Get ready for alfresco dining in London! With the sun shining (hopefully) and a chilled glass of wine in hand, what could be better than indulging in delicious food outdoors? London offers a fantastic selection of outdoor restaurants, each with its own unique charm. Let’s embark on a culinary journey, exploring some of the city’s best outdoor dining experiences.
Rooftop Cocktails and Iberian Flavors: Joia
Joia is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Nestled on the 15th and 16th floors of the Art’otel, next to Battersea Power Station, Joia boasts stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere. This Iberian restaurant and bar, designed by the renowned Russell Sage studio, blends contemporary art deco elements with a retro color palette. Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s heritage shines through in the menu, where Iberian and Mediterranean flavors are expertly combined with British produce. Head to the rooftop terrace for the ultimate alfresco dining experience, where you can savor small plates and cocktails while soaking up the sun. Grab a comfy sofa near the bar and let the delicious pan con tomate with ibérico ham melt in your mouth, perfectly complemented by a glass of sparkling Pere Ventura wine. For hotel guests, there’s also the added bonus of an infinity pool at the back of the terrace.
Verdant Rooftop Oasis: The Culpeper
The Culpeper is a hidden gem, offering a delightful escape from the bustling city streets. While the exterior might resemble a classic City of London pub, the rooftop unveils a completely different world. Step onto the rooftop terrace and be greeted by a lush greenhouse, where many of the kitchen’s ingredients are grown. It’s a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, seasonal food. Enjoy a short set menu with dishes like wild garlic hummus flatbread, herb-marinated pork steak with salsa verde, and a decadent salted caramel chocolate brownie. The Culpeper’s rooftop terrace is a tranquil oasis, perfect for admiring the city skyline and enjoying a delicious meal amidst the greenery.
Venetian Charm and Alfresco Delights: Sessions Arts Club
Sessions Arts Club, housed in England’s oldest courthouse, offers a unique blend of history and modern charm. Step inside and be transported to a world of Venetian-inspired cuisine and decadent design. Stripped-back plaster walls adorned with olive and rosemary trees create a serene backdrop, while tables dressed in white linens and topped with pastel-hued candlesticks add a touch of elegance. The small touches, like hand-illustrated menus, a pop-up poetry library, and regular art installations, make Sessions Arts Club a true creative hub. Head to the parasol-clad rooftop terrace for an idyllic lunch, where lime-green banquets and rattan chairs provide a comfortable and stylish setting.
A Modern Take on Greek Flavors: Mazi
Mazi is a Notting Hill gem, showcasing a modern interpretation of traditional Greek cuisine. Though small in size, Mazi’s ambition is big, and its contemporary approach to Greek flavors has earned it a loyal following. From house-baked breads to grilled aubergines and lobster orzo, the menu offers a tantalizing selection of dishes that pay homage to Greece’s culinary heritage. The back patio in the sunshine is a true escape, transporting you to a rugged Greek island. And if the ambiance isn’t enough, the expertly curated wine list, brimming with Grecian bottles, will complete your Greek culinary journey. Mazi’s commitment to authentic flavors has also led to outposts in Abu Dhabi and Morocco.
