Step outside. This week we’re on the lookout for London’s best al fresco dining. Fresh views, fresh ingredients, and fresh rosé spilled on your summer shoes. From cute courtyards to panoramic(ish) views, here are our favourite little outdoor-dining spots.
East:
Boundary (roof), Shoreditch, E2 7JE
Lovely people, panoramic views over London. Yes. Relaxed vibes and great food. Yes X 2. The grill here serves some of the best roasts in East London. But the locals know it so make sure you get here early to secure the best seats…
Pavilion Café, Victoria Park, E9 5DU
We love Victoria Park. Last time one of us was here the café was serenaded by a hour long flute class taking place round the corner, which was nice.
Central:
Bleeding Heart Yard, Farringdon, EC1N 8SJ. Book here with TopTable.
It’s pretty hard finding a nice outdoor area in the heart of the city. Cue – Bleeding Heart. It’s tucked away in a tiny court yard so give it a try if you’re in the neighbourhood. Make the most of the esquisit smelly cheeses if you’re going al fresco though – helps stave off the mosquitoes. And ladies, most likely, however.
Saint Christopher’s Place, Mayfair, W1U 1BF
We can’t really recommend any one place here, because this backstreet is full of the blighters. Their website gives a good run down of the various spots. This is as close as we get to the continental café culture square, just with less white linen jackets and peach shorts on show.
South:
Beauberry House, Dulwich, SE21 7AB
This smart Grade II-listed manor overlooks the gorgeous Belair Park. On a sunny day the terraces come into their own for a bit of alfresco, with sort of Anglo-Japanese fusion food. Certainly a very different place to take your someone special, and worth the day out if you’re not Dulwich way often (throw in a trip to the Horniman Museum and you literally can’t go wrong).
Northbank, Blackfriars, EC4V 3QH. Book here with TopTable.
The views from this place overlook Millennium Bridge and Tate Modern. Best if all, the menu celebrates all things local.
North:
Fredrick’s, Angel, N1 8EG
Fredrick’s main room is the garden room which has a grand glass roof. Semi-alfresco you could say. But if that disappoints you, simply make sure to choose the garden instead. This restaurant has 360 alfresco dining. Well done Fredrick!
West (ish):
Inn the Park, St James’ Park, SW1A 2BJ
Cake, tea and a lovely view of St James’ Park lake is our recommendation here. London we salute you.
Duke of York, Chelsea, SW3 4LY
Put on your smartest sandals on and get ready for some lovely, if pricey, contemporary Italian cuisine. But it’s impressive and that’s what you pay for. Fresh fresh fresh.
That’s this week’s round up. Follow us for more great little places at http://twitter.com/glpLondon
