Let’s hold onto London’s rooftop season for as long as we can! Not only because we haven’t had the chance to enjoy this summer as much as we would have liked to but because these are some of the safest spaces to hang out in while Covid-19 remains a real threat.
And the Square Mile is surprisingly packed full of rooftop bars and restaurants – even a public rooftop park which comes in the form of The Garden at 120. They’re all adding extra umbrellas and outdoor heaters so, when the rain comes down, you don’t have to hide at home.
Check out our favourite outdoor terraces and rooftops located within the City of London – each perfect for after work drinks or something a little more special.
Sushisamba
Sushisamba – the Brazilian, Peruvian and Japanese joint – is finally back up and running! The indoor restaurant is now open as well as both outdoor terraces. Choose between the sprawling city views on the East Terrace or toast the summer on the Tree Terrace under our iconic 26ft orange tree. These are the highest outdoor dining terraces in all of Europe so expect spectacular views with just the right dose of vertigo. And once you acclimatise, be sure to get around their world-class cocktails alongside some finger food before heading inside for a full-on feast.
Floor 38 & 39, Heron Tower EC2N 4AY
Yauatcha City
This high-end dim sum paradise has the best location within Broadgate Circle. It wraps around about a third of the public space, with large terraces on both sides. Sit out here on a hot summer’s day, nibbling on delicately crafted dumplings and meat filled bao buns. Add a few cheeky Asian-inspired cocktails to the experience and you’re
sorted. And, when the rain and cold inevitably return, you can still sit outside under the heaters and umbrellas opting for some heartier food and drinks. This is one of our favourite restaurants in the City of London –their terrace is simply the cherry on top.
1 Broadgate EC2M 2QS
Mercer Rooftop
We still aren’t sure why this City rooftop remains hidden from so many people. It is a brilliant spot to head up to for either a night of cocktails and nibbles or a proper sit-down dinner. In one sweep, the view from Mercer Roof Terrace takes in London’s skyline, from the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral to the glass tip of The Shard. You can even treat yourselves to a quintessentially British experience up here – the afternoon tea. Treat yourselves to cakes, crustless sandwiches and the highly coveted scone while taking in all of those marvellous London landmarks.
20 Garlick Hill EC4V 2AU
Savage Garden
The rooftop bar has had another makeover this summer, this time sponsored by Lillet. This means Lillet spritzes will be abounding on the South Terrace as people soak up the last dregs of sun this summer. But because this space looks so good, you really need to book in advance. So grab your mates together and fill up one of the many tables out on the terrace. And, of course, you can still get your afternoon tea, lunch and dinner specials as per usual.
Floor 12, 7 Pepys Street EC3N 4AF
Coq d’Argent
If you haven’t been to Coq d’Argent yet, then you best make sure you get there this year. Surely, you’ve seen the massive rooftop lawns overlooking Bank Junction and the rest of the City on Instagram before. But It’s far from being one of those tourist destinations where you get to see across London but then are inevitably underwhelmed by the food and drink options. This spot is built for locals and doesn’t skimp on quality. Either come for lunch and drinks by the lawns during the day or head over for late-night cocktails with live DJs once the sun goes down – and trust us, this is one hell of spot to see the sunset in the City.
No.1 Poultry EC2R 8EJ
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