As London heads into the dreaded Tier Two lockdown, here’s a list of the best outdoor dining spaces where you can still enjoy a catch up with your mates.
Signature cocktails and Italian flare at The Dorchester Terrace & Garden
The iconic London hotel houses the ultimate, picturesque alfresco hotspot. Cosy up under a warming heater and be soothed by the surrounding greenery, all whilst sipping on one of the six new cocktails commemorating some of the most inspiring people and moments in The Dorchester’s rich history. If you’re feeling peckish, there’s a feast of a menu inspired by the flavours of Italy. Dishes include Wild mushroom truffle arancini; and Smoked ricotta and roast pumpkin ravioli, sage butter and hazelnuts. dorchestercollection.com
French terrace vibes at Frenchie Covent Garden
The darling Covent Garden restaurant, and sister to Paris’ famed Frenchie Ru du Nil, now has its own French terrace. On cobbled Henrietta Street right beside Covent Garden Plaza, guests can enjoy bottles of cold rose, twists on French classic cooking and proper French hospitality. Seasonal dishes include Delicia Pumpkin & Ricotta Tortellini, Amaretti, Sage & Smoked Egg Yolk. frenchiecoventgarden.com
Spanish Tapas in the British Winter sunshine at Pluma, Amersham
Hidden at the back of this local gem is a stunning outdoor terrace that glows in the Winter sunshine. Pluma has fast become Amersham’s food hotspot for locals and travellers alike, serving traditional, regional Spanish cuisine. The menu celebrates the humble and vivacious flavours of Spain, using a clever blend of local ingredient alongside regionally sourced Spanish produce. Visit for the sought-after signature dish, Pluma: Acorn-fed 100% Iberian pork– sweet, sticky and marinaded in chef Luis’ secret recipe. plumarestaurants.com
Seafood specialities and dinner with a view at Rick Stein, Barnes
If it’s top-notch fish and seafood you’re after, then look no further than Rick Stein, Barnes. Located on the banks of the River Thames the restaurant delivers a sanctuary from fast-paced London life with fantastic views and a nod to Rick’s Cornish heritage. The menu celebrates the finest fish and seafood from Cornwall and some of our most iconic Seafood Restaurant dishes such as Dover sole, Indonesian seafood curry and lobster thermidor. There is a large, covered outdoor terrace which is perfect autumnal al fresco dining by the water. www.rickstein.com
Classic cocktails and Moorish nibbles on the all-weather Terrace at The Stafford
If a classic cocktail is your thing, then look no further than The American Bar at The Stafford, London. One of the longest surviving American Bars in London, it is the place to be if you like a slice of history alongside a perfectly shaken martini from bar director, Benoit Provost. Out the back of The American Bar is a beautiful all-weather terrace, perfect for enjoying drinks and nibbles under waterproof awnings and kept cosy with blankets and outdoor heaters. To eat, Culinary Director Ben Tish has created a delicious menu of large and small plates, ideal for a quick lunch for one, or lengthy drinks and snacks with friends. Dishes include the likes of signature Crab and chilli stuffed doughnuts; Pickled mussels, aioli and soda bread or Free-range chicken kiev with truffle butter and pomme puree. www.thestaffordlondon.com
Outdoor dining from D&D London at Bluebird Chelsea, Madison and Coq d’Argent
D&D London offers arguably some of the best terraces in London, renowned for transforming them season by season. Fortunately, they are year-round spaces, allowing for outdoor dining in the autumn and winter months. The free front runners have to be Bluebird Chelsea; Madison, St Pauls and Coq d’Argent, The City. Whether it’s brunch and bubbles at Bluebird, live music and cocktails at Madison or delicious French fayre at Coq d’Argent, D&D will ensure you do it in style and comfort with waterproof coverings and heaters. www.danddlondon.com
Sicilian sips and snacks at Norma
If you can’t go without your fix of Sicilian delights then you’re in luck as Norma, Charlotte St still has outdoor seating. Covered by a large awning, feast on snacks, small plates, homemade pasta and large sharing dishes, washed down with plenty of Sicilian vino. With Culinary Director, Ben Tish at the helm, you’re guaranteed a real treat, whatever the weather. www.normalondon.com
Bisushima: Japanese cuisine overlooking Trafalgar Square
Launching in winter 2020 will be Bisushima: a modern Japanese restaurant with a transformative vibe and atmosphere, taking diners from a tranquil breakfast, through to a lively and up-tempo dinner service. Located within the newly refurbished Page8 hotel, Covent Garden, the restaurant occupies the sixth floor. The 6,000 square foot venue proudly boasts a separate bar area and two large external roof terraces, directly overlooking iconic Trafalgar Square and the bottom of Covent Garden. Accommodating over 190 covers in total, it’s easily set to become one of the largest rooftop venues in the area. www.bisushima.com
Transport yourself to the lavender-filled fields of Provence with Mirabeau
In need of an escape without the 14 days quarantine period and tier 2 restrictions? This month, let Mirabeau transport you from the cobbled streets of Covent Garden to the lavender-filled fields of Provence, with the help of their pink portable bar, Coco. To celebrate the extended London Cocktail Week (now London Cocktail Month), Mirabeau en Provence is delighted to announce that its Airstream bar, Coco, will be parked up on the Northside of Covent Garden every weekend this October. Until Sunday 1st November, every Thursday – Sunday, Coco will be offering award-winning dry Rosé Gin cocktails, beautifully chilled rosé, and a delicious range of cocktails including Mirabeau’s refreshing Spritz en Provence, and London Cocktail Month’s signature serve, the Spiced Pear Collins. Alongside its rosé based cocktail, Mirabeau will be serving its iconic range of rosé wines including, Pure, La Folie and Prêt-à-Porter.
Drinks are available to purchase from Coco in Covent Garden by all, however, prices on the cocktails are discounted for those participating in London Cocktail Month. London Cocktail Month wristbands are available to purchase for £15, bringing the cost of each cocktail down to £6. www.mirabeauwine.com
