Are you looking for the best outdoor & rooftop hot spots in London? Look no further – we’ve got you covered with this list of the hottest spots in town.
Nothing beats a thirst-quenching martini on a blistering day, partnered with flavoursome homely small plates, concluded with an indulgent scoop of rich gelato.
Be it an English country courtyard, spectacular sky-high rooftop or rustic terrace, we bring you some of the capital’s favourite gems for those alfresco cocktail soirées, and balmy luncheon reunions.
1. Stanley’s | Chelsea
Address: 151 Sydney St, Chelsea, London, SW3 6NT
A shimmering ray of light in the dark Covid spell, Hugh Stanley took to the SW3 Sloane Ranger borough with his glittering self-proclaimed venture in July 2020.
Tucked behind a vibrant flower stall on Sydney Street lies a secret floral festooned cocoon, complete with botanical green button-back booths, tinkling fountains and luminous fairy lights. The menu boasts the foremost of British seasonal produce, including black truffle gnocchi, and aged rib eye dripping in smoked beef fat sauce. Each dish never ceases to fail in showcasing a delectable spread of unpretentious artistic beauty, courtesy of 2019 Masterchef finalist and Claridge’s alumna; Olivia Burt.
To round off the sublime cuisine is a meticulously curated wine list assembled alongside Lea & Sandeman, one of London’s most esteemed wine merchants granted with a Royal Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty the Queen. For the full quintessential gastronomical affair, pair up your meal with a bottle of sparkling Coates & Seely Brut Reserve NV, encompassing a light peachy aroma with the fresh crispness of green apple.
To book, visit: Stanley’s Chelsea
2. Hush | Mayfair
Address: 8 Lancashire Ct, London, W1S 1EY
Mayfair’s treasured, secret townhouse courtyard sits nestled off the beaten cobbled track of Lancashire Court, in the historic heart of the silk-stockinged W1 neighbourhood.
Co-owned by Geoffrey Moore, son of the late Hollywood and Bond hero Sir Roger Moore, this blooming floral sanctum has proven just as pleasing to the eye as the irresistible, MI5 agent since its 1999 birth, as an epoch white Vespa comes adorned with cascading pastel rose garlands, and blanket covered seating dotted around emerald grass grounds.
Ringing the balmy air with a hearty “Buongiorno”, is ‘The New Dolce Vita’ Courtyard, in a dynamic Summer duo coupling with the iconic, amber-hued Disaronno.
Guests can luxuriate in an Italian voyage of 50s golden glamour, as an enchanting swing yearns for that Instagram spotlight moment against the peach and blush backdrop before they indulge in a fiesta of tender paper-thin beef carpaccio, rich silky burrata, and creamy lemon tart created from the soft, sweet juice brimming lemons right from the Amalfi coast.
On hand to wash down the dining delights, are the likes of a Velvet Batida cocktail created with the delicate, cream liqueur of Disaronno Velvet, or a rejuvenating Disaronno Fizz topped with a smooth, botanical splash of Fever-Tree soda water.
To book, visit: Hush
3. Jin Bo Law | Aldgate
Address: 14th Floor, 9 Aldgate High Street, Dorsett City, London, EC3N 1AH
Sitting smug clad in antique gold finishes, and dark marble 14 floors high on East London’s slick Dorsett City hotel, Jin Bo Law boasts some serious East meets West swagger showcased in their divine cocktail catalogue.
Chic clientele can literally sample a taste of the “High Life”, aka sparkling prosecco twirled with pearly floral hints of lychee liqueur, and deep robust plum notes from the Akashi-Tai Umeshu liqueur. For a more sturdy creation, Tokyo’s own spin on an old fashion hits the spot with a malty splash of Hatozaki Japanese Whiskey for a smooth tipple experience.
Already a fire hot sky bar haven for the city’s polished prestige, Jin Bo Law regularly plays host to London’s most legendary Summer jamborees. Beautiful chiselled DJs and fire performers ramp up the high octane vibes, as guest guzzle their way through copious rounds of Moet & Chandon flutes, whilst soaking up the Capital’s spine-tingling skyline sights of the Shard, Gherkin, and the Walkie Talkie creating the ultimate scene, to be seen.
To book, visit: Jin Bo Law
4. The Ivy | Soho
Address: The Ivy Soho Brasserie, 26-28 Broadwick Street, London W1F 8JB
The Ivy Collection is synonymous with sophisticated yet attainable luxury, providing the perfect setting for every full-scale lavish or low-key modest celebration which is seeing the group continuously thrive.
The arresting terrace backdrops of Soho’s location will welcome their discerning clientele amidst lush foliage, and jewel-bright blossoming flowers. The addition of heated lamps and covers will keep the UK Summer chill and showers at bay, as guests wine and dine on a menu of cherished Ivy classics including The Ivy Royale flute, golden Chicken Milanese with creamy truffle sauce, and tender crispy duck salad with sesame and ginger.
Sweet highlights include the rich, devilish blueberry panna cotta topped with real gold flakes for a little dessert grandeur, followed swiftly by a selection of dark chocolate truffles, oozing with a liquid salted caramel centre.
To book, visit: The Ivy
5. La Veranda By Patrón At The Rosewood London | Holborn
Address: 252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN, United Kingdom
A sprinkling of Mexican magic has graced and transformed the Belle Époque enchantment of Rosewood London’s sun-trapped courtyard, into an immersive Latino hideaway soaked in a kaleidoscope of bold colours and soft textures, that embodies the calm British spirit with Mexico’s vivacious soul.
Inspired by the azure blue tranquillity of Tulum, guests can are invited into a far-flung, Latin American utopia as they are hosted amongst calming waterfall features, vibrant ceramics, Atzeg rugs and adorable terracotta pots brimming with lush native plants.
Not content with one of London’s most exotic summer transformations in the heart of the city’s hustle and bustle, the Rosewood London team have also roped in renowned tequila maestro Patron in an exclusive partnership for some “Simply Perfect Patrón cocktails”.
Quirky concoctions to quench your thirst include a Pink Chihuahua with a swirl of passion fruit and champagne, or a classic picante Margarita with the earthy fruit aromas from Patron’s silver tequila while keeping the cocktails in the scrumptious company is a fest of quesadillas, loaded with melt in the mouth pork braised for 8 hours, and silk-like guacamole topped with tangy pomegranate and tomatoes.
To book, visit: Rosewood London
6. Sabine Rooftop Bar | St Paul’s
Address: 10 Godliman St, London EC4V 5AJ
Stamped as London’s not so best kept secret within the cocooned depths of the city of London, lies the glass-domed, botanical oasis of Sabine Rooftop Bar. This vibrant rooftop gem right on Leonardo Royal London St Paul’s 7th floor, transports their elegant guests into a lush, garden-like sanctuary far flung from the capital’s maddening hustle and bustle, to luxuriate in seasonal sharing plates and divine cocktails, whilst gazing at the awe-inspiring views of the masterpiece of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard.
Jewel green foliage holds the limelight dressed in abundance against the smooth glossy walls however, the outdoor terrace proves ever more the beauteous Instagrammable knockout with flourishing hanging plants and rich, jewel purple flowering vines wrapping around the glass balcony railing.
Cocktail affairs include a very fresh Tangy Berry with a touch of Belvedere and Mandarine Napoleon, or a Hennessy XO and bitter chocolate infused Smoky Desire whilst generous sharing plates of creamed burrata with seared peaches, and tender Lebanese chicken brimming with lemon and garlic unleashes the gluttony devil within.
To book, visit: Sabine Rooftop Bar
7. Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane | Mayfair
Address: Hamilton Place, Park Lane, W1J 7DR
Perfect pairings don’t come more flawless than the Four Seasons empire and the Hermes of champagne; Dom Pérignon.
Fizz connoisseurs and gourmet devotees can bask amongst a floral adorned ambience, as they indulge in a sybaritic experience of three exquisite Dom Pérignon vintages to be enjoyed by the flute, be it their fragrant Rose 2006 or a full, extravagant tasting affair with the lux Dom Pérignon Flight.
Elevating the palatial champagne encounter is a mouth-watering canapé array of succulent, hand-dived scallop with Oscietra caviar, not neglecting the dessert delights of buttery tartlets loaded with smooth passion fruit cream, complete with golden, caramelised banana.
The hotel’s newly glossed up Park Lane Parlour unleashes the Willy Wonka within with a sugar fest of ice cream sandwiches and lavender-infused cordial, while live summer series of soulful Saxophonists and club lounge anthems add a smidgen of immersive Summer spectacles to conclude your Alfresco luncheon.
To book, visit: Four Seasons
8. Jurema Terrace At The Mandrake | Fitzrovia
Address: 20-21 Newman Street London, W1T 1PG
Spiritual wellness meets brazen debauchery with this evergreen Eden.
Cocooned on the Mandrake’s first-floor terrace, this AHEAD Awards winner unearths a provocative, open-air hanging garden submerged in suspended fragrant jasmine, and towering Tasmanian Ferns whilst the second floor hosts a gleaming glasshouse, abundant with medicinal flora that would leave even the seductive temptress Poison Ivy intoxicated.
An assemblage of South American-influenced sharing plates awaits to satiate guests’ appetites at YOPO, be they succulent fresh Scottish scallop ceviche topped with fine shallots, or melt in mouth, slow-cooked lamb shoulder with soft tortillas.
A more unorthodox twist is showcased in the cocktail menu, giving centre stage to herbal elements light years away from the predictable espresso or pornstar martinis. Discerning clientele can wrap lips around an invigorating Blue Lotus mingled with heady passionflower, lavender and champagne, followed by a caramelised Praline creation, swirled with a toasted sugar dallop of golden maple.
To book, visit: Jurema Terrace
9. Pergola Paraiso | Paddington
Address: 5 Kingdom Street, Paddington Central, W2 6PY
The home of the sacred ancient Mayan ruins appears to have bewitched the city of London residents, with yet another Tulum-inspired alfresco pearl.
Pergola Paraiso ignites the essence of the city’s high voltage, bohemian beach club party spirit with hypnotic tribal melodies, and deep-toned bass tremors as you wallow within the sun-kissed terrace enveloped by wicker chairs, hammocks and pristine cabanas doused in a cooling pale ivory shade, finished with a tropical touch of verdant green palm trees.
Crudo Cevicheria and Dos Mas Tacos thrive in delivering Mexico’s bona fide palate to the UK capital’s dining tables, where tender sea bass ceviche bathing in velvet tiger milk can be savoured next to fluffy corn tortillas brimming with slow-cooked pulled beef and melted cheese, not neglecting a scoop or three of creamy salted caramel ice cream to gratify the sweet tooth.
All manners of quintessentially Mexican cocktail medley to ramp up the rave-up vivacity, be they the frozen favourites of a sharp pink favourite Paloma, or a Sangria Roja loaded with fresh summer berries and Cognac Seignette VS.
To book, visit: Pergola Paraiso
10. The Laslett | Notting Hill
Address: 8 Pembridge Gardens, Notting Hill, London, W2 4DU
Part of the cosy, yet ultra luxe Living Rooms hotel Familia, The Laslett hotel have created a soothing lush terrace shelter that subdues the London flurried commotion, yet rests just minutes away from Notting Hill tube station.
A sweeping striped canopy kitted with endearing twinkling lights, stretches over snug upholstered bench seating and gleaming white marble tables, finished with dressings of freshly potted plants dotted throughout the exquisite terrace space.
Diners can expect a revived brunch menu launch, showcasing an epicurean attire of colourful small plates courtesy of the Laslett’s general manager, Ian Telford.
A true-blue advocate for wholesome British ingredients twirled with a Mediterranean flair that harmonises the rustic ambience, luscious light hummus comes with notes of mellow garlic, lemon, and rich truffle, whilst the otherwise tangy whipped feta is softened by mini helpings of cream and smooth olive oil that’s pure moreish with the accompaniments of pita bread and crunchy crudités.
Larger plates are undeniably worth saving for, as the Laslett Burger unearths a prime, juice-brimming beef patty served with golden crisp onion rings, and an Instagrammer delight of the warm matcha waffle resting on a beautiful pastel plate, topped with vanilla hinted mascarpone cream, rhubarb and vibrant mixed berries.
Teetotal visitors will revel in the discovery of Laslett’s delicious zero alcohol offering of 2021, Wild Idol Sparkling Rose. Vibrant yet delicate, this natural alcohol alternative comes abundant with delicate fruity floral aromas, and notes of gooseberry and green apple for a crisp clear finish. Liquor connoisseurs need not fret, as a healthy selection of full-bodied red, dry whites and elegant citrus Rose wines are available to be savoured.
To book, visit: The Laslett
11. Tattu London | Soho
Address: The Now Building Rooftop, Outernet, Denmark St, London, WC2H 0LA
Fashionable Chinese cuisine encounters rousing theatrics at this new glitterati playground that for once, sings chic style with mouthwatering substance.
A stone throw away from Tottenham Court Road station, Tattu borrows a double meaning from the Eastern ancient word ‘tatau’, translated to signify making a mark with a medley of the rather familiar ‘tattoo’, as a nod to the exquisite intricacy of the restaurant’s interiors.
Through the vision of a time-honoured Chinese Courtyard House, Tattu’s entrance gate illustrates four mythical Tattu spirits of the Phoenix, Koi Carp, Dragon and Tiger, as a symbolic accolade to bestow golden fortune on their dazzling guests.
After strutting through the ornate backdrop of Chinese motifs, immaculate marble and luminous purple cherry blossom trees, guests are welcomed into the restaurant’s breezy outer courtyard, where minimalistic adornments of simple greenery and white cherry blossom pave the way to shine the spotlight on the terrace’s unparalleled, panoramic views of the city’s West End.
Tattu’s cocktail contents deliver as an Instagrammer’s rhapsody, with bitter root, Roku gin negronis decorated with baby pink cherry blossom trees, and the glamour-puss showstopper of the Celestial Dragon, where sweet honeyed contents of Belvedere Smogóry Forest entwine with cranberry hinted hibiscus, served in an ethereal crystal dragon with a dash of smoke for some dining showmanship.
The gourmet menu proves equally aesthetically pleasing with a flavour profile to match, showcasing a fusion collaboration of China, Japan, and a European appearance. Wagyu ribeye dumplings come encased in vibrant ruby red wrapping, whilst the wok-fired, angry bird chicken dish bursts with delectable spices, rounded off with toasted sweet notes of sesame honey soy.
Room for dessert is compulsory for works of art including the koi fish panna cotta, where a dainty glass fish bowl unearths a cream brimming with flavours of coconut and lemongrass, hiding undercoating of vivid aquamarine jelly almost too beautiful to eat. Don’t stall in digging into the edible flowers and little fishes swimming at the top, the latter are meticulously moulded from pure creamy chocolate that will leave you swooning on the first bite.
To book, visit: Tattu London
12. The Prince | Brompton
Address: 14 Lillie Rd, London, SW6 1TT
An exit from West Brompton tube, plus a painstaking three-minute walk will have you inside three bars, four restaurants, and an enchanting English timber world that is, The Prince.
Born as a Victorian drinking tavern, the one-time old Prince of Wales has witnessed a dapper resurrection into a midnight blue beautiful boozer, swirled with an edge of street food hub vibes. Rustic wood flooring, hanging lights and glowing neon signs add to the chic ambience of the space, whilst not losing sight of the whimsical, floral fairytale of the woodland garden, resplendent in a rainbow of flamboyant Wisteria vines, roses and blossoming displays.
Not one to dampen their guest’s spirited party aura, the garden comes bedecked with a fully retractable roof to keep the rain gods at bay or summon the luminary deities to bestow their sunshine blessings.
The restaurants play host to a medley of delicious aromas and flavours to be savoured under one roof. Succumb to the grime life with Filth&Co’s gluttonous yet irrepressible burgers, including the “Oh My Cod” with its golden crisp batter and semi-sweet tartare sauce, or a “Sweet Cheesus” with a double beef helping and gooey melted cheese.
For a sumptuous East Asian tasting voyage, Temaki Bros take obsessive pride in their carefully curated hand rolls packed with tender salmon and tuna tartare, not forgetting their loaded poke bowls including the signature favourite of melt-in-the-mouth, 36-hour sous vide pork belly.
No warm flat lagers dare disgrace the Prince and its aperitif contents, the La Vie En Rose cocktail comes busting with sweet, berry fruit flavours from Tarquin’s strawberry and lime gin, while the blue curacao Zelenskyy creation infused with Solovey vodka, proudly aids in War Child’s mission to safeguard Ukraine’s children caught up in the conflict, donating £1 for every Zelenskyy cocktail sold.
To book, visit: The Prince
