Whether you’re after a roof terrace bar when the sun’s out or a dinner with a view, here are the best rooftop bars and restaurants in London to book right now.
LessThere’s a buzzing new rooftop in town that’s set to be the hottest hangout this summer. Opened in April 2024 by the founders of Los Mochis Notting Hill, Los Mochis London City brings an unparalleled dining experience to the heart of The City. Blending Mexican and Japanese creative flavours with breathtaking views, the restaurant boasts a sushi bar, an omakase room, an Agaveria lounge and – last but not least – a dazzling rooftop terrace.
Rucola at The Conduit‘s fifth-floor rooftop might sound diminutive, but it’s not eclipsed by taller buildings, which means people can take in sweeping vistas of London’s roofs and lively streets. This new eco-conscious rooftop gem boasts local, intimate vibes and a sustainability ethos by using low-carbon emission ingredients and ethical wines.
Step into a luxurious jungle-like space overflowing with plants and colours at SUSHISAMBA, a new rooftop addition to buzzing Covent Garden. Located atop the iconic Opera Terrace with views across the piazza, bold flavours and striking interiors make for the perfect spot for celebrating a birthday, or any special occasion. Embark on a culinary journey where Japan meets Brazil meets Peru for the ultimate transportative meal.
Mezemiso, Rooftop Restaurant & Shisha Terrace is a rooftop gem that takes its Japanese and Middle Eastern menu as seriously as its Vauxhall views from the top of the Hyatt Regency hotel. Expect top-notch Japanese starters such as prawn and vegetable gyoza, lobster filo roll with mango spicy mayo, and crispy vegetable tempura.
Joia is a rough translation for “jewel” in Portuguese, and chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s new spot is just that. JOIA Restaurant & Bar is perched atop the art’otel in Battersea and exudes mid-century magnificence in a five-star setting. Take in views of the revitalised Battersea Power Station as you tuck into the chef’s detail-oriented Spanish and Portuguese menu, featuring Basque country txuleton (rib steak) and coastal Portuguese classic bacalhau a bras (a creamy cod, potato, and egg dish).
D&D knows a thing or two about restaurants. The ever-popular hospitality group has over twenty restaurants in London, including the MICHELIN-starred Angler and modern Italian spot Sartoria, among international places. 14 Hills is one of the group’s latest London ventures and comes with immaculate rooftop vibes and spectacular decor. It’s well-suited for anyone looking to level up their Instagram game, thanks to knockout views of the Shard and the Gherkin.
Aqua Nueva is a glitzy affair in the heart of Regent Street, with terrace views of Central London. Its Aqua Spirit bar is the place for Spanish wines and creative cocktails, such as the rum-forward Nueva Punch with coconut cream and angostura bitters and the Tiki Padron, made with tequila, ST. Germain liqueur, padron pepper and ginger beer. However, it’s the Spanish menu at Aqua Nueva that excites the most. The restaurant regularly competes—and wins—croquetas challenges.
Wagtail Rooftop Bar & Restaurant presides over King William Street in the former House of Fraser building and is a 19th-century site nestled between the Gherkin and Walkie Talkie. Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the city can all be seen from this near 360-degree vantage point. Take in the delicious view while digging into a menu that focuses on luxe ingredients.
The redeveloped West London neighbourhood that once housed the famed BBC television centre is now home to many shops, bars, and restaurants, including The Broadcaster. The chic spot arrives courtesy of the Open House group (whose other London hits include The Lighterman). Crowds come for a roof that looks out onto the former BBC building, the renovated plaza, and beyond, resulting in an ambience that’s more Midtown Manhattan than London.
Blackfriars, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard are among the key sights visible from the perch at Mercer Roof Terrace.