There are a million amazing things to do in London, not least dining. You can choose to eat simply to fill yourself up, or you can choose a dining experience, that isn’t just about the food. We’ve pulled together a list of some of the best London restaurants with stunning views, so you can soak up the local scenery whilst satiating your hunger.
London is one of the world’s major global cities, and as such it offers a little something for everyone. If you’re a staunch Royalist you can visit Buckingham Palace Gardens, the Tower of London, and other places. Football fan? There are over 100 football clubs in London, so you’re bound to find one playing on any given day. Looking for a festival filled with culture and heritage? There’s the annual Notting Hill Festival, the biggest Caribbean festival in Europe.
In the midst of all of London’s culture lies food; the city is home to some of the world’s best restaurants, so much so that you’re spoilt for choice, whether you’re visiting for a long weekend, or indeed even if you live there.
Helix at the Gherkin
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Step inside the Gherkin, one of London’s most iconic buildings, and you’ll find Searcys Helix on the 39th floor. This spectacle of a restaurant offers a 360-degree panoramic sight of the city that will leave you mesmerised. Come here and indulge in afternoon tea with London’s historic landmarks as your backdrop, or try their mouth-watering Gressingham Duck Breast with Raspberry. There is no outdoor restaurant seating at Helix, but I doubt that’ll be a problem at this sky-high restaurant in one of the world’s biggest and oldest cities.
Fenchurch Restaurant at the Sky Garden
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Known locally as the Walkie-Talkie building, the Sky Garden sits atop this unique piece of architecture and is London’s highest public garden. Led by head chef Michael Carr, Fenchurch Restaurant offers a seafood-focused British menu that will leave your stomach as full as your eyes will be. You can find the swanky restaurant near Monument station and the Monument to the Great Fire of London statue, and sitting very close to the banks of the Thames.
Galvin at Windows
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If it’s purely luxury chic, fine dining and remarkable cityscape at the very top end of the market that you’re looking for, then Galvin is where you want to be. Located in the London Hilton on Park Lane in Mayfair, Galvin overlooks both Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park. All this with a menu curated by some of the world’s finest chefs at just £45 for a three-course lunch.
Aqua Shard
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A stone’s throw away from London Bridge tube station you’ll find Aqua Shard inside another of London’s iconic skyscrapers, The Shard. Set on the 31st floor, this modern restaurant, decked out with a majestic chandelier and suave interior, combines upscale dining with unparalleled views. The Aqua Shard menu is a mix of traditional British and haute cuisine fish dishes sourced locally, making it a critic’s recommendation for a fantastic romantic dinner. If you don’t fancy eating, stop by for refreshing drinks.
Hutong at The Shard
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The award-winning Hutong is a dazzling restaurant on the 33rd floor and shares the same spectacular views as Aqua, only from a slightly higher vantage point. As the second-highest restaurant at the Shard, it’s a must-see for those who enjoy dining at soaring heights and the finest dim sum. The Michelin-starred eatery has numerous locations around the world, but Hutong London does not disappoint with its floor-to-ceiling windows and extensive Hong Kong menu.
Skylon
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Located on the uber-cool Southbank, with entertainment and art at your doorstep, Skylon isn’t as high in the sky as other restaurants on this list, but the panorama it offers is just as impeccable. Whilst only being found on the 3rd floor, Skylon offers views of Westminster and St Paul’s Cathedral. Boasting a menu of classic British cuisine, you can expect to nibble on Celeriac & Truffle Risotto, Sirloin Steak, Colchester Rock Oyster, and so much more. If you’re not in the mood for a splendid dinner, try their infamous weekend Skylon brunch, where a DJ plays tunes all afternoon.
Bokan 37
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Bokan 37, a restaurant and bar situated inside Novotel Canary Wharf, is spread across three floors, offering postcard views of London’s famous skyline. Towering over many of the finance area’s high-rises, the industrial-themed Bokan 37 invites guests to dine in a warm and laid-back setting where the best of European cuisine is served. Stop by if you’re in the mood for high-altitude dining, sunset viewing from the full-length windows, or a Sunday brunch.
Union Social at the Gantry London
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Step into the dimly-lit Union Social at the Gantry, where wraparound windows await, offering alluring vista. With its lounge setting and terrace, the Stratford restaurant is run by Sicilian Executive Chef Salvatore Coco, who has created an eclectic menu with dishes like Homemade Portuguese Style Salted Cod Fritters and Grilled Vannamei Shrimps. Find a corner inside the chic venue or step out on the spacious terrace for an open-air drink.
