Hot in The City: London’s Top 10 Alfresco Dining Spots for Summer
It’s finally here - and boy, do we deserve it. Summer has officially arrived, so locate your sunglasses and reserve a spot in the sunshine because it’s time to soak up some rays at one of the capital’s chicest outdoor-dining destinations. From glorious gardens perfect for feasting with friends, to buzzing rooftops ideal for sky-high sipping, we’ve got you (un)covered. After all, the best way to enjoy London in the summertime is outdoors, whether you’re brunching as you bask streetside in the sun or you’re chasing golden hour with a cocktail in hand — these are the ten hottest spots to dine outdoors in style this season.
Alto by San Carlo
Alto by San Carlo, Oxford Street
As central as it gets, rise above the hubbub of Oxford Street via an elegant lift inside Selfridges and find yourself in a rooftop oasis that captures all the beauty and merriment of the Mediterranean. Lush greenery, potted plants, trailing foliage, and Alto’s signature lemons frame London’s most iconic views, while maintaining a sun-soaked vibe no matter the British weather. The menu showcases classic Southern Italian cuisine, with highlights including the Pistachio Tiramisu, a dessert that has quickly achieved iconic status. Tried and approved by us at The Parent Edit, this exclusive creation, features layers of velvety mascarpone and the delicate flavour of pistachio - a must-order. Cocktail-wise, the ‘Piña Express’ is a fresh and fruity spritz ready to transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast (if only for the afternoon).
Home House Marylebone
Home House, Marylebone
Tucked behind an unmarked door on Portman Square, Home House is the kind of place that whispers exclusivity - you either know, or you don’t. A prestigious private members’ club with a rich artistic past (and more than a few eccentric stories to match), its Georgian grandeur spills effortlessly into a dreamy garden terrace that’s every bit as opulent. This summer, beneath a majestic Raj Tent, guests sip from an ingenious cocktail menu and graze on elegant seasonal small plates - think steak tartare with toasted sourdough and Cornish crab salad. Dessert? Don’t skip the strawberry parfait with buckwheat tuile and basil. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, the history, or simply a signature cocktail, Home House proves that London hides magical pockets of timeless luxury behind even the quietest of doors.
108 Brasserie Marylebone
108 Brasserie, Marylebone
Fresh for summer, experience 108 Brasserie’s glorious new floral installation in partnership with Maison Mirabeau rosé – where the charm of Marylebone’s Georgian streets meets the glamour of the French Riviera. One of London’s most ‘Insta-worthy’ terraces, you’re certain to be enthralled as soon as you set eyes on the alfresco scenes at 108. Sip on chilled Mirabeau rosé paired with 108’s brand new bar bites, or choose an expertly concocted cocktail as you watch the world go by on one of London’s most well-to-do streets. We’ve tried and tested the cocktails, the Live Jazz Brunch and the seafood platter - all are nothing short of sensational. You’re going to want to keep the camera out for this one. Superb presentation that tastes just as gorgeous as it looks, this really is an experience you’re going to remember. A dreamy combo of impeccable service, flawless surroundings, and food and cocktails that deliver on every level.
Pastaio Carnaby Street
Pastaio, Carnaby Street
Don’t be fooled - this isn’t your average city-centre Italian, trust us we’ve been. Just steps from Carnaby Street, Pastaio is a vibrant, modern trattoria serving up bold flavours with serious flair. The lobster linguine alone is worth a visit - generous, rich and piled high with fresh, sweet shellfish, it’s one of the best we’ve ever twirled our forks into. Starters set the tone: velvety bresaola topped with nutty aged Parmesan, crunchy walnuts and a drizzle of balsamic that sings with acidity. When it comes to dessert, think top-tier tiramisu with cloud-like layers of mascarpone and espresso-soaked sponge. The terrace itself is the ultimate location to watch Soho’s buzz like a moving play. With wines on tap, house-made limoncello, and prosecco slushies that demand a sunny afternoon, this spot is as joyful as it is delicious.
The Rooftop at The Standard
The Rooftop at The Standard, Kings Cross
Located on the 11th floor of The Standard, in the heart of King's Cross, The Rooftop offers unparalleled views of the magnificent St Pancras station, one of London’s most revered and breathtaking architectural marvels. We took a visit and couldn’t put our cameras down due to scenes so cinematic. If you’re lucky like us, expect an orange sunset illuminating the station’s silhouette like a scene from a movie. While watching this, soak up some really funky vibes from the rooftop DJ, and sip on some on-trend cocktails such as a smoky margarita, or a zesty grapefruit paloma. It doesn’t get much cooler than this when it comes to sky-high sipping. Hungry? There’s a pizza oven up here too, serving slices in New York City style.
The Maine Mayfair
The MAINE, Mayfair
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Mayfair, The MAINE’s “Orangerie” is a Mediterranean dream brought to life - and one of London’s best-kept secrets. The striped awnings, marble-topped tables, and Romanesque urns painted by artist Gergei Erdei create a vision that’s pure Riviera escapism, just moments from Bond Street. This 100-cover terrace doesn’t just look the part, it delivers on flavour too. Think sizzling prawns with rosemary and green chilli, buttery steak tartare, and standout charred artichokes laced with parmesan and pecorino. Dessert? Don’t even think about skipping the gooey cookie dough with ice cream. Warm, glamorous and surprisingly tucked-away, The MAINE is as much about the experience as it is the food - especially if you stay for the live music downstairs. Whether you’re after a sun-drenched spritz or a decadent dinner that rolls into a night of sparkle and soul, this is your summer showstopper.
Dalloway Terrace Bloomsbury
Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury
Nestled in the heart of Bloomsbury, Dalloway Terrace is a lush botanical oasis inspired by Virginia Woolf and her enchanting literary character, Mrs. Dalloway. With ever-changing seasonal blooms festooned throughout the venue, creating a breathtaking backdrop, and a cosy yet elegant vibe to match, it’s the perfect spot for everything from an intimate afternoon tea to a celebratory weekend brunch or dinner. The menu shines with modern European dishes crafted from local, seasonal ingredients and has just earned its first AA Rosette for culinary excellence. A chic slice of Bloomsbury’s creative spirit, paired with seriously impressive food.
Il Gattopardo Mayfair
Il Gattopardo, Mayfair
Hidden just beyond the main dining room of Il Gattopardo, the ‘Terrazza’ is one of Mayfair’s most beautiful and discreet alfresco havens. This semi-open space, complete with its own private bar and sumptuous interior touches, offers an intimate setting perfect for everything from luxurious lunches to stylish cocktail hours and canapé-filled dinners ideal for dates under the night sky. Whether you’re basking in balmy summer evenings or seeking shelter from a crisp breeze, the seasonal menu here swings with the rhythms of the year, delivering dishes that feel fresh, vibrant, and perfectly timed for summer. Quietly exclusive and effortlessly elegant, the Terrazza is a rare gem, a secret spot for those who truly appreciate refined outdoor dining in the heart of the city.
ROKA Mayfair
ROKA, Mayfair and Charlotte Street
With its signature sleek aesthetic and glowing reputation, ROKA is a go-to for those craving refined Japanese dining - and its Charlotte Street and Mayfair outposts come with an alfresco upgrade for the spring and summer months. Step onto one of their elegant, greenery-framed terraces and you’ll find the perfect sun-soaked setting for lingering lunches or atmospheric dinner dates. The menu is everything you’d expect and more: smoky, flame-kissed robata grilled meats, jewel-like sushi and sashimi that are almost too pretty to eat, and desserts that finish things off with finesse. Pair it all with a chilled glass of sake, a well-crafted cocktail or something crisp from the wine list, and you’ve got yourself a summer dining experience worth booking ahead for.
Madera at Treehouse London
Madera at Treehouse London, Regent Street
“The energy of Cali-Mexico in the heart of London” Madera offers guests to take a perch in ‘The Nest’ their rooftop bar with spectacular 360 degree views of central London and beyond. When it comes to food, ‘modern California-Mexican cuisine’ is the assignment - so get ready to savour bold flavours paired with fresh, organic ingredients. This is the perfect spot for a sky-high lazy weekend brunch: enjoy a selection of classic brunch dishes and Californian Mexican classics including new sharing taco boards bursting with colour and flavour. Here in the evening? Try Madera’s bespoke sundown cocktails each with their own twist, perfect to ease you into the weekend evenings. The ultimate rooftop escape, just above the clouds and far from the ordinary.
Words by Olivia Riccini
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Summer in London means two things: roof terraces and alfresco dining. Here's our guide to 8 of the best London spots for Alfresco dining (and drinking) this weekend from West-End rooftops to Thames-side terraces. Read more…