58 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 - the glorious high-rise rooftop terrace at 14 Hills, for example, or the Frederick's garden in Islington. Others are well equipped to battle the British weather all year round - head to Aqua Nueva or Aqua Kyoto and soak in the views from the heated, covered terrace with a cocktail in hand, or duck under the awning at Trivet and watch the world go by whilst in the safe hands of Jonny Lake and Isa Bal, the former head chef and head sommelier of The Fat Duck.

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!

Aqua Nueva, Soho

What: Found just a stone’s throw from Oxford Circus station, this central spot is the perfect place to recuperate after a busy morning shopping. With a Spanish menu at Aqua Nueva you can expect tapas sharing plates like a classic tortilla with potatoes and caramelised onions as well as rich and creamy croquettes. The terrace has comfortable lounge-style seating and plenty of planting on the peripheries for a laidback garden feel. Wonderful views of central London’s skyline complete the experience.
Where: 240 Regent Street, W1B 3BR
Book now: Aqua Nueva

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

Aqua Kyoto, Soho

What: With a partially covered and heated outdoor terrace, Aqua Kyoto makes a great dining destination whatever the weather. With options for brunch, lunch or dinner, there are menus for every mealtime. Sushi fans will be pleased with the extensive selection from the in-house bar which makes each piece in front of diners, while the robata grill throws up more substantial fare like truffle yakitori skewers.
Where: 240 Regent Street, W1B 3BR
Book now: Aqua Kyoto

BiBi, Mayfair

What: London isn’t short of quality Indian restaurants, but BiBi has already launched itself among the best of them by combining south Asian flavours with European techniques and the best of British produce. The mango wood and sandstone interiors are very pleasing on the eye too, as is the relaxed terrace that comes complete with heaters and blankets.
Where: 42 North Audley Street, W1K 6ZR
Book now: BiBi

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

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

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

La Goccia, Covent Garden

What: One of two Petersham Nurseries restaurants in Covent Garden (alongside The Petersham), La Goccia has a relaxed cafe vibe, offering an extensive menu of Italian small plates, aperitivi and pastas. Petersham was right at the front of the hyper-seasonal, farm to fork revolution and that natural vibe stretches through to the beautiful floral court at La Goccia - a hub of tranquillity in Covent Garden.
Where: 27-31 King Street, WC2E 8JB
Book now: La Goccia

Tavolino, London Bridge

What: Headed up by Louis Korovilas of Bancone fame, Tavolino is a two-storey riverside spot with an outdoor terrace offering excellent views of the river and Tower Bridge. It boasts an elegant menu of Italian delights, with practically everything - including the bread and ice cream - made on site. We recommend going the whole nine yards, or rather four courses: antipasti, pasta, secondi, dolci (with a few aperitivi to kick things off). Dishes include burrata with fig and hibiscus dressing, the famous 'silk handkerchief' pasta with walnut butter and confit egg yolk, whole baked sea bream and chocolate balsamic mousse with Planeta olive oil ice cream to finish for those who have room left. 
Where: Unit 1 Riverside, SE1 2DA
Book now: Tavolino

Chiltern Firehouse, Marylebone

What: Chiltern Firehouse might not have the same buzz around it as it once did, but you’ll still find this place packed most nights. The venue’s outdoor terrace is truly dreamy, decked out with a monochrome colour scheme, marble-topped tables and festooned with twinkling lights come sundown. On the weekends, you can enjoy brunch outside, with dishes on offer that include Chiltern’s signature fluffy pancake stacks.
Where: 1 Chiltern Street, W1U 7PA
Book now: Chiltern Firehouse

Alto by San Carlo at Selfridges, Marylebone

What: This hidden gem on the roof of Selfridges offers sweeping views across central London. Depending on which mood strikes, there’s a comfortable lounge area where you can enjoy cocktails and snacks in the sun or a full restaurant set-up for relaxed all-day Italian dining. Alto by San Carlo often hosts live entertainment too, so it's worth keeping an eye out to see what's coming up and booking accordingly (though they do hold tables for walk-ins). 
Where: 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB
Book now: Alto by San Carlo

Fallow, Piccadilly

What: Having trained under the legendary Heston Blumenthal, the owners of Fallow have that keen experimental edge which lends itself to their environmental ethos. The kitchen takes oft-overlooked ingredients like dairy beef and cod’s head and transforms them into something really special. With a covered and heated terrace in the heart of St James's, and some of the friendliest staff we’ve come across recently, this is the perfect place to unwind after a long day pounding the pavements of central London.
Where: 12 St James's Market, SW1Y 4RP
Book now: Fallow

The Nest in Treehouse, Fitzrovia

What: If 360-degree views of the capital’s skyline aren’t enough to tempt you here, how about all-day dining that delivers some real crowd-pleasers to boot? Found at the top of the trendy Treehouse hotel, this spot will give you plenty of social media fodder and then some. Expect plush furnishings, serious amounts of foliage and selection of nibbles, small and large plates, including grilled king prawns with lemongrass, lime and kaffir butter, and vegan yoghurt pannacotta with poached rhubarb and honey tuille biscuit.
Where: 14-15 Langham Place, W1B 2QS
Book now: The Nest in Treehouse Hotel

Scott’s, Mayfair

What: Having positioned itself as one of London’s premiere dining destinations way back when, Scott’s has managed to stand the test of time by maintaining an old-school class which is hard to find elsewhere. Defying the laws of ages doesn’t however mean being uptight, and the restaurant’s terrace affords guests a breezier (both literally and metaphorically) experience than eating in the dining room. Take your seat at one of the crisply dressed tables under a warm heat lamp. Be warned though, with the good people of Mayfair to observe, conversation with companions can take a bit of a backseat.
Where: 20 Mount Street, W1K 2HE
Book now: Scott's

YOPO 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, YOPO 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: YOPO at The Mandrake

Dalloway Terrace, Tottenham Court Road

What: One of the most Instagrammable restaurants in London, in-demand Dalloway Terrace is a truly gorgeous space, decked out with vibrant florals for each of the seasons. While sitting among the lush greenery, you can enjoy a spot of afternoon tea or cocktails, as well as the usual à la carte offering – think beer-battered fish and chips or pork belly with an apple jus.  
Where: 16-22 Great Russell Street, WC1B 3NN
Book now: Dalloway Terrace

Circolo Popolare, Fitzrovia

What: From the infamous Big Mama group, Circolo Popolare brings the company’s signature Instagrammable interiors and an Italian menu which is just as picture perfect. Think a carbonara where your pasta is tossed hot into a wheel of cheese to create a thick, silky sauce, and a lemon meringue pie with a marshmallow-like top ten times the size of any other we’ve seen. The outdoor terrace faces onto a sweet little pedestrianised square, so is relatively peaceful.
Where: 40-41 Rathbone Place, W1T 1HX
Book now: Circolo Popolare

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.

The Farrier, Camden

What: This modern pub found at the heart of Camden’s iconic market holds the accolade of being the market’s only pub. The building is a former horse hospital and stables and hides a secret courtyard out the back which is furnished with heating and a cosy fire pit. The menu offers modern pub grub, with fish, chips and mushy peas being given a modern twist with the addition of sorrel, while a rack of lamb is flavoured with foraged meadowsweet and reindeer moss for an intriguing update on a roast.
Where: 87/88 North Yard, NW1 8AH
Book now: The Farrier

Rotunda, King's Cross

What: Long before Coal Drops Yard, Rotunda was flying the flag for King’s Cross’ cool factor. The expansive venue benefits from a charming terrace which overlooks the canal and has a buzzy atmosphere. Rotunda’s shtick is its impressive commitment to butchering all its meat on site, resulting in some of the best burgers and steaks that you’ll find in the capital.
Where: 90 York Way, N1 9AG
Book now: Rotunda

St Pancras Brasserie and Champagne Bar by Searcys, King's Cross

What: An iconic London bar and restaurant - you haven't really had the authentic Eurostar experience if you haven't had a glass of fizz at Searcys before departure. It's still a lovely place to hang out thanks to the open-ended nature of the platform setting and the awe-inspiring glass roof protecting you from the elements. Private booths for up to six add further appeal.
Where: St Pancras International, N1C 4QL
Book now: St Pancras Brasserie and Champagne Bar by Searcys

Hicce, King's Cross

What: Found at hip King's Cross development Coal Drops Yard, the terrace at Hicce joins several other restaurants in the Yard with outdoor space, so on a nice day you really feel part of the buzz here. While watching the crowds go by, you can tuck into a menu of wood-fired cooking curated by chef Pip Lacey (a finalist in 2017's Great British Menu) – we're fans of the intensely meaty lamb shoulder burger, topped with slithers of courgette, and there's a fun cocktail menu too.
Where: Unit 102 Stable Street, N1C 4DQ
Book now: Hicce

Frederick’s, Islington

What: Frederick’s is a true London classic, benefiting from a charming garden at the back of the restaurant and the kind of jovial service that is typical of family-run joints. While dining here, you can enjoy the likes of pan-fried duck breast with an orange and cherry jus, and a white chocolate crème brûlée with strawberry sorbet. Don’t forget to explore the 200-bin wine list. 
Where: 106 Islington High Street, N1 8EG
Book now: Frederick's

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 the delicious Indian plates of Dishoom to the fine-dining fare at Angler, east London has an outdoor restaurant for every occasion.

Ekte, City of London

What: As one of the only independent restaurants in Bloomberg Arcade, Soren Jessen's all-day Nordic eatery has always stood out. What stands out even more, though, is the cosy outdoor area, festooned with plants. Here you can enjoy smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), seafood and vegetarian Nordic dishes. In keeping with current trends, there's also a bottomless brunch on offer with free-flowing bubbles - a perfect way to celebrate any fleeting sunshine we're lucky enough to have. 
Where: 2-8 Bloomberg Arcade, EC4N 8AR
Book now: Ekte

Smokestak, Shoreditch

What: Barbecued meats are a natural bedfellow for warm weather, with the smell of charcoal synonymous with British summers. Bringing you summer vibes by the bucketload is Smokestak. David Carter’s cult-classic celebrates live-fire cooking, and the results are a menu stacked (if you’ll pardon the pun) with incredible smoky meats offset by house-made sauces and zingy sides. The terrace wraps around two sides of the restaurant and gives diners the perfect spot to do some people watching of the great and good of Shoreditch. Both shade and shelter are possibilities too, giving necessary protection should the weather turn.
Where: 35 Sclater Street, E1 6LB
Book now: Smokestak

14 Hills, City of London

What: 14 storeys high in the City of London, 14 Hills isn’t short on wow factor - the dining room is bursting with greenery, and the menu purrs with French decadence, from creme brulee to a butter-basted cote de boeuf. If you can tear yourself away from the gorgeous interiors you’ll find 14 Hills has an enormous terrace too, with stunning skyline views of the city.
Where: 120 Fenchurch Street, EC3M 5BA
Book now: 14 Hills

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

Angelina, Dalston

What: A Japanese-Italian fusion tasting menu in distant Dalston? It sounds like a challenging proposition on the surface, but Angelina combines the two with aplomb in a 10-course kaiseki menu. As if the great food and reasonable price wasn’t tempting enough, Angelina also has a lovely terrace area where you can watch the comings and goings of local Dalstonites.
Where: 56 Dalston Lane, E8 3AH
Book now: Angelina

Aviary, Moorgate

What: The eclectic menu at Aviary takes in plenty of worldly influence at Aviary, but the real attraction is the rooftop where you can book panoramic glass igloos and enjoy a spectacular view of London from the comfort of a plush sofa.
Where: 22-25 Finsbury Square, EC2A 1DX
Book now: Aviary

Koya City, Bank

What: Shuko Oda’s gentle Japanese canteen has found a second home in Bloomberg Arcade - a nice alternative to the smooth pine counters of the Soho original. Grab a little two-seater outside the restaurant in the arcade and watch the world go by as you slurp down bouncy udon noodles.
Where: 10-12 Bloomberg Arcade, EC4N 8AR
Book now: Koya City

Yauatcha City, Spitalfields

What: Expertly crafted dim sum are the order of the day at Yauatcha, and you can now enjoy these wonderfully precise parcels from the comfort of the City branch’s newly revamped outside space. The restaurant’s double wraparound terraces have been given a makeover to allow for a comfortable spot to enjoy lunch or dinner with friends, family or colleagues come warmer days. The Soho branch also has a patio, if central London is more suitable for your get together.
Where: Broadgate Circle, EC2M 2QS
Book now: Yauatcha City

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

Brat x Climpsons Arch, London Fields

What: Brat maintained its forward momentum when it took over a second site at Climpsons Arch - the same site that chef Tomos Parry started at with Kitty Fishers. The daily menu changes to showcase the best of British produce and sticks to the tried-and-tested combination of great ingredients and cooking over live fire. This outdoor restaurant gives diners a seat on a cosy terrace which is covered to protect guests from the elements, while still allowing for plenty of fresh air.
Where: 374 Helmsley Place, E8 3SB
Book now: Brat x Climpson's Arch

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

Angler, Moorgate

What: Seven floors high at South Place Hotel, Michelin-starred Angler sits in the middle of the City’s skyscrapers, rather than floating above them. It’s a romantic spot and you can eat your meal out here, but we’ve always found it’s a great spot for pre- or post-dinner drinks – a great excuse to explore Angler’s impressive collection of wines, spirits and cocktails.   
Where: 3 South Place, EC2M 2AF
Book now: Angler

Dishoom Shoreditch, Shoreditch

What: Ok, so this one isn’t technically outside, but dining on Dishoom’s veranda (no ‘terrace’ talk here, dahhling) feels like you are outdoors, and the retractable roof opens up on sunnier days. Decorated with quirky trinkets and works of art that have all been sourced in India, this is the perfect spot to enjoy signature Dishoom dishes, including its now legendary bacon naan.  
Where: 7 Boundary Street, E2 7JE
Book now: Dishoom Shoreditch

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. 

Bermondsey Larder, Tower Bridge

What: They say when one door closes another one opens, and that’s certainly true of the Bermondsey Larder, which was Robin Gill’s next venture following the closure of his popular Clapham restaurant The Dairy. This spot, a stone’s throw from Tower Bridge.Hidden in plain sight, Bermondsey Larder finds its home tucked in behind a co-working space. What it might lose in curb appeal, punters gain in exclusivity. When the weather warms up it can be hard to find a seat on one of the city’s best outdoor terraces, but here you can usually snaffle a spot. With comfy furnishings and a roomy terrace, there’s plenty of space here for a little R&R and the obliging staff are on hand to keep you plied with food and drink throughout your time. Start with one of the house cocktails and some of the excellent snacks (don’t skip the potato and rosemary bread) before moving onto larger plates like Swaledale bavette steak with chips, salad and a blue cheese butter or salt marsh lamb with sandy carrots, buckwheat and salsa verde.
Where: 153-157 Tower Bridge Road, SE1 3LW
Book now: Bermondsey Larder

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

Trivet, Bermondsey

What: When Jonny Lake and Isa Bal left The Fat Duck, there was never a question that they would be successful in their next venture. After a rocky pandemic period Trivet is finding it’s feet and then some - Lake’s wonderful cooking and Bal’s master sommelier knowledge combine to make this one of south London’s best restaurants. The outside terrace is a perfect place to enjoy a spot of lunch or dinner - Trivet runs a special terrace menu that includes a selection of easy snacking bites to enjoy alongside brilliant cocktails, or some inspired larger plates, including a 'hot tongue bun' of pressed tongue with anchovy mayo, pickles and blackcurrants. 
Where: 36 Snowsfields, SE1 3SU
Book now: Trivet

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

Darby’s, Vauxhall

What: Sitting under the watchful eye of the American Embassy in Vauxhall, Darby’s is an all-day restaurant and bakery serving up Robin Gill’s wonderfully honest food. Expect seafood and dry-aged meat as well as breakfast pastries and a whole range of delicious desserts. The sweeping indoor bar will also be serving the terrace this year, so make sure not to miss out on cocktails. The small waterfront terrace has been extended to accommodate twenty guests, and places are offered on a first come first serve basis – so it is great for an impromptu date.
Where: No 3 Viaduct Gardens, SW11 7AY
Book now: Darby's

Turnips, London Bridge

What: This fine-dining restaurant (which also has a casual small plates sidekick next door) has transformed its outdoor offering to give diners the chance to enjoy its unique food in a safe and comfortable space. The kitchen’s USP is that it uses the world-class produce from its Borough Market stall of the same name. This means veg is king here, with meat in the supporting role. Combinations include things like onion squash, walnuts and Iberico pork as well as borlotti beans with seaweed and shellfish
Where: 43 Borough Market, SE1 9AH
Book now: Turnips

Cinnamon Kitchen Battersea, Battersea

What: Part of the regenerated Battersea Power Station development, Cinnamon Kitchen Battersea is home to a riverside al fresco dining space, where guests can relax outdoors and take in the views of the Thames. Top shouts from the menu include king prawns in Bengali turmeric curry, and chargrilled achari cauliflower served with a hot garlic chutney.
Where: Arch 758 Battersea Power Station, SW8 5BN
Book now: Cinnamon Kitchen Battersea

Le Pont de la Tour, Tower Bridge

What: If you’re looking for an al fresco restaurant with wow-factor, Le Pont de la Tour is a worthy contender. Boasting riverside views and in a handy location, Le Pont de la Tour has legions of fans, and it’s not hard to see why. Tuck into a menu of French-leaning dishes while drinking in those hard-to-beat views of Tower Bridge.
Where: 36d Shad Thames, SE1 2YE
Book now: Le Pont de la Tour

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. From the terrace at the infamous Dinner by Heston to the green glade of the Ivy Chelsea Garden – these gorgeous spaces are the perfect spots to celebrate something special at (even if that’s just making it through Monday).

The Magazine, Hyde Park

What: Smack bang in the middle of Hyde Park, you don’t get many better views than from the terrace at The Magazine at the Serpentine. Not only is the setting good, but the menu also allows you to do good. On it you’ll find several ‘climavore’ dishes which include ingredients that have a regenerative effect on the environment they’re grown in. Kick off with Scottish mussels flavoured with vermouth, monk’s beard, fennel, and preserved lemon before moving onto cauliflower with smoked romesco sauce, white quinoa, wild garlic, and a walnut salsa.
Where: West Carriage Drive, W2 2AR
Book now: The Magazine

Mazi, Notting Hill

What: Notting Hill neighbourhood favourite Mazi is the place to go for Greek home cooking and hospitality. Gather as many mezze plates as you can hold, order the grilled octopus and grab a table in the beautiful courtyard before someone else does. You might have to get there early on a weekend because this tranquil Med paradise gets busy fast.
Where: 12-14 Hillgate Street, W8 7SR
Book now: Mazi

Dinings SW3, Knightsbridge

What: Where better to soak up that quintessential west London atmosphere than in heart of Knightsbridge at Dinings SW3's gorgeous hidden courtyard? The restaurant's small terrace area almost has the feeling of someone's back garden, with the added bonus being that you can enjoy a menu of top quality Japanese dishes here from ex-Nobu chef Masaki Sugisaki.
Where: Lennox Gardens Mews, SW3 2JH
Book now: Dinings SW3

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Knightsbridge

What: The garden terrace at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is separate from the main restaurant, but it's more than worth the extra minute's walk. A truly serene outdoor space, the terrace benefits from lush greenery, while the typically inventive menu and charming furniture remind you that you're in one of the most renowned restaurants in Knightsbridge. Serving a five-course menu, you can expect to try some of Dinner's signature dishes such as Meat Fruit.
Where: Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, SW1X 7LA
Book now: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea

What: This branch of The Ivy collection comes complete with a stunning garden which is replete with greenery and flowers. Sit outside in the fresh air to enjoy the please-all international menu, which features everything from a crispy duck salad with watermelon, to traditional fish and chips served with mushy peas and tartare sauce.
Where: 197 King’s Road, SW3 5ED
Book now: The Ivy Chelsea Garden

The River Café, Hammersmith

What: The long-standing River Cafe is legendary among London circles, known for its high-quality food and equally as high prices. The real jewel of the venue though is the expansive riverside terrace, which is filled with lush greenery and overlooks the Thames. Serving up rustic Italian dishes, some of our favourite orders include the ravioli with zucchini, buffalo ricotta and mint, and the oh-so-indulgent ‘chocolate nemesis’ for dessert.
Where: Thames Wharf, W6 9HA
Book now: The River Cafe

Villa di Geggiano, Chiswick

What: Villa di Geggiano is a Chiswick hidden gem which serves up a Tuscan menu, and the gorgeous terrace might lead you to believe you’ve actually escaped the capital. The kitchen here really shows its Italian prowess when it comes to the pasta. Options to try include potato gnocchi, wild boar pappardelle and lobster spaghetti.  
Where: 66-68 Chiswick High Road, W4 1SY
Book now: Villa di Geggiano

Looking for outdoor dining without the risk of the weather? We've rounded up the best igloos in London, and the best heated terraces in London too. Plus, there's a whole other world of options if love a slap up brunch on the weekend - check out London's best outdoor bottomless brunches.