Outdoor Restaurants in London : Al Fresco Dining 

Discover the finest outdoor dining restaurants London has to offer. As the weather warms up and the sun graces the city’s streets, there’s no better time to indulge in the al fresco delights that London’s culinary scene has to offer. From enchanting rooftop terraces to charming garden hideaways, London boasts a plethora of outdoor dining experiences that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and captivate your senses. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner for two, a relaxed brunch with friends, or a memorable celebration, the city’s diverse culinary landscape has something to offer every discerning palate. Here are the best outdoor restaurants in London. 

Related: Best Riverside Dining in London 

 

1Wagtail London, City 

Wagtail London

Wagtail London best outdoor restaurant

Split over two floors, Wagtail is one of the best outdoor restaurants in London, with two private terraces, an elegant fully heated and covered rooftop terrace bar, and an exclusive private dining room in the cupola, crowning the building. Located high above the City of London this al fresco spot in London offers spectacular views of the iconic London landmarks, such as Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard, Gherkin, and the Walkie Talkie Building.

Wagtail’s menu focuses on classic dishes, profiling the best of British produce, provenance, and seasonality. From lunch to late-night suppers to business dinners Wagtail’s beautiful dining room and outdoor sining provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Every weekend, Wagtail serves one of London’s greatest bottomless brunches, with free-flowing wine, prosecco, and cocktails.

 

 More Info: Wagtaillondon.com

 

 

 

2Alto by San Carlo, Selfridges

al fresco dining london alto san carlo selfridges

Transporting you from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street to the stunning Italian countryside, Alto by San Carlo is one of London’s most iconic dining experiences. At home, on the rooftop terrace of Selfridges, Alto by San Carlo is an idyllic outdoor setting offering luxury al fresco dining in the sun, under the stars or under cover if typical British weather should appear. The escape to Alto by San Carlo begins at the exclusive lift within Selfridges.

The venue could not be more exquisitely designed with the sky-high hangout spot decorated with a canopy of florals, stunning foliage arrangements and lined with citrus trees. Boasting a glorious Italian menu, Alto by San Carlo’s impeccable cuisine is made up of delicious dishes created from only the freshest ingredients.  Alto is open until late seven days a week, ensuring the good times continue long after the store has closed

 

 More Info: Sancarlo.co.uk

 

 

 

3Ham Yard Courtyard, Soho 

al fresco dining london ham yard

Quietly nestled behind the bright lights and bustle of Piccadilly Circus, Ham Yard Hotel’s courtyard restaurant is a hidden gem in the heart of London offering the perfect escape from the busy streets of Soho. As one of the best outdoor restaurant in London it offers a spacious, elegant vibe. Centered around a phenomenal bronze sculpture of Tony Cragg and is pleasantly shaded by 30-foot oak trees.

Bookings can be made for both indoor and outdoor courtyard dining. Serving up mouth-watering dishes and exquisite desserts, Ham Yard Courtyard is a magnificent dining destination whether you attend for a long lunch, quick snack or the establishment’s award-winning afternoon tea.

 

 More Info: Firmdalehotels.com

 

 

4The Terrace at The MAINE Mayfair

The MAINE Mayfair london

 Directly accessed via Hanover Square or New Bond Street, The MAINE’s terrace is a hidden gem in the heart of Mayfair. Enveloped by foliage, this tranquil terrace will immediately transport you from the hustle and bustle of the city. As one of the best outdoor restaurants in London, The terrace is a beautiful tucked away spot perfect for drawn out summer afternoons, with a terrace menu including oysters, shellfish, tartars and crudos and a fully stocked bar. The ultimate glam terrace to be spotted at this Summer.

Atmospheric by day and seductive by night, this ‘all seasons’ sanctuary is fully enclosed to protect you from the elements and offers outdoor dining all year round with rain proof windows, cosy pashminas and powerful heaters to help you shake off the English winter. Once the original stables of the house that backed onto Dering Yard, now named Medici Courtyard, the rust mohair booths, bamboo chairs and fresh linen banquettes immediately set the tone; New England heritage meets a modern take on a traditional British garden.

 

 More Info: Themainemayfair.com

 

 

5Toklas, Temple 

Toklas london

Toklas

Toklas is the first restaurant venture of Amanda Sharp and Matthew Slotover, the founders of Frieze art fair and magaizne. Located down a side street just behind 180 The Strand, Toklas feels like you’ve just discovered a true hidden gem in the capital. As one of the best outdoor restauarnts in London, it boasts a large terrace with covered seating, yet you are above street level and can see everything going on, on the street from above. The menu is Mediterranean-inspired and changes on a weekly basis to ensure they make  the most of whatever’s in season, with dishes based on the principle that wonderful ingredients.

 

 More Info: Toklaslondon.com

 

 

 

6The Petersham at Petersham Nurseries, Covent Garden

Petersham Nursery

Under a magnificent canopy of roses and wisteria, Petersham Nurseries in Covent Garden provides a stunning location for al fresco dining in London. Famous as a nursery and garden shop, Petersham Nurseries draws inspiration from within the family business using only seasonal produce and the freshest ingredients to pack the phenomenal menu with flavour.

Serving lunch and dinner, The Petersham at Petersham Nurseries has a slow food philosophy that is reflected within the Italian-inspired dishes of gourmet cuisine. The elegant al a carte restaurant spills out from the Grade II listed building which houses the nursery offering both an oasis of calm and magnificent architecture. It’s worth mentioning that Petersham Nurseries also features a delightful teahouse, where you can enjoy a selection of teas, cakes, and pastries. The teahouse provides a charming setting for a leisurely afternoon treat amidst the enchanting surroundings.

 

 More Info: Petershamnurseries.com

 

 

 

7Stanley’s, Chelsea

Stanley’s Chelsea

Stanley’s best outdoor restaurant chelsea

Just off the King’s Road, Stanley’s provides Chelsea with a secret garden with a relaxing courtyard bar and restaurant inspired by the English countryside. The relaxed, contemporary style of the restaurant comes from the unique union of classic elegance and rustic design creating a luxurious but homely atmosphere where guests feel comfortable.

The restaurant and courtyard bar is a great spot to eat, drink and relax. The courtyard is the perfect place to enjoy this lovely weather for lunch, drinks, dinner or private dining events. Proud of their sustainability efforts with reclaimed woodwork within the design and furniture of the space whilst the kitchen focuses on seasonal produce that showcases the best of British. This experience of al fresco dining in London feels like a world away from the busy city streets just outside with the atmosphere of an elegant, European break within the heart of the British capital.

 

 More Info: Stanleyschelsea.co.uk

 

 

8Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury

Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury

Hidden away from the commotion of Tottenham Court Road, Dalloway Terrace is a sublime outdoor restaurant in the heart of Bloomsbury. The terrace is adorned with an abundance of flowers, lush greenery, and stylish furnishings, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s a perfect oasis for al fresco dining and socializing. The terrace is also adorned with twinkling lights, creating a romantic and intimate ambiance for a special dinner or a celebratory dinner.

 Inspired by the 20th century literary and artistic ambiance of Bloomsbury. Dalloway Terrace is one of the most sought after outdoor dining restaurants in London, whether its for brunch, lunch or dinner. The menu features a great balance between meat, fish and vegan meal options whilst the all day menu means that no matter what time of day you visit, you can enjoy favourite dishes.

 

More Info: Dallowayterrace.com

 

Related: Best Rooftop Bars in London

 

9Luca, Farringdon 

Luca

At Luca, Italian elegance meets outdoor dining. The outdoor dining is an extension of the renowned restaurant Luca, which has recently recieved its first Michelin star. The setting is uniquely intimate, it is elegantly sheltered from the elements, bright and welcoming during the day or candlelit and cosy at night. The exposed brick terrace with a fireplace completely elevate the outdoor space. The menus reflect the seasons, serving the finest traditional Italian pasta dishes alongside a variety of meat and seasonal seafood. Luca is a hotspot in London right now, booking in advance in highly recommended.

 

More Info: Luca.restaurant

 

 

 

10Devonshire Terrace, Liverpool Street

devonshire terrace al fresco dining london

Protecting diners from the elements under a soaring domed glass roof, Devonshire Terrace offers a vast space for al fresco dining in London with no need to wait for the warmer weather. Part of the renowned Drake and Morgan collection of bars and restaurants, Devonshire Terrace provides an informal and incredible dining experience with impeccable service and mouth-watering dishes such as crayfish linguine, gnocchi mac ‘n’ cheese and masala spiced chicken. The venue is also popular for offering an extensive events calendar with disco bottomless brunch and cabaret dinners just some of the events filling up Devonshire Terrace’s diary.

 

More Info: Drakeandmorgan.co.uk

 

 

 

11The Happenstance Laurent-Perrier Champagne Terrace, St Paul’s

The Happenstance Laurent-Perrier Champagne Terrace

Escape to the French coast with leading City bar, The Happenstance by Drake & Morgan created in partnership with luxury champagne brand, Laurent-Perrier. The all-weather Laurent-Perrier Champagne Terrace has been dressed top-to-toe with blush florals, twinkling lights and pretty-in-pink décor for the ultimate Instagrammable backdrop.

Enter under a cresting wave of pink foliage before sipping on a glass of La Cuvée or Cuvée Rosé Champagne by Laurent-Perrier, plus a Tarragon French 75 cocktail with La Cuvée Champagne, tarragon and raspberry. The menu also has fresh strawberries with champagne cream for a touch of sparkle.

 

More Info: Drakeandmorgan.co.uk

 

 

 

12Garden Terrace at The Hari, Belgravia

hari al fresco dining in london

Belgravia’s The Hari hotel offers an intimate garden terrace that has been transformed into an Amalfi-inspired oasis. The intimate terrace has a design reminiscent of paradise, bursting with flowers and a cool, contemporary décor that reflects the hotel but contrasts the traditional architecture of the postcode.

The Hari Garden Terrace is the perfect location for afternoon aperitivos or long, lazy lunches and informal suppers with friends in London. An elegant suntrap on warm days and a cosy retreat in winter, The Hari Garden Terrace can be enjoyed all year round, courtesy of a retractable roof and our exciting all day dining menu and cocktail list.

 

More Info: Thehari.com

 

 

 

13Cavo London, Tottenham Court Road 

Cavo London terrace

Cavo is the newest culinary addition to the Now building in Tottenham Court Road. Escape the busy streets of London into this hidden oasis of calm and tranquillity on the fourth floor terrace. As one of the best outdoor restaurants in London, it has a exclusive and intimate vibe and boasts picturesque views of the London skyline. Cavo’s alfresco terrace is ideal for any kind of occasion, from breakfast, lunch, dinner to pre-theatre. The vibrant menu features fresh, seasonal vegetables, sensational meat, the abundance of seafood or plentiful use of fresh herbs which characterise Mediterranean food.

 

More Info: Cavorestaurant.com

 

 

14Drake & Morgan at King’s Cross

Drake & Morgan at King's Cross

Get whisked away to the Neptunia Nautical Terrace – an ocean-inspired oasis at Drake & Morgan King’s Cross created in partnership with leading gin brand Hendrick’s. Lounge amongst a dreamy haven filled with an abundance of seashells, driftwood and faux seagrass, while enjoying limited-edition tipples including a Neptunia Collins, a Cucumber Lemonade and Curious Margarita.

Hendrick’s Neptunia Gin bottles the magic of the sea and is one of the latest creations from Master Distiller Ms. Lesley Gracie’s Cabinet of Curiosities, blending refreshing Scottish coastal botanicals. Sure to give you another dose of vitamin sea, feast on new sea-inspired dishes including British calamari and Brixham crab arancini.

 

More Info: Drakeandmorgan.co.uk

 

 

 

15Jurema at The Mandrake, Fitzrovia

al fresco dining london the Mandrake Cabanas png

Jurema at The Mandrake

Located on the first-floor, Jurema sits next the YOPO restaurant in the five-star hotel – The Mandrake. Jurema is an total urban oasis, you will be surrounded by a hanging garden of suspended jasmine and passionflower and overlooking the Courtyard with its soaring Tasmanian Ferns. It is a magnificent sanctuary of laid-back affair, the decor itself and the jungle like atmosphere alone make it worthwhile a visit.

Serving up an impressive cocktail menu, moreish snacks and South American inspired dishes from YOPO, it is an open-air bar unlike any other in London. As one of the best outdoor restauarnts in London, the terrace is one of the largest at any London hotel, a charming glasshouse fill with both medicinal and botanical plants is located just above and can also be booked for private dining. Visit their Sunday brunch and enjoy a menu curated by Executive Chef George Scott-Toft, featuring live a DJ set and ethnobotanical cocktails.

 

More Info: Themandrake.com

 

 

 

16Orrery, Marylebone

Orrery Marylebone

The best kept secret on Marylebone High Street, Orrery’s rooftop terrace is one of the best outdoor restaurants in London. Located on the first floor of a converted stable block overlooking St. Marylebone Church Gardens whilst the venue itself is lined with olive and lavender trees. It is a place of sanctuary where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the busy street below. Be transported to Southern France whilst enjoying a drink and light meal in the sunshine or under the stars. 

 The restaurant has been awarded three AA rosettes for incredible dining whilst the head chef has a Michelin-starred pedigree. Enjoy the a la carte menu on the terrace with tables available on a first-come first-served basis, throughout the colder months they have heaters and coverings to keep you warm and cozy.

 

More Info: Orrery-restaurant.co.uk

 

17Pantechnicon, Belgravia

Pergola On The Wharf Rooftops in london

Pergola On The Wharf Rooftops in london

Tucked away in the heart of Belgravia, The Roof Garden at Pantechnicon offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of London’s streets. The spectacular rooftop in London is a true gastronomic and mixology haven, offering the opportunity to savour delicious food and drinks while surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking city views.

Located on the top floor of the Pantechnicon building, which was originally built in the 19th century. Following years of vacancy, the building has undergone a transformation into a magnificent five-story of fashion, design, and dining hub. And The Roof Garden is the jewel of the transformed building. Read more here

 

More Info:Pantechnicon.com

 

 

 

18Scott’s, Mayfair 

Scotts mayfair

London’s neighbourhood of Mayfair is dripping with glamour, one outdoor restauarnt that is agin and again amongst the favouriate is the Scott’s. Dining at Scott’s is a luxury affair, as one of Mayfair’s famous celebrity haunt, Scott’s sees a number of household names crossing over its threshold and is the place to both see and be seen.

The venue’s street-side terrace is a decadent destination for outdoor dining in London with a chic design and alluring atmosphere. The seasonal menu offers an incredible selection of dishes mostly focusing on fish and seafood with meat and game options also scattered throughout the menu. For the ultimate luxury dining experience, oysters and lobster complemented with a glass of fizz will top off this elegant occasion.

 

More Info: Scotts-restaurant.com

 

 

 

19Roka Terrace, Canary Wharf 

Roka Terrace Canary Warf

Bursting with life and colour, Canary Wharf’s Roka Terrace overlooks Canada Square Park and is a popular summer dining destination with seasonal pop-ups and al fresco entertainment. With a backdrop of sleek London office towers, Roka’s location provides incredible views, especially at night with the glistening lights of the city.

Serving contemporary Japanese robatayaki dishes, Roka offers a beautiful menu of dishes inspired by Japanese and Asian cuisine. The menu features a fine selection of seafood with legendary sushi platters and incredible black miso cod favourites with regulars. Meanwhile, the sake sommelier will ensure your meal is complemented with a liquid taste of Asia.

 

More Info: Rokarestaurant.com

 

 

 

20The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea 

ivy chelsea al fresco dining in london

The Ivy Chelsea Garden best outdoor restaurant

As one of London’s most well known restaurants, it is no surprise that The Ivy Chelsea Garden has one of the best outdoor restaurants in London. Located on Chelsea’s famous King’s Road, The Ivy’s outdoor terrace is bursting with magnificent florals, unique foliage arrangements and beautiful antique décor making it one of the prettiest terraces to enjoy al fresco dining in London. On the terrace you can indulge in the restaurant’s signature menu packed with seasonal specials and award-winning dishes accompanied by an extensive drinks list.

 

More Info: Theivychelseagarden.com

 

 

21Chicama, Chelsea

Chicama Terrace

The stylish sister to Peruvian favourite Pachamama in Marylebone, Chelsea’s Chicama serves up a wealth of colour and flavour with their meat-free menu. Exploring the coastal cooking traditions of Peru, the beautifully presented dishes pack a bold South American twist. With a mixture of exquisite seafood and vegetable options, the menu has an offering for every appetite whilst the tasting menu allows diners to experience the best of Chicama. Best enjoyed on the restaurant’s charming al fresco terrace, Chicama offers an incredible venue for outdoor dining in London and is a great place to enjoy a meal on a sunny afternoon in Chelsea.

 

More Info: Chicamalondon.com

 

 

 

22Allegra, Stratford

 

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 The intimate, outdoor dining space of Allegra’s terrace is at home in one of East London’s most striking buildings. Located on the 7th floor of The Stratford, the terrace overlooks Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park whilst offering stunning views of the London skyline. With cedar pathways, flowing water features and a meadow of wildflowers, the terrace offers the open-air pop-up of Happy Burger providing relaxed outdoor dining that complements a casual menu. The menu is compact whilst offering great variety with burgers that can be customised to suit individual tastes and flavour preferences.

 

More Info: Allegra-restaurant.com

 

 

23Boundary, Shoreditch

Rooftop bars in London Boundary Shoreditch

Boundary

Located atop the Boundary Hotel in Shoreditch, the rooftop bar features a large outdoor terrace and glass Orangery restaurant offering panoramic views of Shoreditch, the City and East London. The Boundary Rooftop is the perfect destination to soak up the sunshine, catch the sunset or gaze at the stars in the stylish surroundings.

During the spring and summer months the Rooftop Bar & Terrace becomes a Mediterranean oasis with the terrace dominated by two illuminated olive trees, seasonal plants and flowers. The kitchen, led by Italian head chef Roberto Branca brings Mediterranean flavours with grilled meats and fish cooked over charcoal, alongside fresh and simple salads, charcuterie and seafood, all washed down with ice-cold Provencal rose.

 

More Info: Boundary.london

 

 

24Coq D’argent, The City

Coq D’argent london

Coq D’argent is open all year round. It offers a relaxing atmosphere and undeniably one of the best views of the city. In case it rains, the rooftop is covered and heating is on standby for those chilly London nights. Whatever the weather, you can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and panoramic views of our covered and heated rooftop terraces while indulging in our fine selection of wines, spirits and classic French dishes.

 

More Info: Coqdargent.co.uk