Dine in style with ten of the best restaurants with a view in London
By Joy Montgomery
London is home to some of the hottest and most sought-after restaurants in the world. When it comes to restaurants with a view, the big smoke knocks it out the park every time. From historic landmarks and soaring skyscrapers to lush parks and riverside views, London has it all. Perfect for a special occasion or just an after work drink (or two), we’ve rounded up ten of the best restaurants with a view in London.
Beautiful Restaurants with a view in London
URBAN COTERIE
Situated in the bustling heart of Old Street, Urban Coterie restaurant, bar and lounge is on the 17th floor of the M by Mountcalm Hotel. With stunning views over east London, the light-filled, stylish restaurant delivers a menu of ingredient-led seasonal cooking.
MIN JIANG
Chinese restaurant Min Jiang is placed in the centre of fashionable Kensington on the tenth floor of the Royal Garden Hotel. The dining room has stunning views over Kensington Gardens, offering a rare panoramic landscape of luscious green canopies in the midst of the big smoke.
NATIONAL PORTRAIT RESTAURANT
The National Gallery’s Portrait Restaurant’s celebrated view stretches from Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square, down Whitehall to the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and the London Eye. The elegant interiors are a fitting accompaniment Matthew Harris’ menu – expect generous, carefully considered British dishes using first-rate produce.
AQUA KYOTO
Hidden above the swarming streets of Regent Street, Aqua Kyoto is the contemporary Japanese restaurant with one show-stopping terrace. Best to visit at night when lanterns are lit and the cityscape comes to life.
BARBECOA
Jamie Oliver’s Barbecoa is crouched in the shadow of St Pauls Cathedral’s epic dome and grand 17th century architecture. Enjoy the decadent steakhouse and BBQ menu within the confines of the restaurant’s glamorous 1920s interiors.
COQ D’ARGENT
Located in the heart of the city, Coq d’Argent is within close proximity to St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and the Southbank. The French restaurant and brasserie serves an all-day French menu and evening cocktails in the midst of a unique heated rooftop garden. A little bit of paradise amongst the skyscrapers.
SKY GARDEN
A magnificent three-floor space, Sky Garden hosts two of the most exclusive rooftop restaurants in London: Fenchurch Restaurant and Darwin Brasserie, and two exciting rooftop bars: Sky Pod Bar and City Garden. Sky Pod Rooftop Bar is open all day from early morning coffees, through to lunchtime bites and afternoon drinks, while at night it comes alive with music, lights and cocktails.
LE PONT DE LA TOUR
A luxurious riverside destination with iconic views, Le Pont de la Tour offers traditional yet innovative French cuisine. An elegant, 19th-century former tea warehouse, the restaurant sits alongside Tower Bridge and offers alfresco dining on the stylish terrace.
AQUA SHARD
Fast becoming one of the most iconic views of London, Aqua Shard is the ultimate venue for special occasions. Offering a modern take on traditional British produce, the chic interiors include soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, revealing a panoramic view of London’s skyline.
SUSHI SHAMBA
Sushi Samba is housed on the 38th floor of Heron Tower, offering Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian sushi in a design-savvy setting. With locations in Las Vegas, Miami Beach and NYC, London’s offering is in good company, boasting the highest outdoor dining terrace in Europe. The result is unparalleled, 360 degree views of the City.
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