The 10 best rooftop restaurants in London
Aqua Nueva's Spanish inspired menu, drinks and design in their Spirit Bar make you feel as though you're sat on the balcony of a townhouse in Madrid rather than in the heart of London. The richly flavoured tapas is the perfect accompaniment for Spanish wines and cocktails. They also have a strong list of tequilas and mezcals for when the night gets going.
The interiors at Booking Office 1869, housed inside the St. Pancras Renaissance hotel, get all of the attention, but its sunny rooftop lounge is worthy of equal praise. Laid-back deck chairs, a menu of both classic and signature cocktails, beers, wines and everything in between make it easy to understand why this is a local favourite.
Bokan 39, part of the restaurant's three-pronged offering, combines industrial chic on the inside, with relaxed garden vibes outside. The views over Canary Wharf and the banking district are to die for, and the handcrafted cocktails are inspired by the history of London's Docklands.
Angler's modern British menu has been pared down for those looking to enjoy it on the floral 7th-floor terrace inside the South Place Hotel. Delicious food can't come without delicious drinks, and their in-depth wine list divided up by country has something for every occasion.
Mostly taken up by greenery during the day, and elegantly lit at night, Coq d'Argent's rooftop not only has some of the best views of the city, but some of the best French cuisine too. The restaurant actually has four terraces, where you can enjoy all the classics either alfresco or under cover paired with plates selected by the Head Chef.
14 Hills' inside dining space is dripping in plant life, but the roof garden is refreshingly open, complete with shady umbrellas and City of London views. The bar hosts frequent live music sets and has a sweet and sour cocktail menu any mixologist would be proud of.
Despite Seabird being famous for boasting London's longest oyster menu, this rooftop bar and restaurant with skyline views is ideal for just a tipple. Cosy cushions and plants make it feel like a jungle oasis, and to match the vibe in summer, choose a fruity frozen cocktail or some sparkling wine.
Alto by San Carlo, perched on the side of Selfridge's department store, is London's answer to a summer in Tuscany. White tablecloths and roof beams wrapped with lemon tree vines provide a city escape - whether you're enjoying an Italian coffee, evening aperols or an upscale dinner.
Panoramic city veiws take centre stage at Japanese-Latin American Sushisamba and their rooftop bar, illuminated by glittering lights with their iconic red tree as a centrepiece, is the place to go to impress. The cocktails and wine are excellent, but the chance to enjoy bar snacks like wagyu gyoza and eggplant tempura is the cherry on top.
Expect a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean brunch at the Coal Office, created by Israeli chef Assaf Granit and acclaimed designer Tom Dixon. Polished yet rich flavours are at the heart of the brunch menu, which includes both meze-style small plates and meaty mains, as well as an extensive selection of dips.