As London's skyline continues to evolve with the addition of new skyscrapers, the city's dining scene is reaching new heights as well. With an increasing number of rooftop restaurants offering breathtaking views, visitors and locals alike can now enjoy a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
While some of these restaurants may come with a higher price tag, they provide an opportunity to indulge in not only exquisite cuisine but also unparalleled panoramas of central London and beyond. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable night out, these rooftop establishments are sure to leave a lasting impression.
One such noteworthy rooftop restaurant is Sushisamba, located in the heart of the city. With its prime position atop a high-rise building, it offers a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavors in an elegant setting. The stunning views of London's skyline serve as the perfect backdrop for an evening of culinary exploration.
To make the most of your visit to the British capital, finding the perfect place to stay is key. Accommodation like the Hampton by Hilton Docklands at http://hampton-by-hilton-docklands.hotels-of-london.com/en/ offers comfortable and convenient lodging options, positioning you close to the vibrant dining and entertainment options London has to offer.
So, if you're willing to treat yourself to a truly enchanting dining experience and immerse yourself in the beauty of London from above, these rooftop restaurants are a must-visit. Whether it's a shimmering sunset or a sparkling skyline at night, the panoramic vistas on offer will undoubtedly create memories that will last a lifetime.
Galvin at Windows, Hyde Park
Opened in 2006, Galvin at Windows offers a delightful dining experience that may not boast the same flashy glamour as newer City venues, but it compensates with years of experience and impeccable service. The knowledgeable and attentive team ensures a seamless dining experience, complemented by a Michelin-starred menu featuring exquisitely presented and innovative French dishes. As a memento or to impress friends, diners are presented with Galvin at Windows postcards, which can be sent anywhere as a gesture from the restaurant.
Despite the restaurant's age, the clientele predominantly comprises patrons seeking a leisurely and high-quality dining experience, rather than being driven by the latest dining trends. This ensures a relaxed and refined atmosphere, making it the perfect choice for those looking to indulge in an exceptional meal with breathtaking views of Hyde Park.
When it comes to picturesque dining experiences in London, Galvin at Windows is a must-visit. Perched on the 28th floor of the Hilton Park Lane hotel, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of Hyde Park and the sprawling city skyline.
As you gaze out from the restaurant's panoramic windows, you'll witness the sight of London's iconic landmarks such as St. Paul's Cathedral and the towering skyscrapers of the City. To enhance your experience, consider stopping by the bar for a drink before or after your meal, allowing you to soak in the stunning vistas of central London.
The Aqua Shard Experience
When you make your way to the top of The Shard, London's charm and details may look exceptionally tiny. However, the middle levels of the soaring structure are home to some fantastic restaurants that offer an ideal vantage point for appreciating the more intricate aspects of the city. Provided you only opt for a cocktail, your experience should be fairly pocket friendly as well. Nestled on the 31st floor of this iconic building, you can discover Aqua Shard, a tantalisingly dim space that oozes sophistication. So dark in fact, it would be wise to tread carefully if you've had issues with dim lighting before.
Offering a platform for Dale Osborne's culinary expertise (previously seen at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal), this restaurant presents modern takes on British favorites. Dishes may include robust main courses like pork belly complemented by barley, turnips, and crackling, culminating in a delightful cherry bakewell tart paired with Cornwall's exquisite homemade ice cream. Given the impressive views this venue offers, it's no surprise that most patrons seem content with the familiar and professionally executed flavours served in the menu.
The awe-inspiring aqua shard offers a breathtaking panoramic view that encompasses the iconic Tower of London, the majestic skyscrapers of the City, and the glistening St Paul's Cathedral, all overlooking the serene meandering Thames. To fully immerse yourself in this mesmerizing scenery, it is essential to secure a coveted window table, granting you an unparalleled dining experience. However, even if you find yourself seated within the restaurant's interior, fear not, for you will still be treated to an unobstructed view of the boundless sky.
If, for some reason, you encounter difficulty in securing a reservation at aqua shard, there is an enticing alternative - their bar. Uniting the best of British flavors, the bar beckons visitors with an array of exquisite gin- and tea-based cocktails. Embark on a whimsical journey through the taste buds and savor the essence of Britannia while indulging in the bar's delightful concoctions.
Redefining Sky Dining at The Gherkin
Situated on the 39th floor of The Gherkin, Helix restaurant offers a dining experience like no other. This iconic skyscraper, with its distinctive curved and latticed facade, provides a breathtaking backdrop as diners indulge in a menu that perfectly complements its British architectural heritage.
Emphasizing seasonality and local sourcing, Helix showcases dishes that celebrate the best of British cuisine. Start your culinary journey with the delightful combination of English asparagus and Dorset crab, followed by the exquisite Rhug Estate Welsh lamb paired with bell pepper and courgette. The dishes, though not groundbreaking, are beautifully presented and reflect the restaurant's commitment to quality.
While the prices may be on the higher side, the exceptional wine selection, attentive service, and the sheer joy of dining within one of Europe's architectural gems compensate for it. The rooftop bar, Iris, offers a chance to marvel at the rounded tip that forms the pinnacle of The Gherkin, adding an extra touch of magic to your dining experience.
Experience London's ever-changing cityscape from the rooftop of Helix. As you admire the iconic Gherkin, you'll also enjoy a panoramic view of the financial district and the chance to spot landmarks like St Paul's Cathedral. The bustling skyline, dominated by towering structures like the Cheesegrater, Walkie-Talkie, and Heron Tower, creates an awe-inspiring backdrop for your dining experience.
While gazing at the city's magnificent architecture, you might find the view of the Shard and other central London areas partially obscured by the construction boom happening nearby. Yet, with so much happening in the immediate vicinity, this isn't a concern. There's an abundance of sights to take in, ensuring that your dining experience at Helix is truly unforgettable.
Tate Modern's 9th Level Delights
Perched on the ninth floor of the Switch House, the Tate Modern extension masterfully designed by Herzog & de Meuron, lies the gem that is this 150-seater restaurant. The establishment prides itself in its dedication to UK native produce, with almost all ingredients locally sourced, down to the beer that proudly hails from Bermondsey nearby. Although the serving size of side dishes may lean towards the conservative, the dining experience generally meets expectations. During my initial visit, the cooking team complemented with a skilled and courteous team provided a versatile menu that aimed to cater to varied dining preferences of London's gourmets as well as the abundant annual influx of roughly five million tourists who flock to this cultural hub.
However, a subsequent visit has slightly eroded my confidence in the setup. The service was noticeably delayed and chaotic, largely due to the debut of a perplexing new menu that evening. An important factor to consider is maintaining consistency in quality while introducing novelty. London's food scene is vibrant and ever-changing with culinary innovation coming from sources like food markets such as the one in Borough Market, making competition fierce.
Tate Modern restaurant Level 9
If you're looking for breathtaking views of London, head to the Tate Modern restaurant on Level 9. Unlike other rooftop restaurants, the tables inside may have narrower windows, but they offer a unique perspective of the city skyline.
From these intimate vantage points, you can catch glimpses of iconic landmarks such as the Shard and St Paul's Cathedral. While seated directly beside the windows may not provide a full view, the distant panorama still enchants and allures.
Whether you're enjoying a delicious meal or simply sipping a drink, this restaurant promises an extraordinary visual feast, even if it's just in snippets.
Fenchurch - A Dining Experience Above the Rest
Nestled at the zenith of the iconic Walkie Talkie skyscraper, officially called 20 Fenchurch Street, the Fenchurch Restaurant reigns in culinary supremacy over the other establishments within the Sky Garden. This elevated dining platform sets the stage for a "British contemporary" gastronomic performance, where each dish is a masterstroke of presentation and taste. The vibrantly plated red mullet, seared to perfection and paired with braised octopus and piperade, is a palate explosion, while the lamb, garnished with yoghurt, artichokes, and cumin, delightfully blends robust flavours with a pleasingly unassuming elegance. New patrons should be prepared—not only by the meticulous service of the staff and their enthusiastic wine steward—but by the unanticipated, though aesthetic, structural interference of the view. Even though the sloping rooftop engineering may orient the tables towards imposing iron beams and limit the expansive city vista, the joy of the experience at Fenchurch is primarily centered around the plate and glass rather than the view.
Experience an exquisite dining experience atop London's skyline at Fenchurch Restaurant. Indulge in a delectable dessert while taking in the breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as St Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and a glimpse of the serene river.
For the ultimate city vista, we recommend visiting the Sky Garden bar before or after your meal. Sip on a refreshing beverage while immersing yourself in the panoramic views that stretch across the sprawling metropolis.
Sushisamba
Sushisamba, a rapidly expanding chain of restaurants, has established its presence in cities like New York, Chicago, Miami, and more. In London, you can find its branch located on the 38th and 39th floors of the Heron Tower in the heart of the City. As you dine here, you might catch glimpses of business deals being negotiated at neighboring tables, yet the welcoming staff and lively ambiance make it a popular spot for couples enjoying a night out.
This unique dining experience in London offers a breathtaking view from its elevated location, allowing patrons to enjoy panoramic sights of the city's skyline. The hypnotic blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine adds a touch of excitement to your palate, making Sushisamba a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and city admirers alike.
The menu offers a unique fusion of tastes, where Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavors unite. Notably, the eatery prides itself on offering one of the most extensive sake collections throughout London. Gastronomic delights such as shrimp tempura coupled with thinly sliced snap peas and accented with a black truffle vinaigrette are part of the small plates selection (priced at an average of £14). Patrons can also choose from an array of sushi and sashimi variaties. Additionally, "large plates" that stand out include sea bass tempura complemented with beetroot ceviche. An integral part of the dining experience is executive chef Claudio Cardoso. He is at the forefront of London's mindful dining movement, supporting environmental organisations and initiatives, particularly Cool Earth, dedicated to the preservation of rainforests. Chef Cardoso is known for his able discourse on sustainable luxury dining in London.
Be prepared for a feast for the eyes as well.
The majority of the seating arrangements offer a panoramic view of east London, ranging from Bishopsgate to the Olympic Park, Canary Wharf, and Tower Bridge. The establishment features an outdoor terrace and a bar, with both spaces particularly popular during the summer months, as well as an indoor bar offering an exclusive view of the Gherkin. The glass-fronted elevator ride up to the restaurant, swiftly ascending, is an adventure unto itself.
B&H Garden Room: A Hidden Oasis Above Leicester Square
Discovering a rooftop restaurant in the midst of the buildings surrounding Leicester Square may come as a surprise, but Bourne & Hollingsworth has ingeniously turned the 10th floor of the Assembly Hotel on Charing Cross Road into a haven for dining enthusiasts.
Immerse yourself in a culinary journey that showcases the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The diverse menu encompasses an array of European delicacies, catering to all dining preferences including breakfast, brunch, a la carte, and special theatre menus. For our evening meal, my companion and I indulged in a generous portion of cod complemented with flavorful puy lentils and zingy salsa verde. Although satisfying, we both agreed that the dish lacked a touch of seasoning and failed to leave a lasting impression.
Anticipating a delightful ending to the meal, I eagerly sampled the fruit crumble paired with luscious custard. Regrettably, the fruit component turned out to be disappointingly like a thick smoothie, while the custard resembled thin milk. Despite these minor setbacks, B&H Garden Room remains an intriguing choice for an elevated dining experience, boasting panoramic views of the city skyline.
Courtesy of Bourne & Hollingsworth
Indulge your senses with the breathtaking atmosphere and stunning vistas provided by B&H Garden Room. Head skyward and uncover this hidden oasis amidst the bustling streets of Leicester Square.
B&H Garden Room offers a unique dining experience in London with its impressive 180-degree panorama view. Located just a minute's walk from Trafalgar Square, this hidden gem provides a less crowded and more relaxed atmosphere compared to other popular rooftop restaurants in the city.
With an average main course price of about £16, B&H Garden Room offers a more affordable option without compromising on the quality of food or service. The friendly staff and creatively crafted cocktail list, featuring drinks made with herbs and spices, ensure a consistently enjoyable dining experience.
What sets B&H Garden Room apart is its breathtaking view. The floor-to-ceiling glass walls allow guests to take in iconic London landmarks such as the City, Canary Wharf, the Shard, the London Eye, Nelson's Column, and the Houses of Parliament. Even lifelong Londoners may be surprised by the stunning panorama on offer at this hidden rooftop gem.
The Ting Experience
‘Ting’, the name for the versatile dining space that ties its roots back to its Chinese translation for 'living room', might be a tad bit extraordinary as it sits cosily on the 35th floor of the Shangri-La at the Shard hotel. The panoramic views this restaurant offers of London's skyline are unmatched, but even before you catch a glimpse of the view, you're met with an effervescent and genuinely amiable staff. Every guest is graced with a hospitality that gives the place an exceptionally homey yet sophisticated feel.
Centre stage on the culinary front, the kitchen is steered with finesse by Chef Jeremy Brown, whose contemporary British menu comprises season-centric dishes that are as visually appealing as they are flavorsome. Each course, right from starters to desserts, has an inherent seasonal touch topped off with smartly suggested wine pairings. Take the Heritage Beetroot Salad with truffle goat's curd or the Orchard Farm pork served with salt-baked pineapple, for instance, they are perfectly balanced to satiate the palate. And the winter spiced trifle, a sumptuous dessert replete with the essence of orange, tonga bean, and mace custard, echoes the seasonal theme.
Ting restaurant offers not only exceptional cuisine but an artistic presentation that rivals even the stunning views it showcases. The immersive dining experience at the Shard creates a celebratory atmosphere, where you might find yourself surrounded by fellow diners commemorating special occasions, adding an extra touch of magic to your visit.
While the interiors of Ting may vary in opinion, the real star here is the breathtaking view. If obtaining a reservation proves challenging, consider opting for a different experience by enjoying the magnificent sunsets from outside the restaurant, along the riverside. Afterward, indulge in a post-sundowner at the Gong on the 52nd floor, another remarkable establishment within the Shangri-la hotel.
Gong offers an exquisite space divided into three distinct areas: a cocktail bar, champagne bar, and the awe-inspiring Sky Pool. The cocktails served here are as innovative as they are delicious, presented in unique receptacles that spark conversations of their own. Inspired by ingenious inventions, these concoctions are bound to leave a lasting impression.
Experience London's finest views and culinary artistry at Ting's rooftop restaurant, where every aspect promises an unforgettable occasion.
Review by Claire Irvin
Spotlight: Duck & Waffle
Upon initial arrival at Duck & Waffle, nestled on the 40th storey of the illustrious Heron Tower, I encountered a somewhat aloof welcome from an ostentatious concierge, leading to unimpressive first impressions. Experiencing fluctuations in service efficiency during my stay - sometimes languid, occasionally overzealous - the atmosphere nonetheless maintained a laid-back, spontaneous essence. In comparison to its downstairs counterpart, Sushisamba, this destination presents itself as competitively priced, caters to a broader demographic, and provides an assortment of appealing food options.
Duck & Waffle, known for its breathtaking view of the city, offers a unique dining experience 24 hours a day. Their diverse menu includes European comfort foods like seared octopus with nduja or asparagus with English burrata, as well as main courses such as beer-braised rabbit with greens and spinach and ricotta ravioli. From breakfast to brunch, late-night bites, and group menus, the restaurant caters to all tastes. With mains priced at around £19, dining at Duck & Waffle is a memorable experience that won't break the bank (although some may find the signature dish, duck and waffle, a bit underwhelming).
Diners at Duck & Waffle can anticipate an exhilarating elevator ride that rivals that of Sushisamba, offering a similar panoramic view. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy breathtaking sights including landmarks like the Gherkin, Tower Bridge, and Canary Wharf, all amidst the sprawling landscape of East London.
Delving into Hutong
Soaring above on the 33rd floor of the Shard, the invitingly darkened yet elegant Hutong is another eatery that towers above London's cityscapes. As the welcoming server informed us, the restaurant's culinary undertones trace back to the "spicy and numbing" flavors typical of Sichuan cuisine. This reflects in their wide-ranging menu, featuring an abundance of dim sum, an assortment of dumplings, delectable roasted Peking duck, crunchy oysters and hearty beef ribs delicately served in lotus leaves.
Our dining experience reached its crescendo with the sichuan-styled lobster, perfectly fried and paired with a robust sauce of chilli, black beans and dried garlic. An interesting twist comes from their bar - an array of cocktails (averaging around £16), each showcasing a surprising yet delightful mix of flavors. Have you ever heard of another London bar emphasizing diverse ingredients that include unusual items like squid ink, pancakes, and Peking duck right alongside conventional spirits and mixers?
Hutong, located in London, offers diners breathtaking views of central London, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city from a unique perspective. With windows tables available, lucky patrons can indulge in a truly spectacular panorama while enjoying their meal at aqua shard.
Not only does Hutong provide stunning views, but it also offers a diverse menu filled with delicious Chinese cuisine. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, diners can expect a culinary experience that matches the beauty of their surroundings. Whether visiting for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a memorable meal, Hutong guarantees an unforgettable dining experience in London's iconic cityscape.