41 best outdoor restaurants in London 2026: Perfect spots 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 heated and covered terraces to glorious rooftops. 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!

Casa, Mayfair and Victoria

What: With two options, Casa Victoria and Casa Mayfair, you can choose where you enjoy your quality Portuguese cooking. Casa Victoria offers terrace seating laid out with umbrellas, while its Mayfair sister is a quieter spot, with a clutch of tables lining the pedestrianised Heddon Street. Both champion Lisbon-style flavours, from chilli and garlic prawns to the signature frango piri piri. Tag on Piri-Piri Margaritas to enjoy in the sun, and order everything to share.
Type of seating: Terrace area in Sir Simon Milton Square (pictured left), or smaller tables on Heddon Street (right)
Where: 2 Sir Simon Milton Square, SW1E 5DJ; 31-33 Heddon Street, W1B 4BN
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Casa Victoria
Book now: Casa Victoria; Casa Mayfair

Fonda, Mayfair

What: Fonda is KOL chef Santiago Lastra’s more casual answer to his Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant, pivoting away from high-concept plates to traditional, quality cooking focused on tacos, tostadas and seasonal specials. The good news is that you can now enjoy its menu outdoors. Fonda also boasts a lovely 40-seater terrace overlooking Heddon Street, along with a line-up of seasonal summer dishes to enjoy in the sunshine - think grilled octopus with ratte potatoes and bone marrow, and a fish taco that we reckon is easily one of the best tacos in London.
Type of outdoor seating: Terrace tucked down a side street
Where: 12 Heddon Street, W1B 4BZ
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Fonda
Book now: Fonda

Sunday in Brooklyn, Marylebone

What: You’ve likely walked past Sunday in Brooklyn’s huge awning-covered terrace, perhaps whilst sauntering in or out of Selfridges. Well, consider this your call to nab yourself a table - it’s a prime people-watching spot for one, but the food all-day menu is excellent too, ranging from American diner-style brunch options (including those Insta-famous hazelnut maple pancake stacks - one of our best pancakes in London) to crowd-pleasing dinner options.
Type of outdoor seating: Buzzy streetside seating
Where: 10-12 James Street, W1U 1EE
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Sunday in Brooklyn Marylebone
Book now: Sunday in Brooklyn Marylebone

House of Louie, Covent Garden

What: House of Louie seamlessly blends French and Creole cooking, whilst also providing a unique mix of gorgeous interior styling and live funk, jazz and soul. Spend the day lounging in the rooftop garden, then head to the Alligator Bar and warm up with a few cocktails and a brioche lobster roll, before joining a New Orleans-eque party late into the night.
Type of outdoor seating: Shaded rooftop garden
Where: 13-15 West Street, WC2H 9NE
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at House of Louie
Book now: House of Louie

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.
Type of outdoor seating: Lavish courtyard
Where: 20 Hanover Square, W1S 1JY
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at The Maine
Book now: The Maine Mayfair

Yasmin, Soho

What: 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. 
Type of outdoor seating: Shaded rooftop lounge
Where: 1 Warwick Street, W1B 5LR 
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Yasmin
Book now: Yasmin Soho

OXO Tower Restaurant, Southwark

What: OXO Tower is one of London’s OG terraces, with the obvious allure being those magnificent views out over the Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral. The cooking is still excellent too - OXO Tower has retained its reputation for hyper-seasonal, modern European cooking, with menus changing regularly and neatly balancing between slick and affordable. It’s a perfect spot to watch the skyline slowly darken on a balmy summer evening.
Type of outdoor seating: Balcony with skyline views
Where: OXO Tower Wharf, Barge House Street, SE1 9PH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at OXO Tower
Book now: OXO Tower Restaurant

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. 
Type of outdoor seating: Beautiful hidden courtyard
Where: 88 St John Street, EC1M 4EH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Luca
Book now: Luca

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).
Type of outdoor seating: Luxury terrace on the streets of Mayfair
Where: 11-15 Swallow Street, W1B 4DG
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill
Book now: Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill

The Devonshire, Soho

What: ‘The Dev’ has quickly become an intrinsic focal point of Soho, not just because of the famed Guinness pouring, but also because the upstairs restaurant is absolutely superb. Even better, there’s actually a rooftop terrace, which the team tends to keep free for walk-ins only. Is it likely to be busy? Yes, but if you’re prepared to wait, this is probably one of the best al fresco tables in London.
Type of outdoor seating: Upstairs balcony for prime people-watching
Where: 17 Denman Street, W1D 7HW
Book now: The Devonshire

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.

Godet, Islington

What: If you’re looking to soak up the UV, then Godet’s curbside benches are a real sun trap. But, for those that spend the summer months searching for shade, there’s also a cutesy terrace out back. It’s a charmingly simple setting - a handful of wooden benches and potted plants - for sipping on orange wine, and snacking on Cantonese small plates courtesy of resident chef Ling Lings.
Type of outdoor seating: Beer garden vibes in a wine bar
Where: 382 Essex Road, N1 3PF
Book now: Godet

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.
Type of outdoor seating: Spacious outdoor seating on Granary Square
Where: 3 Granary Square, N1C 4BH
Book now: The Lighterman

The Compton Arms, Islington

What: Islington isn’t short of great pubs, and The Compton Arms might just be the neighbourhood’s finest. This pocket-sized watering hole is known for its local feel, cutting-edge plates - Rake are currently in residence - and its adorable little courtyard. Decorated with joyful tiles, casual cushions and potted plants, it’s like a little oasis for slurping ice-cold pints and chowing down on ray wing tenders. Inside, there’s even air conditioning, which is pretty good going for a 16th-century boozer.
Type of outdoor seating: Intimate pub courtyard
Where: 4 Compton Avenue, N1 2XD
Book now: The Compton Arms

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. 
Type of outdoor seating: French bistro terrace
Where: 9 Islington Green, N1 2XH
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Bellanger
Book now: Bellanger

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.

Towpath Cafe, Dalston

What: Towpath Cafe is one of London’s greatest treasures. Tucked along a well-trodden stretch of Regent’s Canal, this unassuming canalside cafe just so happens to serve some of the city’s finest, freshest seasonal food. Sure, it has its quirks (no toilets) and often a snaking queue, but it’s well worth the wait. Serene, endearing, and no fuss, there’s nowhere better to spend a sunny afternoon.
Type of outdoor seating: Peaceful canalside tables
Where: 42 De Beauvoir Crescent, N1 5SB
Book now: Towpath Cafe

Los Mochis, London City

What: Think we’re going to stop harping on about Los Mochis’ incredible Liverpool Street rooftop? Think again. Where else can you sit in the open air, surrounded by cacti and agave plants, sipping on spicy margs and mezcal cocktails and eating some of the most exciting food in the city? The views are exquisite, and the food is really excellent too, diving nimbly between Japanese and Mexican flavours.
Type of outdoor seating: Giant sun-soaked rooftop
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

Barge East, Stratford

What: You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor dining at Barge East - not only can you grab a seat on the deck of the boat, you can also stick to dry land and sit in the huge garden area right on the edge of the water. In the garden, you’ll find easy-going street food, burgers and chilled drinks, whilst the restaurant kicks things up a notch with some very accomplished cookery, as well as a cracking Sunday roast. Both the front and middle deck of the barge are covered and heated in case of a turn in the weather.
Type of outdoor seating: Whimsical canalside garden
Where: White Post Lane, E9 5EN
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Barge East
Book now: Barge East

Savage Garden LDN, Tower Hill

What: Perched 12 floors above the City, Savage Garden is all about big views. Its outdoor terrace is open to the elements and works on a first-come, first-served basis; it’s a prime spot for cocktails and shareable bites. DJs keep the energy high, and the sunsets over Tower Bridge are unmatched, making this one of London’s most popular rooftop playgrounds.
Type of outdoor seating: Buzzing rooftop with views
Where: 7 Pepys Street, EC3N 4AF
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private event spaces at Savage Garden LDN
Book now: Savage Garden LDN

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!
Type of outdoor seating: Secluded streetside terrace
Where: 84-86 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 3JL
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at The Brush Grand Cafe
Book now: The Brush Grand Cafe

Florattica Rooftop, Aldgate

What: Florattica Rooftop’s alfresco terrace is ever-so chic, framed by foliage and boasting some very special views of the Gherkin and St Paul’s. Eleven floors up, it makes a dreamy perch for sunset cocktails and laid-back sharing plates - we reckon it’d make a fantastic spot for a date. Weekends bring long luxury brunching, where bubbles feel obligatory. Everything about Florattica Rooftop is effortlessly photogenic, making it a go-to for open-air lounging above the city skyline.
Type of outdoor seating: Floral roof terrace
Where: 15 Minories, EC3N 1AX
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Florattica Rooftop
Book now: Florattica Rooftop

Crispin, Spitalfields

What: One of the most popular openings in the last few years, Crispin is a firm favourite in the realm of relaxed but intensely delicious dining. And the terrace here is the best place to enjoy it all. There’s an air of privacy here, complete with a great cocktail list to enjoy a tipple alongside some seasonal modern cooking. We’re talking cod cheek and chorizo skewers, burrata with peperonata, and strawberry tarts. Everything on the menu offers up that summery sun-streaked feeling. Who needs a holiday?
Type of outdoor seating: Lively restaurant overspill
Where: Pavilion on the Corner, White’s Row, E1 7NF
Book now: Crispin

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.
Type of outdoor seating: Dockside wraparound terrace
Where: 5 Park Drive, Wood Wharf, E14 9GG
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Roe
Book now: Roe

Ara, Aldgate East

What: Ara throws convention to the wind with its vibrant fusion menu that blends a hodge podge of global flavours to create dishes that are genuinely new and unique. We’re talking blackened leeks with muhammara, XO sauce and confit walnuts, and burrata with crispy chilli peanuts and apricots. Where better to enjoy such vibrant cooking than in the sunshine? The patio terrace overlooks Aldgate East courtyard and boasts terracotta table seating for 20 guests.
Type of outdoor seating: Leafy patio terrace
Where: 1 New Drum Street, E1 7AY
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Ara
Book now: Ara

Enoteca Da Luca Devonshire Square, Liverpool Street

What: Despite its location in the beating heart of the City, Enoteca Da Luca’s gorgeous patio terrace feels serene and secluded, overlooking the picture-perfect Devonshire Square. Large umbrellas decorated with fairy lights protect diners from midday sun and unexpected showers alike, and it's become a bit of a failsafe spot for city workers looking for somewhere to enjoy a relaxed business lunch or after-work drinks. To be fair, fresh pasta dishes and an Italian wine list longer than your arm is exactly what we want to eat in the summer.
Type of outdoor seating: Patio terrace on Devonshire Square
Where: Western Courtyard, Devonshire Square, EC2M 4AE
Book now: Enoteca Da Luca Devonshire Square

Cafe Mission, Shoreditch

What: No nonsense, seasonal cooking, specialising in plant-based and energy-giving plates - Cafe Mission is a bit of a hidden gem, set right about Mission E1 movement studio in Shoreditch. The lovely terrace makes it even more worthy of a visit - sit out under the parasols with a cocktail or a healthy juice in hand and watch East London life going by just below you.
Type of outdoor seating: Luxe rooftop in the sun
Where: 7-9 Fashion Street, E1 6PX
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private event spaces at Cafe Mission
Book now: Cafe Mission

STK Rooftop, Stratford

What: If it’s rooftops you’re into, you won’t find many more glamorous than STK’s Stratford terrace. You know exactly what you get with STK - huge steaks, ‘vibe dining’, lobsters slathered in truffle and Wagyu butter, and live DJs spinning on most evenings. You’ll find these terrace seats get booked up quickly, but the STK Rooftop is also available for private hire too.
Type of outdoor seating: Panoramic views on the 18th floor
Where: 40 Celebration Avenue, E20 1DB
Book now: STK Rooftop

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. 
Type of outdoor seating: Raised terrace on Devonshire Square
Where: 9 Devonshire Square, EC2M 4YL
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Cinnamon Kitchen City
Book now: Cinnamon Kitchen City

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.
Type of outdoor seating: Spectacular views from the 39th floor
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

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.
Type of outdoor seating: Canalside brewery with wooden benches and beer kegs
Where: Unit 7 White Building, E9 5EN
Book now: Crate Brewery

Acme Fire Cult, Dalston

What: This ain't no posh patio. Acme Fire Cult’s front terrace might be a bit more spit-and-sawdust, but this is exactly the sort of setting we want when enjoying barbecue dishes fresh from the grill. Acme Fire Cult is also one of the few restaurants in London to boast a terrace that’s bigger than the restaurant itself, with a whopping 60 covers (plus another 50 inside). Pull up a bench seat and tuck into a selection of its best-selling dishes, like coal roasted leeks with pistachio romesco, Marmite bread with pecorino, and fermented pumpkin hummus with macadamia.
Type of outdoor seating: No-frills bench seating
Where: The Bootyard, Abbot Street, E8 3DP
Book now: Acme Fire Cult

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. 

Forza Wine, Peckham

What: Forza Wine is the kind of cult restaurant that has the power to draw Londoners from across the city down to the depths of Peckham. Ideal for a girls’ night out, it’s all about ‘Italian-ish’ small plates, classy cocktails, and synthy tunes. The main attraction? A rooftop terrace overlooking the distant London skyline. Lined with casual wooden benches - and a secret outdoor hut, with a private sound system - it’s the kind of place you’ll want to stay sipping Negronis all night long.
Type of outdoor seating: Cool Peckham roof terrace
Where: 133A Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4BQ
Book now: Forza Wine Peckham

Balham Bowls Club, Balham

What: We’re firm believers that the magic of a beautiful beer garden will never get old. Balham Bowls Club agrees. Here, you can find two outdoor dining areas. At the front, you’ll find streetside tables on the patio, while the rear hosts a popular beer garden, which is the perfect spot for plates of fish and chips, or the pub's signature dry-aged Hereford beef burger layered with mature cheddar and matched with chimichurri mayonnaise and skin-on fries.
Type of outdoor seating: Sociable beer garden
Where: 7-9 Ramsden Road, SW12 8QX
Book now: Balham Bowls Club

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.
Type of outdoor seating: Sheltered terrace in Borough Market
Where: 4 Bedale Street, SE1 9AL1
Book now: OMA

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.

Petersham Nurseries, Richmond

What: Is there a more iconic outdoor dining spot in London than under the bougainvillaea and jasmine of the Petersham Nurseries greenhouses? Over the last two decades, the Boglione family has transformed this nursery into one of London’s most attractive dining spots, with rustic Italian cooking to match the setting. Much of the produce comes from the family’s own farm in Devon, and it's treated with the utmost care and respect across simple, seasonal menus.
Type of outdoor seating: Leafy garden nursery
Where: Church Lane, TW10 7AB
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Petersham Nurseries
Book now: Petersham Nurseries

Julie's, Holland Park

What: Glamorous Holland Park hotspot Julie’s is one of London’s true celeb-magnets - famously frequented by the likes of Mick Jagger, Kate Moss and Diana Princess of Wales back in the day. As well as the glitzy indoor restaurant, there’s also a lovely quiet front terrace, where you can lounge under a pair of cherry trees and sip on one of Julie’s excellent Martinis, or share an excellent Sunday roast.
Type of outdoor seating: Glamorous terrace for celeb-spotting
Where: 135 Portland Road, W11 4LW
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Julie's
Book now: Julie's

Sam's Riverside, Hammersmith

What: Offering seasonal, modern British menus that showcase prime produce from across the UK, Sam’s Riverside is an ideal summer spot. Expect a great selection of seafood and shellfish, and a very impressive oyster menu too. Matched with views of the river and Hammersmith Bridge, this is the spot if you fancy a taste of continental calm, and a glass (or several) of Journey's End's refreshing Grenache rosé.
Type of outdoor seating: Relaxed riverside dining
Where: 1 Crisp Walk, W6 9DN
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Sam’s Riverside
Book now: Sam’s Riverside

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. Easily one of London's best Italian restaurants, and that's saying something.
Type of outdoor seating: Intimate terrace overlooking Holland Park
Where: Off Abbotsbury Road, Holland Park, W8 6LU
Booking for a special occasion? Discover private and group dining options at Belvedere
Book now: Belvedere

Canal, Westbourne Park

What: This cool new opening from the same team behind Crispin and Bristro Freddie is named for its location next to Westbourne Park's Grand Union Canal. Set back from the road in a swish development, its expansive terrace offers a secluded and serene spot to sit with a few snacky plates - think Coombeshead Farm jamòn, flatbreads and pickles - plus a glass of natural wine while you gaze at the water. 
Type of outdoor seating: Spacious terrace beside the canal
Where: 11 Woodfield Road, W9 2BA
Book now: Canal

1910 Cantina, Parsons Green

What: Aside from the excellent (and very affordable) Mexican menu, we love visiting 1910 Cantina to lounge in the secluded back courtyard, which is shaded by towering trees. It’s the perfect spot to sip on excellent tequila cocktails and order a couple of plates of 1910 Cantina’s incredible birria quesadillas. A very affordable way to enjoy some of the best Mexican food in London.
Type of outdoor seating: Cosy hidden courtyard
Where: 277 New Kings Road, SW6 4RD
Book now: 1910 Cantina Parsons Green

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. 
Type of outdoor seating: Rooftop restaurant and bar
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.
Type of outdoor seating: Green garden terrace
Where: 85 Duke of York Square, SW3 4LY
Book now: Manicomio Chelsea

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.