The best restaurants for outdoor dining in London 2023

As summer arrives in London, it's the perfect time to experience the best of outdoor dining. From serene floral terraces to rooftop restaurants, riverside spots, and even charming pavement seating, there are endless options to enjoy the warm sunshine. Here are our top picks of the finest restaurants in the city for unforgettable al fresco dining experiences this summer.

 The Towpath Café

Image: The Towpath Café

#FLODown: Known for its wholesome dishes and unpretentious atmosphere, this treasured East London gem is the perfect place for relaxed dining in the sunshine. Towpath Café, appearing like an oasis along the Regent's Canal, operates out of a charming hole in the wall, showcasing how simplicity can result in exceptional meals. Despite being renowned for its delicious and straightforward dishes, this café exceeds expectations every time! Whether you chance upon it while strolling along the canal or purposefully seek it out, we guarantee you'll have one of the most memorable experiences and meals this summer.

Location: 42 De Beauvoir Cres, London N1 5RY. Website: towpathlondon.com

Alto by San Carlo at Selfridges

Image: Alto by San Carlo at Selfridges

#FLODown: Experience the ultimate al fresco dining at Alto by San Carlo, a rooftop oasis situated atop Selfridges. This hidden gem offers an enchanting ambiance and picturesque terrace, perfect for indulging in exquisite Italian cuisine. Whether you prefer a cosy lounge area for cocktails and snacks or a full-service restaurant with live entertainment, Alto provides the ideal setting. With its retractable roof, you can enjoy a pleasant dining experience year-round,.

Location: Alto by San Carlo Selfridges, 400 Oxford St, Marylebone, W1A 1AB. Website: sancarlo.co.uk.

Rochelle Canteen

Image: Rochelle Canteen. Photo by Emma Louise Pudge.

#FLODown: Tucked away in the old bike shed of Rochelle School in Shoreditch, Rochelle Canteen has solidified its reputation as a beloved dining destination in East London. Renowned for its relaxed atmosphere, this esteemed eatery invites guests to bask in the charm of its courtyard, offering a delightful alfresco dining experience during the summer months. With a keen focus on seasonal ingredients, Rochelle Canteen's menu embodies a celebration of flavours, showcasing carefully curated British dishes available for both lunch and dinner. Since its establishment in 2004, this cherished gem has won the hearts of locals and Londoners alike! Location: Rochelle Canteen, 16 Playground Gardens, London E2 7FA. Website: rochellecanteen.com.

Chiltern Firehouse

Image: Chiltern Firehouse. Courtesy of Chiltern Firehouse

#FLODown: Chiltern Firehouse, situated in the vibrant neighbourhood of Marylebone, features a charming outdoor terrace adorned with tasteful monochrome decor, elegant marble-topped tables, and twinkling lights, creating the perfect ambiance. Guests can relish a delightful weekend brunch, indulging in Chiltern's famous fluffy pancake stacks and a tempting selection of other tasty dishes, including their mouth-watering oysters and an excellent selection of cocktails! Renowned for its appeal to al fresco diners, Chiltern Firehouse upholds its reputation with a stylish courtyard that caters to Londoners throughout the year.

Location: Chiltern Firehouse, 1 Chiltern Street, Marylebone, W1U 7PA. Website: chilternfirehouse.com.

The Orangery at Number Sixteen

Image: The Orangery at Number Sixteen. Image Courtesy of Number Sixteen Hotel, Firmdale Hotels

#FLODown: Located in the heart of South Kensington, The Orangery and Garden at Number Sixteen offers a peaceful oasis, providing an ideal setting for drinks or intimate dinners. The menu features a delightful blend of accessible British and European dishes. The charming tree-filled garden, adorned with pastel green furniture, invites guests to unwind and enjoy a refreshing meal in a tranquil atmosphere.

Location: The Orangery at Number Sixteen, 16 Sumner Place, South Kensington, London SW7 3EG. Website: firmdalehotels.com

Luca Restaurant

Image: Luca Restaurant. Courtesy of Luca

#FLODown: Luca in Clerkenwell boasts a charming outdoor terrace surrounded by olive trees and jasmine. This highly regarded Italian restaurant offers a Mediterranean escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you visit for lunch or dinner, Luca's terrace provides an intimate setting to enjoy the delicious Italian-inspired menu. Don't forget to try their incredibly popular parmesan fries, widely regarded as the best in the city.

Location: 88 St John Street, EC1M 4EH. Website: luca.restaurant

Toklas Restaurant

Image: Toklas Restaurant. Courtesy of Toklas

#FLODown: Toklas is a beloved restaurant renowned for its simplistic yet exquisite cuisine, particularly its exceptional breads and pastries. Situated discreetly on a side street just behind 180 The Strand, the terrace at Toklas provides a sense of tranquillity and spaciousness, making it an ideal place for enjoying lunches, dinners, or post-work drinks. The menu at Toklas is inspired by Mediterranean flavours and emphasises the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, which are carefully sourced from trusted suppliers on a daily basis.

Location: Toklas, 1 Surrey Street, WC2R 2ND. Website: toklaslondon.com

Scott’s Mayfair and Richmond

Image: Scott’s Mayfair. Courtesy of Scott’s

#FLODown: Scott's offers two sought-after outdoor dining experiences in Mayfair and Richmond, specialising in seafood dishes. The Mayfair terrace provides a sophisticated atmosphere, favoured by celebrities and Londoners alike. The extended terrace features elegant tables surrounded by olive trees, creating the perfect setting for serving caviar, dressed crab, and grilled lobster. In Richmond, guests can enjoy their classic seafood cuisine on the outdoor terrace with stunning river views, making it a delightful spot for riverside dining.

Location: Scott’s Mayfair, 20 Mount Street, Mayfair, W1K 2HE. Website: scotts-restaurant.com. Location: Scott’s Richmond, 4 Whittaker Avenue, Richmond, London TW9 1TH. Website: scotts-richmond.com

Jurema Terrace

Image: Jurema Terrace. Mandrake Hotel, June 2023. © MTotoe 

#FLODown: Jurema, the luxurious terrace at the Mandrake Hotel, is a stunning urban oasis adorned with lush hanging greenery, providing a mesmerising escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Oxford Street. Bursting with foliage and featuring trendy furnishings, including cosy rattan armchairs, the laid-back atmosphere invites guests to unwind and enjoy refreshing summer ethnobotanical cocktails and South American-inspired modern European small plates from YOPO restaurant. Be sure not to miss their exclusive Veuve Clicquot set menu, available from Wednesday to Saturday, offering a delightful three-course meal for £25 per person, accompanied by a glass of Veuve Clicquot.

Location: Jurema Terrace, Mandrake Hotel, 20-21 Newman Street, W1T 1PG. Website: themandrake.com

Circolo Popolare

Image: Circolo Popolare, Fitzrovia. © MTotoe

#FLODown: By now, you must have heard of the lavish restaurants sprouting up across London courtesy of the renowned Big Mamma Group. Among their interesting establishments, Circolo Popolare stands out, enchanting diners with its extravagant interior and a serene outdoor terrace discreetly nestled off Oxford Street. The terrace, adorned with abundant foliage, stylish furnishings, and delightful bunting, creates an irresistible ambiance. Treat yourself to their mouthwatering Carbonara, served up in a pecorino wheel, savour their authentic Neapolitan pizzas, and be sure to save room for their famous lemon meringue pie with a marshmallow topping, the biggest you will have ever seen!

Location: Circolo Popolare,  40-41 Rathbone Place, W1T 1HX. Website: bigmammagroup.com

Petersham Nurseries Restaurant

Image: Petersham Nurseries, Richmond. © MTotoe

#FLODown: Petersham Nurseries Restaurant is a haven of beauty throughout the year, but it truly comes alive in the vibrant spring and summer months. Step into their magical outdoor terrace, nestled within a charming greenhouse adorned with blossoming bougainvillea. Indulge in the delightful menu of Italian-inspired dishes, perfectly complemented with a glass of wine. Whether you're enjoying a late lunch or an early dinner, Petersham Nurseries offers an idyllic setting for outdoor dining. Make sure to also explore the nursery, where you can discover new pieces to enhance your own outdoor space.

Location: Petersham Nurseries Café, Off Church Lane, Petersham Road, Richmond TW10 7AB.Website: petershamnurseries.com

Double Standard

Image: Double Standard. Photo credit Charlie McKay

#FLODown: Double Standard is a stylish and vibrant restaurant nestled on the first floor of The Standard hotel. With its distinctive retro design, it provides a casual and inviting ambiance for drinks and dining al fresco. Indulge in finger-licking food, complemented by cool cocktails and a fine wine selection. Don't miss their legendary bottomless brunch on Sundays, featuring a variety of delicious dishes and the option to build your own Bloody Marys or enjoy free-flowing fizz.

Location: The Standard Hotel, 10 Argyle Street, Kings Cross, WC1H 8EG. Website: standard hotels.com

The Ivy Chelsea Garden

Image: The Ivy Chelsea Gardens, Image courtesy of The Ivy Collective

#FLODown: The Ivy Chelsea Garden is a pioneer of al fresco dining in London, featuring a spacious terrace bursting with flowers and foliage, elegant furnishings, fountain and a cosy fire pit. Whether it's a leisurely brunch, afternoon tea, or a special celebration, this al fresco paradise offers an unforgettable experience. Don't miss their tempting Salted Caramel espresso martini from the extensive cocktail menu!

Location:  The Ivy Chelsea Garden, 195 -197 King's Road, Chelsea, London, SW3 5EQ. Website: theivychelseagarden.com

Seabird Rooftop Restaurant

Image: Seabird Rooftop Restaurant, Hoxton Hotel Southwark. Image Courtesy of Seabird

#FLODown: Situated on the 14th floor of the Hoxton Hotel in Southwark, Seabird is a sophisticated seafood restaurant that offers a glamorous dining experience with a touch of Spanish and Portuguese flair. Delight in sumptuous seafood platters, and tantalising dishes while taking in the breathtaking city views from its swanky terrace, complete with palm trees and stylish furnishings. Regardless of the weather, the terrace provides the perfect ambiance with heaters and a retractable awning for a cosy setting during the colder months. Be sure to take advantage of their Oyster happy hour from Monday to Thursday, where you can savour fresh oysters for just £2 and enjoy delightful martinis for £7 between 3-7pm.

Location: Seabird, 40 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 8NY. Website: seabirdlondon.com

The Culpeper Regen Rooftop

Image: The Regen Rooftop at The Culpeper

#FLODown: The Regen Rooftop at The Culpeper pub is a hidden gem tucked away in East London, offering a unique rooftop experience with its own bar, stunning views of the Square Mile skyline, and a cosy greenhouse. It's the perfect spot to unwind, socialise, and savour East London's vibrant atmosphere. This summer, indulge in their inviting set menu priced at £35 per person, featuring delightful sharing plates like smoked red hummus and crispy kale-topped mackerel, followed by tempting desserts like a refreshing lemon verbena posset.

Location: Regen Rooftop at The Culpeper, 40 Commercial Street, London E1 6LP. Website: theculpeper.com