Whether you’re looking for a special first date spot or an Instagrammable spot to catch up with the girls, outdoor drinking spots are a great choice. There’s nothing better after a lovely meal than enjoying a refreshing drink outdoors.
Especially in a post-Covid world, a little fresh air while you enjoy a few glasses is an added bonus! We’ve put together a list of 42 restaurants that offer beaut outdoor drinking spaces.
Table of Contents
Our Criteria
It’s safe to say that there are a lot of restaurants with outdoor drinking in London. And because everyone’s looking for something different when it comes to their perfect day or evening out eating and drinking, we’ve ranked each of our suggestions based on what you’re looking for. The criteria we have used for this post is as follows:
Price
We’ll let you know how pricey each place is
Food
If you’re looking to dine before drinks or nibbles while you sip
Atmosphere
From music to decor, the vibes have to be right
Customer reviews
Average ratings based on Google and TripAdvisor
Our Top 10
Restaurant | Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | |
Boundary Shoreditch | |||||
Primos Mexican Cantina | |||||
The Lighterman | |||||
Seabird | |||||
MAZI, Notting Hill | |||||
Alto by San Carlo | |||||
The Ivy Chelsea Garden | |||||
Madison St. Paul’s | |||||
Drake And Morgan At King's Cross | |||||
The Nest at Treehouse |
Restaurants with Outdoor Drinking in Central London
We’ll start central, covering the best in outdoor dining from Soho to the City.
Mo Diner
Determined to keep diner culture alive, the founders of Mo Diner created an old school American diner with a twist. You can enjoy their Middle-Eastern flavoured diner classics on their beautiful terrace in the heart of Mayfair, and a few cheeky cocktails after too! Be aware though – this cute little spot is first come first served, so might be better for an impromptu date.
Aqua Kyoto
If you’re looking for a super special (and posh!) place to take your partner for the evening, Aqua Kyoto is one of the best restaurants with outdoor drinking in London! Part of the iconic Aqua group, this venue pays homage to the innovative and delicious cuisine of Japan.
A short stroll from Oxford Circus station, this restaurant is the perfect place to walk by after a long day shopping. The outside terrace operates a walk-in only policy, so you’ll be lucky to nab a spot at this exclusive bar!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
YOPO at The Mandrake
Yopo is the South American-inspired restaurant nestled inside the Mandrake Hotel in Fitzrovia, and boy is it a beauty. Uniting flavours from the likes of Peru, Chile and Argentina, the menu is as colourful as the decor.
Their candlelit, leaf-filled terrace will transport you and your beau from the West End to the lush tropics of the Amazon, whilst you sip on innovative cocktails and share delicious tapas.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
The Dorchester Rooftop
Atop the Dorchester Hotel lies the Dorchester Rooftop, a luxurious rooftop bar and grill that was actually repurposed from a suite balcony in response to social distancing requirements! Although a little pricey, the standout grill dishes, live music and views over Hyde Park make this spot well-worth it for a lavish evening drink or two.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
7 |
Madison St. Paul’s
The rooftop bar at the Madison is renowned for its unbeatable views of St Paul’s, lively atmosphere and colourful cocktail menu. For a classic London outdoor drinking rooftop experience, head over to the top floor of One New Change. Plus, beforehand you can enjoy New York’s finest grill and steak dishes in the restaurant below.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
The Nest at Treehouse
With 360 degree views of London’s skyline, the wraparound terrace bar at The Nest in the Treehouse Hotel is unbeatable for a night under the stars surrounded by nature. The menu boasts nature-themed cocktails and locally-sourced bar bites, and is beautifully decorated both inside and out. Plus, if you’re visiting the Nest in the colder months, don’t worry – the terrace is heated and blankets are provided!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
Coqbull Soho
If you’re looking for an evening of outdoor drinking in London with a bit of energy, then Coqbull Soho’s the place to be. And with a mouthwatering menu of all things chicken (don’t worry, there’s something for the vegans too), there’s more than one thing to love about Coqbull. In the heart of the bustling Piccadilly Circus, sip on fun cocktails whilst you spend the evening people watching and enjoying live music from inside the venue.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Alto by San Carlo at Selfridges
You wouldn’t expect the rooftop of a department to boast a terrace as stunning as this, but this is Selfridge’s we’re talking about! The Alto by San Carlo is an authentic Italian rooftop ristorante that belongs to the prestigious San Carlo group. From their menu to elegant decor, every aspect of this venue truly makes you feel like you’re sipping your Aperol in the Italian sunshine. The perfect place to wine and dine your significant other come rain or shine – Alto’s terrace has a retractable roof too!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
Aqua Nueva
The Spanish-inspired cousin of Aqua Kyoto, which we covered earlier, Aqua Nueva brings the suave Mediterranean atmosphere to the West End. Their Spanish tapas and small plates can be enjoyed in the luxurious restaurant or out on the sun-soaked (weather permitting, of course) terrace. As you’d expect from the Aqua group, it’s a little expensive, but if you’re looking for that exclusive vibe or want to celebrate an important occasion, treat yourself to a visit here.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
Outdoor Drinking in North London
Whether you’re a North London local or want to explore more of this underrated area of the capital, there are plenty of outdoor drinking and dining spots to find this side of London.
Hoppers Kings Cross
Just outside of one of London’s busiest travel hubs, lies a hidden gem straight from South Asia. Hoppers serves up some of the best in South Indian and Tamil cuisine, plus creative cocktails made from local spirit, arrack to enjoy. Their small but oh-so pretty terrace is the perfect place to enjoy your meal and a few drinks under the stars and twinkling fairy lights.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
Hicce Coal Drops Yard
Part of the new swanky Kings Cross development, Hicce offers up the best in modern British cuisine, complete with a simple yet elegant outside area perfectly positioned to enjoy the vibe of Coal Drops Yard. Their extensive wine list will keep you busy and is great if your partner loves a unique glass of vino, and they serve up a mean cocktail using Ketel One vodka.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
The Chapel Bar Islington
The Chapel Bar is an utterly elegant bar and terrace in leafy Islington that boasts multiple outdoor drinking spots serving up Italian classics and a cocktail menu inspired by the taste of Sicily. Relax in the hedged-trimmed garden area or settle in with your drink on the main terrace – a safe bet if the British weather decides to take a turn!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
The Lighterman
Whether it’s on the terrace outside or up top on the roof, there’s more than one outdoor drinking option at Kings Cross’s The Lighterman. Either way, there’s a great view overlooking the canal and you’ll be surrounded by the hustle and bustle of Granary Square and twinkling lights. A great date night spot to head to after dinner, or to spend the entire evening with your boo.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Primos Mexican Cantina
Up in Finsbury Park lies a certified fiesta! If you’re looking for colour, spice and fun for your date night, then Primos is definitely worth a visit. With authentic dishes, a bright interior and fresh cocktails, you’ve got everything you need for an ultimate outdoor dining experience in Primos’ colourful garden. Plus, this is a wallet-friendly option too – it’s on our top 10 for a reason!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
Drake And Morgan At Kings Cross
A classic when it comes to restaurants with outdoor drinking in London, the Drake and Morgan at Kings Cross is downright iconic. Their outdoor area lies right in the heart of St Pancras Square too, so you can easily sip on a glass of wine and watch the city zip by!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
The Gatehouse
If your partner loves good old pub grub, then The Gatehouse makes the perfect spot to spend an evening nibbling on Spanish-inspired gastropub dishes. Plus, this is one of the best casual restaurants with outdoor drinking in North London, complete with the cutest pub garden that’s covered in the winter and open in the summer to suit a date any time of year!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Restaurants with Outdoor Drinking in West London
Synonymous with Instagrammable backdrops and sophisticated dishes, West London is full of posh restaurants, hidden gardens and rooftop hideaways, making it a perfect area to explore if you’re looking for a little bit of luxury in your outdoor drinking and dining experience. Let’s look at some of the best restaurants with outdoor drinking in West London.
Granger & Co Chelsea
Karauke is for you if you’re a fan of ukuleles and are looking for a unique live karaoke experience like no other out there. Fronted by an orchestra of bass, drums, and a whole load of ukuleles, you will take to the stage and feel like the lead singer of your very own band. This is the feel-good chant-along night perfect for belting out some bangers to a room of fellow good timers. Check out the event website for upcoming events.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Terrace at Harry’s Dolce Vita
If you’re after a daytime date in the heart of Knightsbridge, then Harry’s Dolce Vita is a great shout. Authentic Italian food, creative cocktails and fresh air – what could be better? Their cute outdoor tables with Mediterranean decor will make you feel like you’re sat people-watching in Florence – all you have to do is hope for that elusive London sunshine!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Chotto Matte
Ever heard of Nikkei cuisine? It’s a unique hybrid that combines Japanese and Peruvian foods. So if you or your partner is a foodie, you need to try this place. Chotto Matte specialise in this eclectic cuisine, and paired with their exotic cocktails and beautiful sun terrace, makes for a date you both won’t forget. Their terrace houses a number of tables perfect for enjoying the venue’s music and bar.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
No. 17 Dickens Yard
Over in Ealing, lies a certified hidden gem. Whether you’re after brunch, lunch or dinner before your drinks, No. 17 Dickens Yard provides a wonderful atmosphere every time. Their terrace is extremely spacious and decorated elegantly with plants and lights, so if you’re visiting in the evening, you’ll get that perfect romantic vibe you’re looking for. Plus, if you visit on the weekend, you can enjoy music and a little dancing too!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
A truly picturesque garden cafe, the Ivy Chelsea Garden is part of the Ivy’s iconic collection of restaurants and it’s one to bookmark, that’s for sure. Their garden cafe is surrounded by greenery and plush furnishings so you can dine, and sip, in complete comfort. Their international menu applies to their drinks menu too – so expect cocktails inspired by global flavours that you’ll find it hard to choose between!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
The Hari Hotel Bar & Terrace
Nestled in the Hari Hotel in Knightsbridge, is a super-cute Italian-inspired terrace waiting to be discovered. With stylish interiors and a tempting menu, you can enjoy a range of dishes under the stars. Relax in style after a busy day in London here sipping on Italian-inspired cocktails and nibbling alfresco like the Italians do!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
Hush Mayfair
With an elegant outdoor terrace, the decor at Hush in Mayfair changes with the seasons. From fairytales to a Mexican fiesta, you never know what you’ll get at Hush! Their wine list is a long one, so if vino is your thing, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Keep an eye out here, it’s rumoured that celebrities often frequent this venue – so the stars in the sky aren’t the only ones you’ll necessarily see when you dine here!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
MAZI, Notting Hill
Mazi is a rave-reviewed Greek spot in Notting Hill that prides itself on showing off how refined Greek cuisine can be. From Greek classics like gyros and calamari to their signature black truffle chicken. Plus, if you’re looking for restaurants with outdoor drinking for post-date drinks, you’re in the right place. Their cute little deck is perfect for alfresco dining and cocktails with a kick!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
No.197 Chiswick Fire Station
An ideal spot for an outdoor brunch or moonlit drinks under the stars, No.197 Chiswick Fire Station is a great place to head to with your partner, no matter the occasion. Their outdoor terrace is oh-so Instagrammable, as are their drinks, dishes… well everything really. Plus, it’s a bit of a hidden gem, so if you like that air of exclusivity then this is the best place for your next date night.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Stanley’s Chelsea
A beautifully decorated terrace that feels more like a secluded garden thanks to greenery and flowers adorning the umbrellas and separators, Stanley’s Chelsea provides style and luxury. Their decor and menu are inspired by the English countryside, so expect fresh flavours and local produce here. If you’re looking for a nature-themed outdoor drinking experience, then Stanley’s is definitely worth a visit.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
Outdoor Drinking in East London
From uber-cool gardens in Shoreditch to the rooftops of high rise buildings in Canary Wharf, East London has so much to offer when it comes to outdoor drinks in London. This bustling part of London is brimming with character, culture and energy – so whatever you’re looking for for your date night, you’re sure to find something here.
Skylight Rooftop
For outdoor drinks with a twist, head over to Skylight Rooftop at Tobacco Dock for drinks, music and lots of fun! In the winter months they have Europe’s only rooftop ice rink, complete with Covid-safe igloos facing London’s epic skyline and a heated pergola if you’re a little claustrophobic! Enjoy festive themed drinks and nibbles and have a go on the ice rink if you’re looking for a little something different out of your date night.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Fugitive Motel
Enjoy American-style cuisine in this mid-century inspired motel bar! Whether classic cocktails are what you like, or craft beers, this place has it all. Their outdoor tables overlook the busy streets of Bethnal Green and have the option of turning the heaters on in case the temperature drops!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
7 |
Boisdale of Canary Wharf
The terrace at the Boisdale of Canary Wharf provides a lively but stylish place to enjoy some outdoor drinks in the capital. They also serve up classic British cuisine, including some specialty Scottish dishes you can’t easily find elsewhere. A self-branded live music restaurant, you can expect a good night here whenever you choose to visit.
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9 |
Boundary Shoreditch
East London is known for its edgy, underground outdoor drinking spots, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a bit of luxury here either! Enter: Boundary Shoreditch. This stunning rooftop orangery and terrace has everything you need for a romantic evening under the stars. Fresh, creative cocktails, luxurious decor and views to match, what more do you need?
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
Aviary
With open air space to lap up the summer sun and the option for winter igloos once it’s colder out, this venue is great for a night of outdoor drinking in London no matter the time of year. Enjoy views of the Shard amongst other highlights of the capital’s skyline whilst you sip on signature cocktails in comfort. Sounds like the recipe for a perfect date night if you ask us.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
9 |
Barge East
Over in Hackney, you’ll find one of the more unique outdoor restaurants in London. Barge East is a great restaurant and bar on, well, a barge! If floating dinners aren’t really your thing, you can sit waterside and enjoy cocktails and small bites in their garden or terrace.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
Restaurants with Outdoor Drinking in South London
Last, but far from least, are our top picks for outdoor restaurants in South London. If you’re after a romantic evening or day-time outdoor drinking session south of the river, we’ve got 9 Instagrammable, date-worthy spots. Let’s get into them now!
Seabird
Seabird made the cut in our top 10 for more reasons than one. Aside from being one of the most stunning rooftops in all of London, Seabird also serves up beautiful seafood dishes and cracking cocktails on their tropical outdoor terrace. Top tip – get your reservation in early because this place gets booked up quickly!
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
10 |
The Garden Museum Cafe Lambeth
The Garden Museum in Lambeth celebrates the best of British gardens, and their cafe and outdoor dining area is nestled in a beautiful little garden of its own. Serving British cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, this place is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon with your significant other enjoying the greenery and fresh air.
The Exhibit Balham
The Exhibit is a 3-floor venue in the heart of South London that provides a great atmosphere and multiple outdoor drinking spots. Plus, their in-house mixologist has hand-crafted their cocktail menu so you’re sure to pick a good one! They also have a bottomless brunch to try, so if you’ve got a daytime date on the cards, give it a go.
Price | Food | Atmosphere | Customer Reviews | Love Score | Book |
8 |
The Refinery, Bankside
Part of the Drake and Morgan group, The Refinery Bankside is a lovely riverside restaurant and bar that offers international bites and elegant cocktails. Perfect for a spot of people-watching around busy Waterloo, head here after a busy day exploring London with your partner.
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8 |
Cinnamon Kitchen Battersea
Bringing together the best of India and the UK, Cinnamon Kitchen in Battersea offers a range of mouth watering Indian dishes. Located in the newly refurbished Battersea Power Station, this is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy a luxury outdoor dining experience!
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8 |
The Terrace by Megan’s
The Terrace by Megan’s is an outdoor diner’s dream. Sprawled across Clapham Common, this venue is perfectly situated and decked out for outdoor dining and drinks. Their Turkish boat-style pizzas are a must-try too! Plus, it’s covered, so it can handle any weather too!
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9 |
Vinegar Yard
Visit the Bat & Ball for some high-energy entertainment. Not only do they offer table tennis, beer pong, and pool tables, but karaoke is a priority too! So after you’ve racked ‘em up and practised some healthy competitiveness, you can then let your hair down a little by grabbing the microphone and ending the night with a heartfelt singalong. Book the private karaoke room now for 30 minutes or 60 minutes.
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8 |
Petersham Nurseries Café
This beautiful little cafe in Richmond is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine with your partner, no matter the time of day. Enjoy their elegant yet hearty dishes and if you get there early enough, you can take a stroll around the nursery and pick up a new plant baby to take home!
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9 |
Whatever, and wherever, you’re looking to enjoy a glass of wine under the stars with that special someone in the capital, you’re bound to find the perfect place in this list. Know of any other hidden gems out there? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your photos online!
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