The sun is shining, the days are longer and the overall mood of the city has been boosted tenfold, which can only mean one thing - it’s officially alfresco wining and dining season!
London on a whole has some of the world's best restaurants and bars on offer, and they only get better when paired with a warm summer day. As lovers of eating out every chance we get, we couldn’t help but put together our list of the very best stopping spots in the city for spring-infused indulgence - no gate-keeping here.
From rooftop terraces and special seasonal menus to cult classics and hidden haunts, bookmark this page for some truly magical places to explore this season. You can thank us later.
The Mandrake’s Jurema Terrace
© @themandrakehotelSet beneath a suspended garden of jasmine and passion flowers, The Mandrake’s Jurema Terrace is the place to head for open-air drinks this sunny season. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city center and indulge in this hidden haunt all evening long.
La Maison Ani
© @lamaisonanilondon
© @lamaisonanilondonOverlooking the beautiful Cadogan Gardens, La Maison Ani is an ode to slow paced French-inspired sipping and dining, but with a terrace twist right in the heart of Chelsea. Sharable French-Riviera inspired dishes are at the heart of everything La Maison Ani do, think creative salads, gourmet pizzas and caviar aplenty.
Gaia
Mayfair’s favourite elevated Greek-Mediterranean dining spot has officially opened its terrace for summer, and it’s not to be missed. Perfect for sunlit lunches, afternoon aperitifs, or warm summer evenings beneath the London sky, eat your way through the mouth-watering menu.
Aqua Neuva
© @aquanueva
© @aquanuevaExperience the richness of Spanish cuisine in Soho while looking out the streets below at Aqua Neuva. Set high above Regent Street, the sharing style restaurant and bar is the perfect resting place for catching some afternoon rays with friends.
Hector’s
© @hectorslondon
© @hectorslondonWine lovers, this one’s for you. Located in the idyllic De Beauvoir, Hector’s is an intimate stopping spot pouring wines by the glass (or bottles if that's your preference) with small plates to match. This tiny but mighty location is perfect for watching the world go by while catching up with the girls' post work.
Kaso
© @kasoshoreditch
© @kasoshoreditchLooking for an East London rooftop? Look no further than Kaso’s vibrant location in the sky. Blending the relaxed rhythm of the Mediterranean and Aegean regions with the energy of East London, expect top tier cocktails, an eclectic and electric atmosphere all week long. If you’re looking for something more, DJs spin every Saturday night.
Forza Wine at the National Theatre
© @forzawine
© @forzawineLocated in South Bank’s National Theatre, Forza Wine and its outdoor terrace has a view like no other. Serving seasonal Italian small plates and organic wines from around the globe, Forza is a laidback luxury in the heart of the capital.
Fleurie
© @fleurie.bermondsey
© @fleurie.bermondseyThere's something to be said about sitting out on a bustling street and watching the world go by, and Fleurie, on the iconic Bermondsey St is exactly that. A cosy French brasserie offering seasonal sharing plates, cocktails and wines, the whole idea is that you take a minute to slow down and indulge in one of life's greatest pleasures - good wine and great food.
Next Door Records Two
© @nextdoorrecords_
© @nextdoorrecords_For those who prefer their afternoon sip with a side of vinyl in the background, Next Door Records in Stoke Newington is for you. Technically a vinyl shop, music venue, cafe and bar hybrid, this cool-girl spot offers up great vibes all day and night long.
