30 best riverside restaurants and bars in London

One of London's most iconic features is the River Thames; as the longest river in England, it winds its way through the city, cruising past many of London's famous landmarks, bridges, buildings, and, most importantly, appearing in the opening credits of EastEnders. Plus, it's home to some of the best riverside restaurants in London. Days out in London reap the benefits of the river with cruises helping tourists explore, museums explaining the history of the river and London's past, and impressive bridges ideally placed over it to offer the perfect tourist pictures of Big Ben and the London Eye.

Miles of riverside certainly make for a pretty view and it's not just tourists that flock to the Thames' banksides - some of the world's top chefs have found their sea legs along the river too, bringing the city some incredibly unique dining spots. There's nothing more relaxing than taking a break from fast-paced London life and dining by the river, especially in the warmer months on the multitude of outdoor terraces.

Whether you're looking for a celebratory meal or simple after-work drinks, there are plenty of places to turn your average dinner into a waterside gastronomical experience. Soak up the sunshine at some of London's oldest waterside pubs or enjoy afternoon tea in a contemporary setting while you watch luxury yachts bobbing on the water. 

There really is something magical about dining by the Thames. By day, watch boats and playful wildlife in the water, and by night - the water mirrors the glittering lights of the city's skyline. To honour this magic, we've created a guide to the best riverside dining in London, from central city spots to dining canal-side in Little Venice. So, it's time to wave goodbye to boring backdrops as you cast your sights on the silvery Thames. 'Water' you waiting for? Grab some friends and enjoy all that London's riverside dining scene has to offer. 

The best riverside restaurants in London

In the mood for some waterside dining? These fine establishments have you covered, from riverside terraces to restaurants housed in repurposed barges. Enjoy dinner with a view of the water at these beautiful spots. 

Swan London, South Bank

What: As far as riverside dining in London goes, the Swan has a pretty decent claim to fame with its views of both the Thames and St Paul's, and the added bonus of being super convenient for theatre-goers. It has a very reasonable 'River View' set menu alongside a normal a la carte, that is served daily and features easy-going modern British cooking, alongside a selection of Neal's Yard cheeses.
Where: 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT
Book now: Swan London

Bread Street Kitchen On The River, Limehouse

What: This Gordon Ramsay outpost in Limehouse - housed in a Grade-II listed riverside building - is forever packed when the sun is out, as the good folks of Limehouse and Bow make their way down to grab a table overlooking the Thames. The food is exactly what you expect - solid, gutsy British classics, with excellent signature cocktails to boot. You’re really here for the view, though, which is pretty spectacular.
Where: 44 Narrow Street, E14 8DP
Book now: Bread Street Kitchen On The River

BFI Riverfront Restaurant & Bar, South Bank

What: Next time you're heading down to South Bank's British Film Institute (BFI) grab a quick bite to eat at its in-house Riverfront Restaurant & Bar. Perfect for pre-theatre dining and post-film snacks, the restaurant serves easy-going sharing platters, small plates and seasonal salads. With views overlooking the Thames, the outdoor terrace enjoys the buzz of its riverside location - even better with an Aperol Spritz in hand.
Where: Belvedere Road, SE1 8XT
Book now: BFI Riverfront Restaurant & Bar

Brindisa Tapas, Richmond

What: Set right by the edge of the river, and blessed with al fresco seating, Brindisa Tapas’ Richmond site should 100% be on your riverside dining list. Expect plenty of Spanish classics from jamon croquetas to gildas, alongside more interesting plates like slow-cooked lentils with chorizo and grilled hispi cabbage with wild mushrooms and almond cream. Bringing the pooch along? Order a 'Perrito' tapas basket, with dog-friendly bomba rice, broken eggs and homemade dog beer! 
Where: 5 Whittaker Avenue, TW9 1EJ
Book now: Brindisa Tapas Richmond

Roe, Canary Wharf

What: Fallow pair Jack Croft and Will Murray are officially YouTube famous these days, but don’t write off either of their restaurants - they’re both exceptional. Roe feels a little more relaxed and easy-going compared to Fallow, and some of that is thanks to the abundance of outside tables which sit right next to the still waters of Wood Wharf. Food-wise, expect grilled skewers, wildfarmed flatbreads, proper burgers and succulent steaks from the grill.
Where: 5 Park Drive, Wood Wharf, E14 9GG
Book now: Roe

Smith's Bar & Grill, Paddington

What: Well executed modern British cooking, with a wide range of choices for adults and kids alike - Smith’s Bar & Grill does exactly what you want it to do. Not to mention, it also has a huge outdoor terrace just a few strides from the still waters of the Grand Union Canal at Paddington Basin. Dishes span wild boar ragu, lamb loin chops and Thai beef salad, as well as, the signature Smith's burger with Gruyere cheese and dijon mayo.
Where: 25 Sheldon Square, W2 6EY
Book now: Smith's Bar & Grill

Feng Shang Princess, Primrose Hill

What: This romantic Chinese restaurant floats gently on the Regent’s Canal on the north edge of Regent’s Park, near Primrose Hill. Set across three storeys, the floating restaurant boasts windows that look out onto the canal, so you can watch as barges drift past. Expect recognisable Cantonese classics - sweet and sour chicken, sesame prawn toast and beef in black bean sauce. 
Where: Cumberland Basin, Prince Albert Road, NW1 7SS
Book now: Feng Shang Princess

Rotunda, King's Cross

What: Offering a break from the hustle and bustle of N1, Rotunda’s large waterside terrace is a pleasantly serene contrast to the soaring offices above it. The kitchen takes full advantage of the owner’s farm and butchery in Northumberland for well-aged slabs of beef and flat-iron steaks, offered alongside lighter starters such as grilled asparagus with black garlic, or a heritage tomato and burrata salad.
Where: 90 York Way, N1 9AG
Book now: Rotunda

Hithe + Seek, City of London

What: With a large window offering fantastic views of the Thames and surrounding city, Hithe + Seek is a great, luxury spot for drinks at a riverside restaurant in London. The internationally inspired wine and cocktail bar also offers a thoughtfully designed food menu, with paired wines, featuring dishes like lamb kofta, grilled octopus, or duck terrine. Homemade rolls, crackers, chutneys and olives all make perfect accompaniments to an evening of drinks by the riverside. 
Where: 60 Upper Thames Street, EC4V 3AD
Book now: Hithe + Seek

Sam's Riverside, Hammersmith

What: This terrific brasserie sits right on the edge of the Thames in Hammersmith, just upstream from the famous River Cafe. If you can’t get a booking at the latter (or the bank balance won’t allow it), Sam’s Riverside offers superb seasonal cooking at a fraction of the price, in a beautiful, bright, airy space. It’s worth popping along for the set lunch and Sunday roast menus as well.
Where: 1 Crisp Walk, W6 9DN
Book now: Sam's Riverside

The Lighterman, King's Cross

What: Lively and fun, this riverside dining spot features wrap-around terraces that make the most of its prime location. As an all day dining and drinking establishment, the menu features all the old school classics like fish and chips, however the real star of the show is the wood-fired grill. Chargrilled chicken, rib eye steak and a range of flatbread dishes transform a typical pub menu into an exciting, contemporary riverside restaurant.
Where: 3 Granary Square, N1C 4BH
Book now: The Lighterman

The Wharf, Teddington

What: The Wharf’s idyllic setting on the bank of Teddington Lock is a big calling card, but just as good is the range of fantastic food served throughout the day. Lounge by the waterside and enjoy anything from afternoon tea to seafood sharing platters or a Sunday jazz lunch. There's even a special 'River Menu' for a lunchtime asparagus risotto, or a pan fried salmon with beurre blanc. Just remember to book, because The Wharf gets busy.
Where: 22 Manor Road, TW11 8BG
Book now: The Wharf

Barge East, Stratford

What: Barge East has a permanent spot moored up in Hackney Wick, sitting pretty in between the River Lea and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The buzzy, intimate atmosphere is a pleasure to be in, but Barge East also offers genuinely thoughtful, seasonal cookery that has made it a favourite neighbourhood spot with Wick locals. When the weather's nice, the seating area spills out onto the grassy banks too.
Where: White Post Lane, E9 5EN
Book now: Barge East

The Summerhouse, Maida Vale

What: Dreamily located by the banks of Little Venice, this breezy venue offers canal-side dining with sunny echoes of a Long Island beach retreat. Seafood is the main culinary event, as options include homemade fishcakes with watercress sauce or whole-baked sea bream. Reminiscent of a Cape Cod getaway, The Summerhouse is ideal for a balmy London evening, finished off with a refreshing lemon posset or seasonal fruit clafoutis.
Where: 60 Bloomfield Road, W9 2PA
Book now: The Summerhouse

Tate Modern Restaurant, Bankside

What: Whether you're spending a day sightseeing in London, or heading to an exhibition at the Tate Modern, you might like to stop for a spot of lunch at the Tate Modern Restaurant. With uninterrupted views of St Paul's Cathedral, the restaurant's panoramic surroundings are a feast for the eyes. Enjoy sophisticated seasonal plates, like potato gnocchi with wild garlic, slow cooked duck leg, and grilled bavette steak. 
Where: Tate Modern, SE1 9TG
Book now: Tate Modern Restaurant

Gaucho, Tower Bridge

What: Sip a glass of Argentine red, tuck into a premium steak, and gaze out over London's skyline at Gaucho Tower Bridge. Facing the iconic bridge, the restaurant is upmarket and polished, with a secluded cocktail bar, stylish furnishings - and breathtaking views to match. Gaucho is best known for its Argentinian steaks, so be sure to order a sizzling ribeye, or a juicy rump - and don't forget to take a quick picture of the view before you head out.
Where: 2 More London Place, SE1 2AP
Book now: Gaucho Tower Bridge

Thai Square, Putney

What: Thai Square is an opulent Thai restaurant, with 180-degree views over the glistening River Thames. Featuring tall glass windows as well as an outdoor patio, there's not a bad seat in the house - although this round group dining table might take the top spot. Bright, airy and welcoming, the restaurant has become a real hit among Putney locals, and rightly so. Signature dishes include steamed sea bass with ginger, and pan fried glass noodles with prawns and shiitake mushrooms. 
Where: 2-4 Lower Richmond Road, SW15 1LN
Book now: Thai Square

Brasserie Constance, Fulham

What: Headed up by Michelin-starred chef Adam Byatt, Brasserie Constance is a modern British brasserie, perfect for special occasions. You'll find it at Fulham Pier, boasting views over the River Thames, with both indoor and outdoor seating. The waterside balcony is like a tranquil hideaway in the summer months, with cosy blankets to keep you warm in the cooler evenings. Expect fine wine, glorious views, and seriously impressive food.
Where: Level 1, Fulham Pier, SW6 6HH
Book now: Brasserie Constance

Towpath Cafe, Dalston

What: The opening of the Towpath Cafe signals the end of winter in east London, closely followed by queues snaking along the canalside. Catering for breakfast, lunch and dinner, tables at Towpath are in high demand and it’s no wonder, thanks to exceptional seasonal cooking, great bakery treats and excellent coffee. Not only is this some of the best food in the city, it's also one of the most serene places to eat.  
Where: 42 De Beauvoir Crescent, N1 5SB
Book now: Towpath Cafe

Cafe Cecilia, Hackney

What: Chef Max Rocha’s previous experience at The River Cafe, St John Bread & Wine, and Spring, has stood him in good stead at this ultra-trendy spot between Bethnal Green and London Fields. The minimal, ingredient-led menu is straight out of the St John playbook - think sage and anchovy fritti, glistening terrines and lamb leg with sprouting broccoli. Good luck getting a table, particularly the little outdoor ones just over the road from the canal.
Where: 32 Andrews Road, E8 4FX
Book now: Cafe Cecilia

Peggy Jean, Richmond

What: The Daisy Green group has done a smart job of repurposing barges in various parts of London, turning them into moored restaurants. Peggy Jean is the largest and most impressive of those, and it’s quite something on a sunny day in Richmond, catering for everything from Aussie-inspired brunches to freshly-baked pizzas and small-plate suppers with cocktails.
Where: Bridge Boathouses, TW9 1TH
Book now: Peggy Jean

Rick Stein, Barnes

What: No riverside restaurant list would be complete without Rick Stein. His Barnes dining experience provides a sanctuary from fast-paced London life brought about by idyllic views of the Thames - a nod to Stein's Cornish heritage. It is not just the location that will get you reminiscing about summer holidays by the seaside though; the menu boasts a fine selection of fish and seafood while adding exciting twists. 
Where: 125 Mortlake High Street, SW14 8SN
Book now: Rick Stein

The best riverside pubs and bars in London

When the British summer sun finally shows it's face, where better to congregate with a few pals and enjoy a cold pint than by one of London's many rivers, canals and waterways?

Flo Bar, Fulham

What: Fancy a classy cocktail on the winding River Thames? Flo Bar is just the ticket. Sitting on the first floor of Fulham Pier, the bar sits next to its sister restaurant - Brasserie Constance - and offers a carefully curated cocktail selection, crafted by Flo's in-house mixologist. If you get peckish, there's some delightful little bar snacks to choose from, like anchovy fingers and Irish oysters. 
Where: Fulham Pier, SW6 6HH
Book now: Flo Bar

OXO Tower Brasserie & Bar, Southwark

What: OXO Tower really puts up a good case for being one of the best riverside spots in London; with views of St Paul's, the London Eye and the Thames below, you really can't ask for much more. Located on the top floor, the expert team of mixologists create cocktails that are almost as beautiful as the views. Treat yourself to an evening of drinks and whet your appetite with large plates like the OXO Wagyu burger or crispy fried squid.
Where: Barge House Street, SE1 9PH
Book now: OXO Tower Brasserie & Bar

Hawksmoor Bar, Canary Wharf

What: Hawksmoor Bar was once called The Lowback Bar, and as any Hawksmoor fanatic knows, it does an absolutely brilliant line-up of cocktails. This bar shifts the focus over to the group’s drinks offering, dishing up all manner of innovative cocktails, from iconic big-hitters to easy-sipping ‘Sundowners’. Sure, the wharf outside isn’t a ‘river’ by any definition, but if you’re looking for somewhere waterside to enjoy some of the best cocktails in London, Hawksmoor Bar is the place.
Where: 1 Water Street, E14 5GX
Book now: Hawksmoor Bar Wood Wharf

Trafalgar Tavern, Greenwich

What: This historic Greenwich boozer dates way back to 1837 (Charles Dickens and William Gladstone both drank here in their times), and it has claimed a prime spot on the banks of the Thames ever since. Wait for high tide, then sit in one of the bay windows - ideally with a pint of guest ale - and let the peaceful enjoyment of the Thames wash over you (not literally, though it may feel like you’re practically in the water).
Where: Park Row, SE10 9NW
Book now: Trafalgar Tavern

Tattershall Castle, Embankment

What: You want to be by the river? How about, in the river? The Tattershall Castle is a pub housed on a permanently-moored Thames riverboat, with multiple floors spanning a gastropub, restaurant and bar. Grab a seat up top to enjoy the view (you can see the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament from here) or head to the lower decks for a more classic pub vibe. Since you're by the water, why not order some of their fish 'n' chips?
Where: Victoria Embankment, SW1A 2HR
Book now: Tattershall Castle

Crate Brewery, Hackney

What: In East London, Hackney Wick is the place to be, and Crate Brewery sits right at the heart of it. With a great selection of beers on tap, delicious pizza, and buzzy vibes, you're guaranteed to have a fun night out here. In the summer, its canalside location brings the space to life, with punters gathering on a wooden bench outside, and huddling around beer barrels. It's cool, lively, and always packed with people - for good reason!
Where: Queens Yard, E9 5EN
Book now: Crate Brewery

The Blue Anchor, Hammersmith

What: There's few better places to spend a sunny day in London than on a pub bench overlooking the river. At The Blue Anchor, bench seating spills out onto the pavement, with views over the water and Hammersmith bridge. With over 300 years of history, this pub is a proper boozer - perfect for a crisp, cold pint and perhaps a smoky bacon cheeseburger, if you get hungry. 
Where: 13 Lower Mall, W6 9DJ
Book now: The Blue Anchor

The Gun, Canary Wharf

What: With its striking riverside location, The Gun is full of possibilities for balmy evenings and lazy Sundays. Owned by Fuller’s brewery, the menu boasts posh nosh such as west Mersea rock oysters and a rack of lamb to gorge on during a leisurely summer evening. Plus with a Sunday menu, it would be quite a feat to find a better spot to tuck into a Sunday roast in London.
Where: 27 Coldharbour, E14 9NS
Book now: The Gun

Riverside dining in London certainly leaves you spoilt for choice; the glistening Thames provides some pretty impressive and memorable sights. Thirsty for even more gorgeous views in London? Check out our list of best rooftop bars and the best rooftop restaurants in London - and keep your fingers crossed for sunny weather!