Whether you’re staying in London, or visiting for the day, rooftop restaurants in London are simply part of the must-do capital experience. You can’t quite beat the vibe of sitting in the summer sunshine (wrapped in a blanket if the air has a slight chill), sipping a glass of your favourite drink and enjoying fabulous food, whilst looking out over the London skyline.
London is positively bursting with choice when it comes to rooftop restaurants. From snug and cosy Mediterranean-esque bistros and vibrant bars serving mighty good food, to exquisite fine dining, there’s something that will suit your tastes and mood.
· Aviary
Nestled up above the City are the fabulously indulgent dining pods at Aviary. If you’ve been hard at the coalface of business life during the day, or simply want to take some time out for a decadent lunch with friends, then the Aviary is waiting for your booking. Watching the sun set here as you dine on delicious seafood is a London experience you just can’t beat. The contemporary stylish vibe is nudging into opulent and it’ll be hard to pull yourself away.
· Mercer Roof Terrace
There’s so much to be enjoyed at Mercer Roof Terrace. As you gaze out across London, taking in iconic sights such as St Paul’s Cathedral and the dominance of The Shard, you can relax back in the chic atmosphere where you’ll be spoiled by outstanding service. You’ll find a lot of business diners make their way here, but really, everyone will find the atmosphere perfect for them and their dining party. Al fresco eating on the terrace beckons, but should the British weather decide to spice things up, you can sit inside. What’s great about this is with the floor to ceiling glass doors and complete glass surround, you’ll feel like you’re still out on the terrace anyway!
· Aqua Kyoto
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese food, or are yet to try it, you absolutely have to experience Aqua Kyoto. Not only is the terrace so beautiful that it will take your breath away, they serve up a stunning taste sensation with incredible sashimi and omakase sushi. Our favourite recommendation is the shrimp tempura, but honestly, you won’t go wrong with anything you order. Aqua Kyoto is found just off Regent’s Street so it’s perfect to break up a London shopping trip and rest your weary feet before you hit the pavements again.
· Skylark Roof Garden
Often dismissed as ‘just a bar’, you’re missing out if you don’t sample brunch at the Skylark Roof Garden. 10 floors up, Skylark is known for its incredible cocktails, but their south-facing garden, found up above Little Venice, also serves up a mighty fine brunch. Your views as you dine will take in Notting Hill and Hyde Park, so as you can imagine, the vibe is London at its truest. Depending on your mood, opt for cheeseburger sliders, or give the Mediterranean grilled lamb a go. If it’s hot, just make sure you order one of their frozen cocktails too!
· Darwin Brasserie at The Sky Garden
Ok, so technically the Darwin Brasserie at The Sky Garden isn’t actually on the rooftop. But it’s near enough and the view and atmosphere certainly makes you think it is. You’re up on Level 36 and in fact this is the highest brasserie you’ll find in the capital, so we’re claiming it! Darwin’s Brasserie is the Sky Garden place to be if you fancy British fare that’s simply done to perfection. The Brixham Crab may have started life in Devon, but is at home here. Make sure you finish off with their delicious Eton Mess!
· 14 Hills
14 Hills has succeeded in creating a haven of remarkable beauty in the bustling cosmopolitan streets of London. You actually have to see it to believe it, and we just know you won’t want to leave. Not far from Fenchurch Street Station, this is another popular rooftop restaurant in London enjoyed by business people. Head here at night time and you may be treated to live music too. There is a dedicated Terrace Menu which lulls you in with sharing boards and the understated term ‘bar snacks’ which actually includes such wonders as chickpea fries and siracha mayo squid. Want it all to yourself? They’ve got private venue hire options too.
· London Bridge Rooftop
London Bridge Rooftop is the perfect balance of chilled and pumping. It’s relaxed, and this is the informal spot to meet good friends and enjoy the London Bridge skyline that’s drawing your attention. Whether the DJ is in the booth, or it’s a quiet lunchtime, you’ll love the vibe here. There’s lots of comforting hearty food on offer here. We really recommend their burgers, whether you’re opting for meat or vegan.
· Madera at Treehouse London
Treehouse London has a reputation for being a fantastic hotel, but it’s the rooftop terrace restaurant that we really rate. The views are incredible, the setting is divine, and the vibrant and intense plates of Mexican fare are wonderful. Hint: order a taxi back to your serviced apartment so that you can indulge in one or two of the tequila cocktails on offer.
· Vagabond Northcote Road
This isn’t the rooftop restaurant for iconic London views, but what they’ve created is a snug little haven that sacrifices panoramas for an intimate, cosy vibe that you won’t find elsewhere. Known affectionately as the Secret Garden, the Vagabond Northcote Road in Clapham, South London, has delicious plates of nibbles and small plates to be enjoyed alongside a decadently huge wine list.
· Seabird – The Hoxton
Seabird is one for seafood lovers. You can be forgiven for feeling you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean coast when you rock up here, even though you’re simply up above the streets of Southwark. Their dedicated ‘Oyster Menu’ says it all, and we particularly love ordering a selection of their small plates with the diversity of flavours and textures you get.
· The Chapel Bar
The Chapel Bar has a private hire terrace room and garden that’s calling out for your booking. Whether you’re with a group of friends, or need to do some business entertaining, around 20 of you can comfortably sit and be fed wonderful food here. It has a relaxed and informal feel, but behind it is dedicated service and exceptional standards.
· Madison Rooftop
Sitting in the imposing shadow of St Paul’s Cathedral, the iconic dome provides a perfect backdrop for an evening of eating and drinking at Madison Rooftop. Here’s where you want to make a reservation if you fancy some New York grub. You’ll find mouth-watering steaks as well as other American classics.
One of the real joys of choosing to stay in a London serviced apartment is that you can take your pick of brilliant restaurants. This summer make sure you head out onto the rooftop!
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