27 of the best rooftop restaurants in London for dining in the sky

Despite its grey and drizzly reputation, London does get some brilliant weather from time to time. Okay, it’s not Barcelona or Faro, but what it lacks in consistency it makes up for in all-out surprise factor. When the weather heats up, we Londoners drop everything to go and soak up the rays. One of the best ways to enjoy a spot of sun is at one of the best rooftop restaurants in London. There's plenty of choice, from street food-style bars atop venues to fine dining in the clouds.

While these restaurants are excellent for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, most London rooftops would also work well for a more casual meal. We all know the feeling of finishing work on a Friday and rushing to somewhere up high for a drink and some food with your colleagues. It's one of the best ways to end the week. 

Our top priority is always the food, so you can expect only the best dishes at all of these options. But another important factor is the view, so this comes in a close second. Some of these restaurants are as romantic as it gets, while others are perfect places to go in a group. Often, restaurants like this double up as killer rooftop bars, perfect for sipping in the sky. There's so much choice that it was hard to boil down the best of the best, but we have.

There really is no better way to make the most of our all too fleeting warm weather than by dining on a rooftop. Ideal for amazing views and catching a tan, you’ll want to be far above the ground to enjoy the stretch of summer and London’s gorgeous views. From South Bank terraces to City high-rises, we’ve rounded up the must-visit rooftop restaurants with outdoor space in the capital for you to enjoy this year. And we’d love to hear from you too, if you have a secret spot to share with other readers.

The best rooftop restaurants in central London

Let's start with the heart of London. Here you'll find a huge range of rooftop restaurants. From hotels to towers, central London has it all when it comes to dining in the sky. 

Yasmin, Soho

What: One of the most attractive restaurants in Soho, Yasmin offers panoramic views over the city that deserve to be appreciated over fine Turkish fare and exceptional cocktails. It’s a criminally underappreciated sun trap for lazy lunches, late-night dining, and sundown drinks. Taking cues from the flavours of Istanbul, the menus here are for sharing. Picture Islak burgers, za’atar spiced mushroom skewers and sumac smoked duck, all topped off with almond halva cheesecake.
Where: 1 Warwick Street, W1B 5LR
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Yasmin
Book now: Yasmin

1864 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen, Oxford Street

What: Offering the chance to dine high above London’s busy Oxford Street, 1864 Rooftop Bar & Kitchen comes armed with wonderful sharing menus, cocktails and greenhouse-style private booths. The easy-going menu is packed with small plates, summery salads, snacks and nibbles, with dishes like whipped feta with green olives and sun-dried tomato salsa served with focaccia, oyster mushroom shawarma, and courgette fritti with jalapeno mayonnaise.
Where: 6th Floor, John Lewis, 300 Oxford Street, WC1 1DX
Booking for a special occasion? Discover venue hire options at 1864 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen
Book now: 1864 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen

Riviera, Mayfair

What: It may not be an alfresco spot, but Riviera’s dining room comes with an impossibly breezy Mediterranean feel. Plus, given the state of the British weather, we’d quite happily pick this one for the certainty it brings. Naturally, menus take cues from sunnier Riviera shores, offering up calamari provencale, oyster platters, and burrata with datterini tomatoes and taggiasca olives. To drink, expect indulgent, often bougie creations like cognac Espresso Martinis, alongside wines from every major region in France.
Where: 23 St James's Street, SW1A 1HA
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Riviera
Book now: Riviera

OXO Tower Restaurant, South Bank

What: This South Bank institution has been serving up some of the best views in the capital for 30 years, and it still pulls in a loyal crowd looking to see those vistas for themselves. It doesn't get much better than a seat on OXO Tower Restaurant's metres-long balcony, although even indoors, the restaurant's huge glass windows ensure everyone gets to enjoy those skyline views. Seasonal British menus go big on quality, fresh produce, from a tomato, peach and goat's cheese salad, to halibut with coco beans and roast chicken butter sauce. 
Where: Barge House Street, SE1 9PH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at OXO Tower
Book now: OXO Tower Restaurant

Shanghai Me, Mayfair

What: The terrace area at Shanghai Me might be on the modest side, but the views certainly aren't. Here, on the 28th floor of the London Hilton Park Lane, you’ll be looking out across the sprawling Hyde Park grounds, all the while dining on beautiful pan-Asian plates and what we think is some of the best dim sum in London (don't miss the crispy prawn cheung fun). Inside, it’s an Art Deco haven, harking back to the nostalgic charm of 1930s Shanghai.
Where: 28th Floor, London Hilton on Park Lane, 22 Park Lane, W1K 1BE
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Shanghai Me
Book now: Shanghai Me

Los Mochis, City of London

What: Set on the ninth floor with some of the most astounding panoramic views - from St Paul’s to the Shard - Los Mochis' rooftop restaurant is one of the most popular spots in the City. The concept is a bold fusion: Japanese precision meets Mexican vibrancy, reflected in the decor and menu, which offers a parade of sushi, grilled skewers, crudo, and tacos, paired with a fantastic cocktail list and lush planting. It’s ideal for celebrating, treating your mates, and generally having a brilliant time.
Where: 9th Floor, 100 Liverpool Street, EC2M 2AT
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Los Mochis London City
Book now: Los Mochis London City

Rucola at The Conduit, Covent Garden

What: This chic central London members’ club has a lovely rooftop terrace restaurant that’s open to the public. It really is a hidden gem. A seasonal Italian menu perfectly matches the setting, where smart wooden tables and rattan furniture meet a bevvy of potted plants and views over Covent Garden. Expect plant-led plates and quality, sustainably sourced ingredients at every turn, from handmade pasta to beautifully fluffy focaccia.
Where: 6 Langley Street, WC2H 9JA
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at The Conduit
Book now: Rucola at The Conduit

SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower, City 

What: From the moment the lightning-quick glass elevator whisks you up to the 38th floor of Heron Tower, you know you can expect great views of the capital from SUSHISAMBA. Once inside, you can’t miss the incredible rooftop terrace or the covens of young City types splashing serious amounts of cash at the bar. With a direct view of The Gherkin and The Shard off in the distance, nibble on dishes from the restaurant’s Japanese-Latino inspired cuisine, such as Kobe gyoza or tuna belly nigiri.
Where: 110 Bishopsgate (38-39th floor), EC2N 4AY
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower
Book now: SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower

Kioku by Endo, Westminster

What: Endo Kazutoshi is fast becoming one of London’s most bankable chefs. It’s no wonder he was top of the list when Raffles at The OWO started looking for a star to take over it’s stupendous rooftop space, and Kioku by Endo delivers with faultless, technical Japanese cooking, with a bit of sunny Mediterranean influence for good measure. The rooftop has some incredible views of London too; you can even dine in the turret of the hotel - surely one of London’s most unique restaurant tables.
Where: 57 Whitehall, SW1A 2BX
Book now: Kioku by Endo

The Devonshire, Soho

What: Name a more iconic location for pints in the sunshine - we dare you. This Soho favourite is probably best known for the swathes of punters you’ll find standing streetside, but it’s also home to one of the best roof terrace restaurants in the capital. The pub terrace feel adds to the appeal, but we’re dead set on orders of day boat fish, buttery creel-caught langoustines, and beautiful cuts of Scottish dry-aged beef cooked over fire. Plan for this one early! Years after opening its still busy as ever. Good Guinness in London will do that.
Where: 17 Denman Street, W1D 7HW
Book now: The Devonshire

Market Halls Victoria

What: Market Halls fabulous rooftop space opens up every summer so you can sun yourself and enjoy great food and drink whilst you wait for your delayed train at the station. Thankfully, there’s lots to keep you going here - Black Bear Burger, Butchies fried chicken, DF Tacos and Roti King offshoot Gopal’s Corner, among others, plus a new summer spritz menu and room for a whopping 220 guests. If the rain shows up, there’s even a retractable roof.
Where: 191 Terminus Place, SW1E 5NE
Book now: Market Halls Victoria

Smiths of Smithfield, Farringdon

What: Things get smarter the higher up you go at Farringdon's Smiths of Smithfield. Head straight to the top floor of the Grade II-listed building for wonderful views of The City and the option to dine outside on the restaurant's wonderful terrace. Choose from a variety of punchy British dishes with prime cuts of meat coming from local markets.
Where: 67-77 Charterhouse Street, EC1M 6HJ
Book now: Smith's of Smithfield

The best rooftop restaurants in north London

Upmarket north London is home to a well-heeled crowd who know a good thing when they see one. To meet the demands of its residents, north London’s best rooftop restaurants are the perfect balance of chic and comfortable.

The Lighterman, King's Cross

What: You can’t miss The Lighterman’s busy terrace as you walk into Coal Drops Yard, and there’s a reason it’s always heaving - the restaurant has the perfect mix of great, accessible food and scene-stealing location. Gaze out over the comings and goings of the Coal Drops Yard plaza as you get stuck into British classics and an excellent drinks list. We’re talking ‘steak on chips’ beef tartare, charred asparagus with parmesan hollandaise, grilled king prawns with garlic and lime, and sunny flatbread plates topped with tasty, delicious things.
Where: 3 Granary Square, N1C 4BH
Book now: The Lighterman

Skylark Roof Garden, Paddington

What: This beachy rooftop restaurant and bar is a go-to for Paddingtonites. Summer here brings Mediterranean platters, breezy coastal plates, and holiday-ready cocktails that are sure to brighten any meal. The views are just as incredible, looking out over the vast expanse of Hyde Park and Notting Hill from a gorgeous perch above Little Venice. Food, meanwhile, stretches from fresh watermelon and feta salads, to beef and crispy courgette burgers with classic soft whip self-serve ice creams to top it all off.
Where: 10th Floor, 4 Kingdom Street, W2 6BD
Book now: Skylark Roof Garden

The best rooftop restaurants in east London

There are lots of things east London is famous for, but we'd argue rooftop restaurants are one of them. Shoreditch, Hackney and the like all have their fair share, as well as Canary Wharf's more corporate options.

STK Rooftop Steakhouse & Bar, Stratford

What: Looking for a special occasion rooftop restaurant? That’s STK’s bread and butter: glittering, high-energy dining with impeccable views across east London. Set on the 18th floor, sunsets here are impressive, and as you dine on premium steaks, braised short rib, and lobster fried rice. Looking for more energy? Simply check out STK’s ‘Vibe Brunch’ offering, complete with a party atmosphere and bottomless drinks fit for any celebration.
Where: 40 Celebration Avenue, E20 1DB
Book now: STK Rooftop Steakhouse & Bar

Café Mission, Shoreditch

What: We love Café Mission’s clean girl vibe - perhaps that’s no coincidence as it sits right above a Spitalfields yoga and movement studio. As well as a spacious inside area, you can also walk out onto the terrace and lounge under a parasol with a healthy salad and a drink. Cafe Mission does a cracking weekend brunch as well - if you’re in the area, it’s well worth a visit.
Where: 7-9 Fashion Street, E1 6PX
Booking for a special occasion? Discover event hire options at Cafe Mission
Book now: Café Mission

Bokan, Canary Wharf

What: Armed, not just with a spectacular restaurant, but with a bar, plus a beautiful al fresco terrace to match, Bokan really is the whole package. While you can’t book the terrace tables, the team welcomes walk-ins for both food and drinks on its 39th floor. Overlooking Canary Wharf, with the Shard in the background, guests can expect classic European menus with refreshing starters, crowd-pleasing mains, and cocktails inspired by the history of its Docklands setting.
Where: Novotel Canary Wharf, 40 Marsh Wall, E14 9TP
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Bokan
Book now: Bokan

The Culpeper, Whitechapel

What: The Culpeper is a stripped-back, all-day venue dealing in patriotic grub with some Gallic overtones. The real gem of this East London joint, however, is its rooftop, which houses a fully-fledged vegetable farm and botanical garden, which supplies ingredients for the kitchen. With a small farm in Deptford, we’d say this is the city version of farm-to-fork (urban garden to gastro cooking, if you will), where guests sit among fruit trees, herb plots, strawberries and woodruff. On the menu? Sea bass crudo with ajo blanco and pickled kumquat, octopus with romesco, and smoked Basque cheese cake with Yorkshire rhubarb. 
Where: 40 Commercial Street, E1 6LP
Book now: The Culpeper

The best rooftop restaurants in south London

Once you combine the South Bank and Peckham, your cup runneth over in the rooftop restaurant department in south London. Lots of these are set on the roofs of clubs, so be sure to pack your dancing shoes. 

JOIA Rooftop, Battersea

What: JOIA’s gorgeous views stand out whether you’re in the double-height bar, the beautiful Art Deco dining room, or up on the JOIA Rooftop, enjoying mesmerising views of London. Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, it’s a top one for Iberico jamon croquettes, Portuguese skewers, brioche rolls stuffed with octopus and black aioli, and beautiful fresh salads. Cocktails are just as impressive, featuring yuzu and basil slushies, and a grapefruit and rosita miz with tequila and grapefruit.
Where: 1 Electric Boulevard, SW11 8BJ
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at art’otel Battersea Power Station
Book now: JOIA

OXO Tower Brasserie, South Bank 

What: High up on the eighth floor of the OXO Tower, this fashion-conscious, brasserie-style eyrie offers great views of the South Bank from its rooftop terrace. Here, among its convivial, easy-going surroundings, sun-seekers can indulge in a leisurely summer’s evening at OXO, complete with impressive seasonal set menus at a very affordable price. Expect an extra sparkle in the evening too, as the brasserie is known to be home to live jazz and mellow piano music at times.
Where: Barge House Street, SE1 9PH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover group and private dining options at OXO Tower
Book now: OXO Tower

No 32 The Old Town, Clapham

What: No 32 The Old Town is a great local to have in your pocket for chilled sunny days. Directly opposite Clapham Common, the cosy roof terrace is an ideal spot for weekend brunching with friends (there’s a bottomless deal too), family meals, and all-day dishes that stretch from burgers and Korean pork belly to superfood bowls. Did we mention brunch here runs till 4pm?
Where: 32 The Pavement, SW4 0JE
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at No 32 The Old Town
Book now: No 32 The Old Town

601 Queen’s Road, Wimbledon

What: This gorgeous, glassy restaurant on top of Centre Court (the shopping centre not the home of tennis) works wonderfully for sundown drinks and dinners at golden hour. Expect a lovely wrap-around terrace on the first floor, and plenty more seating beneath an impressive glass door. Brunch is an all-day affair, and you’ll find lovely globetrotting dishes bringing in classics from Thailand and the Mediterranean alongside classic British cooking.
Where: Centre Court Shopping Centre, Queen’s Road, SW19 8YE
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at 601 Queen’s Road
Book now: 601 Queen’s Road

Frank’s Cafe, Peckham

What: Frank’s Cafe is easily one of the most well-known rooftops in South London. It used to be one of Peckham’s best-kept secrets, but now the word is out. Sitting atop the music, food and cultural hub that is Peckham Levels, Frank’s is only open during the summer months. Offering up brunch, small plates, beers, wines, cocktails and more, this is the ideal spot to watch the sunset with a group of friends, or date for that matter. Wind your way up the legendary pink staircase to make the most of Mike Davies’ fresh, thoughtful cooking.
Where: 95A Rye Lane, SE15 4ST
Book now: Frank’s Cafe

Forza Wine, Peckham

What: Sat atop Market Peckham directly opposite Peckham Rye station, much like Frank’s, the secret haven that is Forza Wine is no longer an in-the-know deal. Shoot up to the top floor in the lift, and you'll arrive in what is basically a glass cuboid bar-cum-dining room, which leads out onto a glorious terrace area. Offering up snacky Italian crowd-pleasers, you can order the full menu here to share as a group, while the wine list is well worth exploring too, as the restaurant's name suggests.
Where: 133A Rye Lane, SE15 4BQ
Book now: Forza Wine

Seabird, Southwark

What: Seabird in The Hoxton lives up to the Insta hype, with picture-perfect interiors and some of the best cocktails in the city. Seafood is the calling card, offering up platters of the stuff alongside Iberian-style dishes like red mullet with salsa verde, and gambas al ajillo. Don't miss London's longest oyster menu here, too. Views from the rooftop tick off some of London’s best skyline features, like The Shard, and it's equipped with heaters and blankets for all-year enjoyment.
Where: 40 Blackfriars Road, SE1 8NY
Book now: Seabird 

The best rooftop restaurants in west London

Heading west, you'll still find plenty of choice, perhaps of a more boujie nature. The quality of food here is top-notch, with some options offering options worthy of a serious blow-out. 

Brasserie Constance, Fulham

What: While not technically a ‘rooftop’ in the truest sense, it’d be criminal to omit such an elite restaurant as Brasserie Constace. Set on the banks of the Thames and helmed by Adam Byatt of Trinity fame, Brasserie Constance serves up modern British cooking with the finesse that we've come to expect from one of London's most respected chefs. The terrace takes up the length of the restaurant, sheltered from the elements but ever elegant, looking across to the south bank.
Where: Level 1, Fulham Pier, Stevenage Road, SW6 6HH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Brasserie Constance
Book now: Brasserie Constance

The Broadcaster, White City

What: If you find yourself out west and in need of a spot of food or a cocktail, head over to the old BBC Television Centre building at White City. The Broadcaster is the aptly-named new bar and restaurant in residence, and has taken over multiple floors of the old building, including a spacious rooftop where you can catch some rays in the summer, and gaze over the London skyline with a glass of something in hand. The Broadcaster is a pretty versatile venue all-in-all - you'll find rooftop yoga, barbecues and all sorts of other events happening up here throughout the year. 
Where: 89 Wood Lane, W12 7FX
Book now: The Broadcaster

If you can’t get enough of eating outdoors, check out our full list of the best outdoor restaurants in London. That said, if you're more keen on the idea of getting just a few drinks in, we've got a guide for that too - just head over to take a peek at the very best rooftop bars in London to discover our favourite locations for sundown cocktails.