Here are a few favorite spots where the al fresco setting and fresh air only come second to the delicious food on offer. Here's where to eat in London when the sun is shining—even into early fall.
The Ritz Secret Garden Bar
Secret Garden Bar
The Ritz onlineHidden away at the back of the Ritz London, you’ll find The Ritz Secret Garden Bar, a charm-filled elegant English garden in the middle of London. Edged up against Green Park, one of London’s immaculate Royal Parks, The Secret Garden Bar serves classic dishes from the hotel including the Ritz Classic Club sandwich. (There are also cigars to enjoy.) Just be sure to visit soon: This chic little garden party closes in the middle of September.
Colbert
Colbert
Colbert onlineThe chic Colbert is a local favorite in the upscale neighborhood of Sloane Square, featuring a classic French bistro menu, Parisian-inspired interiors and plenty of je ne sais quoi. For the real Parisian experience, take a seat at one of the outdoor marble brasserie tables under the burgundy awnings, where you can watch the world go by (as well as do some seriously amusing posh-people-watching). If you're a traveler drawn to the Sloane Square area, consider booking a night at the luxurious boutique hotel Belmond Cadogan Hotel or the 11 Cadogan Gardens.
Book The Belmond Cadogan Hotel Now
Book The 11 Cadogan Gardens Now
Dalloway Terrace
Dalloway Terrace Summer
Bloomsbury Hotel onlineThis outdoor terrace is part of the Bloomsbury Hotel in London’s historic literary center. Expect a flirty floral decor and a high-end seasonal menu featuring jazzed-up British classics like savory meat pies and plenty of English sparkling wines to sample. It’s big for buzzy brunches and postwork cocktail hours, and it also makes for a darling spot for some afternoon tea. This restaurant is open all year round, but the flowers make it magical in the summer.
Boulestin
Boulestin
Boulestin onlineBoulestin is a lovely little historic haunt in the heart of London’s upscale St. James. Escape the madding crowds of nearby Piccadilly in Boulestin’s secret backyard courtyard. The quaint space is lit by original, functioning Victorian gas lamps and shaded by cream-colored umbrellas, making it a good option for both day and night drinks and fine dining. (Also, the courtyard was once a very popular spot to fight duels.) If you’re looking to stay in the St. James neighborhood, stay at the chic Sofitel London St. James.
Coal Office
Coal Office
Coal Office onlineSet in the busy and up-and-coming King’s Cross neighborhood, Coal Office bills itself as “a food and design playground,” as it was created by chef Assaf Granit and Tom Dixon Studio. Expect a sleek and crowded outdoor terrace and modern Middle Eastern and North African fare best enjoyed at sunset with a refreshing glass of arak, an anise-flavored alcoholic tipple common to the Middle East. In the event that you get a little tipple-toppled, the Langham hotel is a short cab ride away.
Floral Court
Foral Court Petersham
Petersham onlineTucked away in Petersham Nurseries in Covent Garden—not far from The Savoy hotel—Floral Court connects the Petersham Shop, Florist, Delicatessen and Cellar with its restaurants, Petersham and La Goccia. On sun-filled summer days, dining and drinks spill out onto this enchanting courtyard bedecked in terra cotta potted ferns, bright blooms and sweet garden furniture. Don’t skip out on the garden-themed botanical cocktails, resplendent and Instagram-ready with wild herbs and edible flowers.
Le Pont de la Tour
Le Pont de la Tour
Le Pont de la Tour onlineOffering some of the best views of Tower Bridge and the River Thames, Le Pont de la Tour focuses on creative French cuisine and fresh seafood, and also plays host to a bar, a food and wine store and a bakery. Pull some inspiration from your waterside location and start with Jersey rock oysters followed by the line-caught cod served with Provençal-style ratatouille and finish off with the crêpes suzette. If you’re looking for a hotel near the Tower Bridge, check out The Tower Hotel.