestone courtyard, looming trees and exposed brick are positively Mediterranean - a world away from the hustle and bustle of Farringdon outside. Be warned, this space can be hired on a private basis, so it's always best to book ahead if you want to guarantee an outdoor table. 
Where: 88 St John Street, EC1M 4EH
Book now: Luca

COYA Angel Court, City of London

What: Escape the buzz of the city with COYA’s Peruvian inspired terrace at the restaurant’s Angel Court site. This cool, tranquil space makes a lovely spot to while away a few hours, while enjoying the popular small plates which feature modern twists on South American classic combinations. If you’re doing things properly there are pisco sours to enjoy too, don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Where: 31-33 Throgmorton Street, EC2N 2AT
Book now: COYA Angel Court

Cinnamon Kitchen City, City of London

What: Another gem in chef Vivek Singh's ever-expanding portfolio, the City branch of his Cinnamon Kitchen brand is blessed with outdoor decking. Weather-proof, thanks to its covered courtyard, the space is ideal for lunch or dinner. Tuck into a menu of tempting Indian dishes, including the likes of tandoori chicken breast with fennel and coriander, or perhaps a mutton curry served with pilau rice. Kulfi with a honeycomb crumble or the sorbet of the day are a dreamy end to an al fresco meal. 
Where: 9 Devonshire Square, EC2M 4YL
Book now: Cinnamon Kitchen City

Best outdoor restaurants in south London

The south hasn't always been London's most fashionable quadrant, but a few bougie spots in Southwark, Clapham, Balham and the likes are dragging Londoners south of the river, not to mention to the al fresco fun of Bermondsey and Borough Market. 

Seabird, Southwark

What: Blessed with #InstaGoals interiors, Seabird is found at the very tip top of The Hoxton hotel in Southwark. Leave any preconceptions you have about hotel restaurants at the door and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The frequently tweaked menu includes flavours of Portugal and smoky cuts of chargrilled meats, as well as seafood platters and cracking cocktails. The terrace gets booked up, so make sure to plan ahead. Here you’ll find sofas, blankets and heaters all at the ready to make your meal a cosy and comfortable one.
Where: 40 Blackfriars Road, SE1 8NY
Book now: Seabird

The Garden Museum Cafe, Lambeth

What: A bit of a hidden gem, The Garden Museum Cafe is tucked away on the south side of Lambeth Bridge and offers a cool oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Glass walls on one side look out onto the old church courtyard at the centre which is now a tumbling mass of greenery, and a spot for outdoor tables. A short, regularly changing menu keeps things interesting. Think stuffed courgette flowers or duck rillettes.
Where: 5 Lambeth Palace Road, SE1 7LB
Book now: The Garden Museum Cafe

OMA, Borough

What: Greek-inspired OMA's covered terrace is the perfect place to soak up the buzz of Borough Market below, but within the cosy confines of a stylishly appointed space, featuring sage green banquets and rich wooden tables and chairs. Freshly made breads and indulgent dips are a must-try here, but you'll find plenty to entertain in the form of zingy crudo dishes, smoky grills and oozy plates of orzo.
Where: 4 Bedale Street, SE1 9AL1
Book now: OMA

The Apollo Arms, Clapham

What: Clapham's Apollo Arms strikes a lovely balance between lived-in rustic local and slick gastropub experience, and it also boasts a beautiful, foliage-laden pub garden in the back. Cocktails include a Lemongrass Fizz and a Cucumber and Chilli Margarita, both excellent summer beverages, while twinkling fairy lights and sprawling greenery make for a pretty magical setting come night time. 
Where: 13-19 Old Town, SW4 0JT
Book now: The Apollo Arms

The Laundry, Brixton

What: The Laundry in Brixton offers a fun menu of comfort food classics – think bavette with cafe de Paris butter, pulled pork croquettes and fry ups at brunch. The terrace space is large and generous, with plenty of tables for mixed groups of any size. There are umbrellas, heaters and blankets, and the friendly staff are on hand to ensure you’re cosy and comfortable throughout your visit even if the sun isn’t shining.
Where: 374 Coldharbour Lane, SW9 8PL
Book now: The Laundry

Trinity, Clapham

What: Michelin-starred Trinity is more than it appears - not only does it boast a fantastic casual restaurant upstairs, it also has a very relaxing terrace on the corner of Clapham Common. With space for 35 covers this fun, buzzy space is perfect for watching the comings and going of the Common. To help line your stomach there are small plates and salads, as well as the occasional barbecue on the go serving up fish and meat.
Where: 4 The Polygon, SW4 0JG
Book now: Trinity

Best outdoor restaurants in west London

There’s no denying the allure of west London. This high-end neighbourhood is home to some of the swankiest and swishest outdoor restaurants in London - not to mention some really, really good people watching.

Belvedere, Holland Park

What: We're huge fans of Belvedere, not just because of the exemplary cooking, but also because it's arguably one of the most beautiful restaurants in London. That photogenic quality stretches to Belvedere's outdoor terrace which overlooks the park itself - not a bad place to enjoy a crisp glass of Gavi and a bit of lobster. 
Where: Off Abbotsbury Road, Holland Park, W8 6LU
Book now: Belvedere

The Broadcaster, White City

What: Want to take your summer dining to new heights? Head over to The Broadcaster in White City, a relaxed restaurant and rooftop bar housed inside what used to be the BBC Television Centre. Carefully poured pints and comforting pub favourites pull a big crowd at the weekend, and the heated rooftop bar features two bars, relaxed lounge areas and even a private alfresco dining room if you'd like to make an occasion of it. 
Where: 89 Wood Lane, W12 7FX
Book now: The Broadcaster

Manicomio Chelsea

What: Bright, summery Italian cooking in a foliage-laden garden terrace in Chelsea - what’s not to love? Manicomio’s is well-known in Chelsea as reliably good and the menu has something for everyone, from homemade focaccia and excellent pasta dishes, all the way up to a hefty chicken Milanese and chargrilled yellowfin tuna. House signature cocktails are well-suited to al fresco feasting too.
Where: 85 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY
Book now: Manicomio Chelsea

The River Cafe Cafe, Hammersmith

What: The more casual sibling to Ruth Rogers' River Café offers a similar calibre of fine Italian cooking, but in a relaxed, cafe-style setting. Come summertime, expect the terrace out front to be fully booked, as Hammersmith locals seek to indulge in a lazy lunch or brunch overlooking the River Thames. Whether you're popping in for a coffee, a cocktail, or a full-blown meal, do order the house focaccia. It’s very good.
Where: Thames Wharf, Rainville Road, W6 9HA
Book now: The River Cafe Cafe

Looking for outdoor dining without the risk of the weather? We've rounded up the best heated terraces in London for dining in all conditions. Plus, there's a whole other world of options if you fancy a slap up alfresco brunch on the weekend - check out London's best outdoor brunches.