The best outdoor eating spots in London
Our Instagram feeds seem to quickly be filling up with friends enjoying London’s finest outdoor bars and restaurants. Busy city life in London isn’t necessarily always compatible with outdoor living, but as soon as the sun comes out we’re all desperate to find the perfect al fresco spot to enjoy a post-work drink or weekend brunch. So where are these outdoor hotspots you cry? We’ve hand picked five of the city’s best for you to try this summer, so you don’t end up spilling out on another pub pavement.
With walls lined with pastel flowers, this outdoor terrace couldn’t be more quintessentially English if it tried. Set in historic Bloomsbury, the heart of London’s literary centre, the indoor-outdoor space was named after one of Virginia Woolf’s most famous characters. This secluded secret garden is a haven in the bustling centre of London and makes an elegant choice for a summer lunch or afternoon gin and tonic.
A very reasonably priced menu, themed ‘Paradise Pods’ just for the summer and cocktail pitchers? Who are we to say no. With dishes focussed on thoughtful, unfussy, European food, a huge range of summer drinks, and an interior designed to make the most of their river view, the tower bridge location of Coppa Club is surely a no-brainer.
This independent bar and restaurant in West London is pretty stunning, with an open plan, bright white decor that looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a trendy L.A. neighbourhood. And, of course, it boasts a fabulous terrace. We recommend taking a few friends and diving into the sharing dishes from the kitchen focussed on well-sourced ingredients, beautifully complimented by their wine list.
With unbeatable city views, this South London hot spot has been around since 2009, and they’re nailing the whole experience. The rooftop is huge, so even on it’s busiest days you’re sure to find a spot on the benches that see thousands of visitors come through each summer. Frank’s Cafe is part of Bold Tendencies, a community interest company that operates a world-class arts and cultural programme, so it’s worth checking out what else is on if you’re heading there.
Found on London’s eternally classy King’s Road, The Ivy Chelsea Garden is peak Instagram-worthy alfresco dining in London. Open for breakfast from 8am all the way through to dinner, this is perfect for a visit once you’ve shopped your way up the street. It’s also walking distance from the Saatchi Gallery, so when you really are about to drop, The Ivy in Chelsea is ideal for some outdoor rest and relaxation – with a ‘garden bellini’ in hand.
