The Good News is Londoners, we can still go out!
One of the reasons we live in this great city is for the abundance of dining options and lucky for us, a lot of it is outdoors….
So here at Greater London Properties, we have put our heads together to offer you our top 10 Alfresco Restaurants so you can make the most of winter in our capital.
1. Just around the corner from us on Drury Lane is Barrafina Mariscos which specialises in authentic seafood. With cosy heaters, outdoor parasols and the much loved Spanish ambiance, it’s a great sociable Covent Garden option for an evening out with friends.
2. Another local sea food favourite of ours is the traditional but relaxed Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill. It’s year-round heated terrace is just off Regents Street but don’t be put off, its surprisingly quiet and offers highlights from the main menu inside. Our favourite is the fish pie, and our advice is to get there early!
3. Slightly north in Exmouth Market is the popular Caravan restaurant, one of five in its chain across the city. It’s hit or miss whether you secure seating under the awning, however if you get a milder night this place delivers awesome post work cocktails, tapas options and an incredible breakfast menu. Plus it’s impossible to walk past without grabbing one of their delicious house-roasted coffees.
4. To guarantee a table, head to Pergola Paddington Central which accommodates 850 covered heated seats and communal tables, plus day beds, DJ’s and a roof to shelter in the rain. During the winter months they have promised an urban winter forest and booking is available.
5. Closer to home in the fabulous Carnaby Street is Shoryu which offers Japanese food which won’t cost you the earth. With parasols and outdoor heaters, it’s a great Soho option and the food won’t let you down. If you don’t fancy going out, order in one of their quirky DIY kits and cook up a feast in your own kitchen instead!
6. The outdoor options in Kings Cross are endless, however head to Vinoteca for a warm-weather terrace overlooking the walkway to the Canal. With a thoughtful wine list, an array of nibbling dishes and a full European Menu – you can people watch until the curfew is called.
7. The Bleeding Heart, Holborn has always been a firm favourite due to consistently incredible food and a traditional menu that simply never disappoints. The elegant restaurant sits within a secluded courtyard in the midtown, outdoor tables are bookable and you get a blanket thrown in for good measure.
8. With no need for an introduction, the infamous Chiltern Firehouse offers contemporary modern food in the heart of Marylebone. The beautiful, sheltered courtyard offers heaters, blankets, lanterns and is simply magical, however be warned, the prices remain eye watering.
9. Back to Soho to our favourite South American restaurant, Casita Andina. With only 3 tables situated in this atmospherically lit courtyard space, it’s first come first served however well worth the wait. With a retractable awning, traditional yet modern menu, be warned you will be drinking Pisco Sours until 10pm!
10. Finally, outdoor dining at its very best, Kingly Court, Soho. With a number of great food options my personal favourite is Whyte and Brown. Lovely outdoor seating, fantastic and healthy (ish) menu – mostly chicken dishes, and great staff – it’s an easy hang out that’s affordable.
In current times our advice is where possible, plan and book ahead, but ultimately let’s support these fantastic restaurants in Central London. The choices are endless and as always, we feel privileged to have them all our doorstep.
For more ideas or general information on where to eat, shop or just need advice from other locals, join the Central London’s Lockdown Support Network on Facebook which was set up to support and promote all the local business’s in and around Central London. If you’re a local business feel free to join and share any news you have.
Our Greater London Properties team are always on hand to offer advice about our local areas. Please give us a call on 0207 734 4062 today or visit our website www.glp.co.uk.
Warm Regards
Kate Hill