Our Great British Summer has officially begun, and it's been a glorious one thus far! The warm weather has us all yearning to eat outside, whether it's picnics in the park or afternoon tea on the terrace; in true British fashion we lap up every moment. (After all it does rain for three-quarters of the year.)
As it's the season to get outside I thought I'd share my favortie hot spots. Tried, tested and thoroughly enjoyed, here's my guide to drinking and dining Alfresco in the capital!
1) Chiltern Firehouse
Since opening in February of this year Chiltern Firehouse has quickly become London’s hottest celeb magnet, and destination for dinning out. Getting a table isn’t an easy feat, with a waiting list the length of The Thames! However bagging a table in their gated courtyard this summer is a possibility for everyone; with a no reservation policy it’ll be a test of patience to win your perch in this secluded oasis.
With brassie style chairs (which mirror the décor inside) and patio heaters, it’s London’s hottest spot for pre-supper cocktails.
1 Chiltern St, Marylebone, W1U 7PA
2) The Bluebird
This iconic Chelsea landmark is an old favorite, with staying power! Always bustling day through night, it’s a local neighborhood restaurant on a grand scale. The Bluebird consists of 5 parts, the bar & restaurant, cafe & courtyard, the bakery, food store and boutique. It's a venue with something for everyone. However my favorite way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon is in the courtyard sipping champagne and drinking up the sun!
This summer their Terrace plays host to a pop-up Moét & Chandon “Beach” with a mouthwatering BBQ menu, and mini sandbox. Great for an Instagram moment #bbsummerselfie
Oh and if you’re a fan of the tennis, The Bluebird will be screening the Wimbledon fortnight live from Courtyard. It’s become somewhat of a tradition, and each year they fill the center carousel with giant tennis balls! If you don’t have tickets to the Men’s Finals this is the next best spot to watch the match. Head Chef Robert Izdebski has created a 3 course menu for the occasion, which you can wash down with Pimm’s & Champagne. All of the desert options sound utterly scrumptious… I mean how do you chose between Eton Mess & Pimm’s Jelly – I’ll take both! Game-set-match!
350 King's Road, Chelsea SW3 5UU
3) The Summerhouse
For a city escape without leaving London The Summerhouse is the perfect remedy. Situated on the Canal in Little Venice, you can enjoy waterfront views of nostalgic barges and the odd family of passing ducks. The interior echoes a summer beach house, with whitewashed wood, pebbled floor and nautical knick-knacks a plenty. The seats are even up-holstered with navy and white pinstripes, very maritime-chic.
If your summer is lacking a trip to the British Coast this year then this is the next best thing. They have the most mouthwatering seafood platter, and Fish & Chips which is second to none; a taste of the seaside minus the sand!
60 Blomfield Road, London W9 2PA
Other favortites include...
Mazi
Mazi (which means 'together') serves authentic Greek food to share from a tapas style menu. In the Heart of Notting Hill you can escape to Greece for a few moments on their charming garden patio. This gem is an idyllic place for supper with friends without breaking the bank.
12- 14 Hillgate Street, Notting Hill W8 7SR
202 London
This trendy café has become somewhat of a destination, a favorite with local celebrities, and ladies-that-lunch. It’s easy to see why, boasting a designer boutique, café and secluded garden out the back. However it’s their narrow pavement-patio that draws the regulars. A suntrap morning through night it’s always packed; a brilliant spot to enjoy a good coffee and a spot of people watching.
202 Westbourne Grove, London W11 2SB
The Phene
This popular pub lies on residential corner in Chelsea. With heritage reaching back to 1853 The Phene has evolved with the times into on a chic saloon bar. Packed on Friday night’s it’s a happening spot to be, and be seen. But if you don’t fancy the hustle and bustle of the bar then the leafy patio is the place for you.
9 Phene Street, Chelsea SW3 5NY
The Boundary Rooftop
Neighbor to the famous Shoreditch House, you can enjoy the same panoramic views of the cityscape without the membership fee. It’s the perfect spot for sundowners; get comfy in a wicker lounge chair with an ice cold Blackberry Mojito, and watch the sun-set over London.
2-4 Boundary Street, Shoreditch E2 7DD
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