When London decides to show off its sun, there’s only one thing to do – head outside. From lush garden courtyards in Chelsea to sky-high sushi with city views, the capital is bursting with alfresco restaurants made for long lunches, twilight cocktails, and everything in between. Whether you’re after great food, great views or a sun-soaked atmosphere, these are London’s best outdoor dining destinations to book now.

SUSHISAMBA, City of London

Perched on the 38th floor of the Heron Tower, SUSHISAMBA delivers sky-high dining with a Brazilian-Japanese twist. The sweeping terrace offers panoramic views of the City and beyond, best taken in over a plate of tuna tiradito or a signature samba roll. Sunset cocktails here are a rite of passage, especially when paired with the rooftop’s iconic orange tree sculpture. sushisamba.com

Seabird, Southwark

Oysters, octopus and open skies – Seabird is London’s seafood temple in the clouds. Located atop The Hoxton Southwark, its plant-filled terrace channels a Med-meets-Manhattan vibe with sweeping views of the Thames and a delicious raw bar. Order the towering seafood platter, and don’t skip the Galician-style grilled octopus. seabirdlondon.com

Angler Restaurant, Moorgate

Michelin-starred Angler delivers seasonal British seafood in an elegant rooftop setting above South Place Hotel. Its intimate outdoor terrace is the perfect foil for head chef Gary Foulkes’ refined tasting menus, served with a side of London skyline. A city sanctuary for special occasions and seafood lovers alike. anglerrestaurant.com

Mercer Roof Terrace, The City

A hidden gem above Vintry & Mercer hotel, Mercer Roof Terrace is a polished yet relaxed spot where modern British fare meets skyline gazing. With views across St Paul’s and the Shard, and a menu featuring Hereford steaks and Cornish cod, it’s a City favourite that nails both business lunches and romantic nights. vintryandmercer.com

Coq d’Argent, Bank

A stalwart of London’s rooftop scene, Coq d’Argent blends French fine dining with immaculately manicured rooftop gardens. Sit among clipped hedges and skyline views while tucking into a côte de boeuf or lemon sole meunière. Timeless, polished, and perfect for power lunches with a view. coqdargent.co.uk

Sabine, St Paul’s

Sabine is a breath of botanical fresh air in the City. This rooftop bar and restaurant offers close-up views of St Paul’s Cathedral from a stylish, foliage-filled terrace. The Mediterranean-inspired menu is light, fresh and shareable—ideal for balmy evenings with a cocktail in hand. sabinelondon.co.uk

The River Café, Hammersmith

This Thames-side institution remains one of London’s most idyllic alfresco spots. With its leafy terrace, legendary Italian menu, and River Thames breeze, The River Café is a summertime dream. It’s a place where handmade pasta, wild strawberries and olive oil cake taste even better under dappled light. rivercafe.co.uk

Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury

Step into a floral fantasy at Dalloway Terrace, one of London’s most Instagrammed outdoor dining spots. Nestled within The Bloomsbury Hotel, its elegant, ever-changing floral decor makes it a go-to for brunches, afternoon teas, and date nights that feel like a midsummer dream. dallowayterrace.com

Pastaio, Soho

For pasta with a side of people-watching, Pastaio’s outdoor tables on Ganton Street are hard to beat. This Jamie Oliver-backed gem keeps it casual and colourful with generous plates of cacio e pepe and Aperol spritzes under striped umbrellas. A buzzy, central option for alfresco pasta purists. pastaio.co.uk

Sparrow Italia, Mayfair

Chic, moody, and undeniably Mayfair, Sparrow Italia’s outdoor terrace is an elegant pocket of calm amid the bustle. Expect Mediterranean decadence—lobster spaghetti, truffle arancini, lamb chops—served with a side of velvet banquettes and lush greenery. Ideal for date nights or upscale weekend lunches. sparrowitalia.com

Petersham Nurseries Café, Richmond

A pastoral escape just beyond the city, Petersham Nurseries Café is alfresco dining at its dreamiest. Sit among climbing roses, gravel paths, and vintage furniture while enjoying Italian-inspired seasonal dishes made with ingredients from the garden. One of London’s most romantic spots, full stop. petershamnurseries.com

Stanley, Chelsea

Stanley Chelsea feels like a well-kept local secret—stylish, sun-dappled and delicious. The courtyard garden, dotted with olive trees and string lights, is a charming place to linger over burrata, lobster pasta or a cheeky afternoon rosé. Effortlessly chic, and unmistakably Chelsea. stanleyschelsea.co.uk

The Orangery at Number Sixteen, South Kensington

A serene hidden garden in the heart of South Kensington, The Orangery at Number Sixteen is a lesson in elegant escape. Set behind the boutique hotel, the outdoor space feels private and peaceful, surrounded by lush greenery. A lovely pick for afternoon tea or a relaxed lunch in style. firmdalehotels.com

La Famiglia, Chelsea

This Chelsea classic has been serving rustic Tuscan fare since 1966. Its vine-covered terrace is a local favourite for long family-style lunches of pappardelle, veal Milanese and carafes of Chianti. A slice of old-school Italy in West London—charming, welcoming, and wonderfully unpretentious. lafamiglia.co.uk