From Aperol gardens to Italian-inspired terraces, here are some of the best London pop-ups to explore this summer
by Philippa Thomas
Looking for somewhere new and exciting to go for dinner or drinks? Check out one of the capital’s many pop-up bars and restaurants. From an elegant cocktail terrace to an al fresco Italian heaven, we’ve rounded some of the best foodie pop-ups in London for you to enjoy this summer.
6 London Pop-Up Restaurants And Bars
The Refinery
The Refinery Bankside has teamed up with Aperol to create the perfect summer retreat. The Aperol Garden is a summer terrace decked out with beautiful blooms, bright orange parasols, and a handy drinks cart. It is an ideal spot to soak up the sun and catch up with friends. To really get into the summer spirit, order one of their Aperol Spritz sharing trees and say cheers to the warm weather.
Pop Sapori
Head back to the summer of ’89 with Pop Sapori’s brand-new eatery in The Megaro Hotel, King’s Cross. Featuring acid yellow artwork by Henry Chebaane and deep bassline music from their very own radio station KXFM, this pop-up is full of youthful spirit. Their dine in and takeaway menus offer zesty handmade pasta, Italian wines, and tasty Pancetta Rolls from its in-house bakery. Visit on the weekend to try their bold-flavoured Italian brunch.
Colbert
Have you ever played pétanque? Now’s your chance thanks to drinks brand Lillet and Parisian restaurant Colbert. They have collaborated to set up ‘Pétanque on the Square’ in Chelsea’s Sloane Square, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing Lillet Spritz while trying their hand at the French game, which is similar to boules. No booking is required and the pop-up is on until September, perfect for spontaneous sunny afternoons.
The Folly
For a pink paradise, visit The Folly’s stunning new pop-up bar. The central London restaurant’s newly launched Rosé Retreat is a homage to everything floral and fuchsia. There are beautiful roses, blush cocktails, and a brightly coloured flower wall. Drinks on offer include tasters of Provencal rosés including Le Petit Ballon, Petale de Rose and Le Source Gabriel. For more of a kick there’s the Frozen Paloma, a refreshing mix of El Jimador Tequila, freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice, agave syrup and London Essence tonic.
Lina Stores
Allow yourself to be transported to Italy without leaving London with Lina Stores’
new al-fresco terrace on Lewis Cubbit Square. The outdoor space in King’s Cross offers diners a seasonal menu focusing on fresh pasta dishes such as maltagliati verdi with spring mushroom ragù and crab linguine with lemon, chilli, and garlic. For those with a sweet tooth, why not pick up an icy treat from their vintage Italian gelato cart in the square.
D&M King’s Cross
Wimbledon may have been cancelled, but that will not stop us from eating more than our fair share of strawberries. The iconic British summertime fruit forms the inspiration behind Drake & Morgan’s latest King’s Cross terrace transformation. With lush greenery and pretty foliage, the al fresco bar is reminiscent of a traditional English strawberry field. It is the perfect place to enjoy the sun and sip on some delicious cocktails. Make sure to try the Strawberry Fields G&T, featuring Martin Miller’s Gin topped with premium tonic and finished with cracked black pepper, a fresh strawberry, and plenty of ice.
Like this? Check out our pick of the best London restaurants to try this month
