Top 10: Secret Sunshine Spots in LondonBy Angelica Malin
The sun is shining. People are in a good mood. Everyone’s thinking about ice cream. Fancy a little tipple in the sunshine? Go on, you deserve it. Here’s 5 of our favourite secret sunshine spots to discover today:
1. For Sunshine Brunch: Eelbrook
Quite the hidden gem, Eelbrook is a great option if you want a country feel without leaving the city. Eelbrook’s outside dining area spills out seamlessly onto the vast Eel Brook Common – it’s a popular haunt for the Made in Chelsea crowd, but don’t let that put you off – a dynamic menu by head chef Brett Barnes and great location, this makes for the perfect spot for a delicious al fresco brunch. Think: avocado and chilli on sourdough bread with a poached egg, ricotta pancakes with blueberries and creme fraiche, and a great Full English with chorizo baked beans.
Eel Brook Common, New King’s Road, Fulham, London SW6 4SE
2. For Sunshine Picnics: Roofnic
Launching today, Roofnic is a hidden oasis accessible via a secret entrance tucked away at the far end of Oxford St near Marble Arch. The perfect spot for after work drinks, sunny lunch breaks and picnics, this secret rooftop space provides an idyllic corner to while away a warm summer afternoon while avoiding the busy shoppers on Oxford St below. The roof is decked out with AstroTurf flooring, bright retro furniture and rustic wooden benches, with cosy communal cushioned seating areas surrounded by herbs and flowers, and lightbulbs dangling from a marquee for when the English summer takes a predictable turn for the worse.
Between 533 and 535 Oxford Street, London W1C 2QW
3. For Sunshine Lunch: Gallery Mess
One of the prettiest spots in town, Gallery Mess, by the lovely leafy surroundings of the Saatchi Gallery on the Kings Road, is fantastic for al fresco dining. Their beautiful seasonal menu screams of sunny days – think light risottos, great floral cocktails and delicious British puddings – and the sunshine-soaked outdoor terrace is great for groups. But it’s our little secret, OK?
Gallery Mess, Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York HQ, Kings Road
4. For Sunshine Cocktails: Perkin Reveller
A modern British restaurant located just under Tower Bridge, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Perkin Reveller has two bars and its unique drinks list showcases cocktails from different eras: ‘Punch Bowls’ – discovery of punch in the 16th Century, ‘Gin Mills’ – Gin Act 1754’, ‘Vintage’ – early 18th Century, ‘Prohibition’ – 1920, ‘Tiki Bar’ – 1930. Perkin Reveller’s prime location isn’t just a hot spot for visitors, but a destination restaurant for all. Why not try a cocktail on the superb outdoor terrace with a view of the ancient Tower of London?
The Wharf, Tower of London, London EC3N 4AB
5. For Sunshine Dancing: Madison
Located on the Penthouse spot of One New Change, Madison boasts several rooftop terraces with great views across the City of London skyline. Cocktails, Champagne, wines and bar snacks are served on the terrace all year round, and if part of a large group then sofas can be booked. Come for the amazing views, and don’t leave without grabbing a bite at one of the fantastic restaurants at One New Change – we’d recommend some soupy noodle goodness at Pho, or a blow-out feast at Wahaca.
One New Change, 1 New Change, London EC4M 9AD
6. For Sunshine French Food: Orrery
Orrery’s rooftop terrace in Marylebone is one London’s best kept secrets. Elegantly lined with lavender and olive trees, it’s an absolutely stunning spot for enjoying some fine French cuisine. Think: French asparagus and quail egg, Dorset sea bass with horseradish cream and beautiful lime pannacotta. This June the terrace will receive a makeover with new stylish B&B Italia furniture and hurricane lamps for the perfect alfresco evening. Come and drink your white wine in the sunshine.
55 Marylebone High Street, London W1U 5RB
7. For Sunshine Sushi: Yashin Ocean House
Housed on Old Brompton Road in South Kensington, modern Japanese restaurant Yashin Ocean House has opened its terrace for the summer months. It’s some of the best sushi you can find it London – and all, surprisingly, without soya sauce. The presentation is absolutely incredible, and they have a fantastic selection of sake to be enjoyed too – try it with a sake flight, paired with your food. You can now enjoy Yashin’s inventive head-to-tail, sharing menu alfresco, together with their signature cocktails. Tuck in.
117 – 119 Old Brompton Road, London SW7 3RN
8. For Sunshine Tipples: L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
Perfect for a summery pre or post dinner drink created by the stylish and accomplished Bar Ladies, the Bar Terrace is a spectacular alfresco lounge in the heart of London that is also available for private parties, special events, and corporate hire. As well as creating fabulous cocktails with fresh ingredients and considerable flair, there’s an impressive range of wines and spirits for the connoisseur.
13-15 West Street, London WC2H 9NE
Located on Ganton Street in Central London, tapas favourite Dehesa – part of the Salt Yard Group – boasts one of the largest and prettiest terraces in Soho. Chef Director Ben Tish and his team serve up Modern Spanish Italian tapas from a daily-changing menu, as well as dishes cooked on the terrace barbecue every Wednesday and Sunday. Highlights of the menu include: charcoal grilled beef sirloin with sprouting broccoli and radish and barbecued squid with turnips, spinach and trozos de pain – all accompanied by a thoughtfully curated wine list.
25 Ganton Street, London W1F 9BP
10. For Sunshine Scallops: Tom’s Kitchen, Somerset House
Located in the beautiful surroundings of Somerset House, Tom’s Kitchen Terrace is one of London’s most popular al fresco bars with views across the river overlooking the Southbank. The terrace offers an extensive cocktail and drinks list as well as light meals and bar snacks. Expect food like new season asparagus with quail eggs, lemon & caper dressing & golden raisins, baked scallops with puff pastry, dill & sea herbs and Gueen of Puddings with brioche custard, raspberries and meringue. The terrace re-opens on the 30th May – get there quick, before everyone realises.
Strand, London WC2R 1LA
