Nothing much beats a long leisurely meal in London, apart from a long leisurely meal in the sun! We got in touch with our friends at Bookatable.com to find out some of the city's greatest restaurants to wine and dine in the sunshine.
Searcy's at the Gherkin:
Proudly perched on the 39th-floor, Searcys at the Gherkin has 360-degree glass walls allowing for uninterrupted city panoramas. Designed by Lord Foster and rising 180 metres above the city, Searcys is the perfect place to enjoy London’s epic sunsets from above. The sophisticated a la carte menu offers gorgeously prepared dishes in a really unique and oddly tranquil environment. Signature treats include sea bream with brown shrimp, or Gressingham duck breast with raspberry. Get stuck in!
Where: 30 St Mary Axe, London, EC3A 8EPWhen: Monday to Sunday: 12:00 - 14:15 & 18:00 - 21:00
Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings
Packed with indoor plants that will make you feel like you’re inside an art nouveau movie, Bourne & Hollingsworth offers a range of gorgeous eating spaces, with superb service and all-day flexibility. Great for meetings and cheeky catch-ups, this homey spot feels like a member’s club without the member fees and pretentious flair that usually comes with one. With loads of seats available, this fauna filled fantasy is ideal for parties and special functions. When: Monday-Thursday: 11am-midnight, Friday: 11am-1am Saturday: 10am-1am, Sunday: 10am-6pmWhere: 42 Northampton Road, London, EC1R 0HU
Oxo Tower Bar
Nestled away on the 8th-floor of the infamous OXO Tower, the OXO bar offers both classic and creative cocktails with a view of the Thames flowing beneath you. Soak up the sunshine on the outdoor terrace or watch the city sparkle from the super chic bar inside. Some of the popular dishes include fried squid with parmesan aioli, or sweet potato wedges with cucumber, dill yoghurt and sweet chili dressing. If you’re hungrier than that, hearty wholesome lunches, like juicy burgers and fish and chips are on the cards too.Where: OXO Tower Wharf, Barge House Street, South Bank, London, SE1 9PHWhen: Monday – Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00 / Sunday: 12:00 -22:00.
The Garden at Blakes Hotel
One of London's best kept secrets, the courtyard at Blakes hotel is a quirky, peaceful oasis to escape to when boho-brunching is in order. Decked out with cute conservatories, colourful paint, and insta-worthy décor, this comfortably cool spot could keep you entertained for hours and has breakfast, brunch, and a la Carte options on offer.
When: Lunch: Tuesday – Thursday 12:00 – 14:30, Friday & Saturday: 12.00 - 18.00, Dinner: Monday - Sunday 18:00 – 22:00Where: Blakes Hotel London, 33 Roland Gardens, Kensington, London SW7 3PF, UK
Min Jiang
With extraordinary leafy views of Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, Min Jiang specialises in sumptuous Chinese cuisine and can be spotted at the 10th floor of the Royal Garden Hotel. With an array of delicious Dim Sum available, you'll be spoiled with choices like Blue Swimmer Crab and eclectic veggie options including warm lotus root and steamed cashew nuts in Sichuan sauce. Ask about their private dining room, and be sure to book in advance, there is no need to explain why this place gets popular in the summer.
Where: 2-24 Kensington High Street, London, W8 4PT
When: Monday to Sunday: 12:00 - 15:00 & 18:00 - 22:30
Butlers Wharf Chop House
With a balcony sporting picture perfect views of Tower Bridge and the Shad Thames, Butlers Wharf Chop House is an ideal spot to catch some rays while catching up with friends. Experts in modern and flavourful British dishes, the menu is no short of tasty chops, locally sourced seafood, and charcuterie straight from Borough Market. Bright, with a modern style and simple décor, the bar has loads of wines from around the world, together with an extensive lists of spirits and swanky draft ales. Cheers to that.Where: The Butlers Wharf Building, 36e Shad Thames, London, SE1 2YEWhen: Monday to Saturday: 12:00 - 16:00 & 18:00 - 23:00 / Sunday: 12:00 - 16:00 & 18:00 - 22:00
R.S Hispaniola
A London dining landmark for over 30 years, the R.S. Hispaniola ship boasts an upper deck that sun-lovers' dreams are made of. Anchored in at Victoria Embankment, beautiful river views can be seen on the sun terraces and upper deck bar. Nurse one of the many wines on offer while taking a peek at the menu that specialises in Modern British and European dishes like wild mushroom risotto, fresh seafood and an array of snacks.Where: River Thames, Victoria Embankment, London, WC2N 5DJWhen: Monday – Saturday: 12:00 – 23:00 / Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00 (See Bookatable for Father's Day specials)