Where to Eat Outside in Central London This Summer

When summer's calling you to spend your days outdoors, it's time to take your mealtime al fresco. Central London is packed with outdoor dining spots, from hidden rooftop terraces to casual pavement seating to famous parks that are perfect for picnicking. Here are some of our favourite places to enjoy a bite to eat in St James's.

Fallow

Seasonal, sustainable fare from chefs Will Murray and Jack Croft served al fresco? Sounds like the perfect summer setup to us. Choose Fallow for a long lunch with friends, a dinner date or post-work drinks with colleagues - the vibes are relaxed enough to keep it casual, yet the menu is innovative enough to pique every foodie's interest.

Top tip - We highly recommend Fallow for plant-based summer specials. Confit potato and crispy aubergine burger? Say no more...

Franco’s

A St James's stalwart since 1945, Franco’s serves breakfast pastries from 8-10:15am before commencing their à la carte offering. Jermyn Street’s prime people watching spot has also brought back its famous rosé terrace for the summer, serving over 60 varieties of wine curated by Head Sommelier Paolo Pellegrino.

What's more, the dining menu is designed to compliment your tipple of choice, offering a selection of summer-inspired classic dishes such as fresh seabass with herb gnocchi, mussels and ‘barba di frate.

Cafe Murano

Enjoy Chef Angela Hartnett's impeccable take on Italian dishes, stemming from her family roots at Cafe Murano. Close your eyes whilst soaking up the sun on St James’s Street and you might just be transported to the streets of Italy.

As well as a summer set menu, Cafe Murano also runs a daily 'Spritz, Cicchetti & Sunshine' for its outdoor tables. The two-hour period from 3 to 5pm brings a refreshing cocktail menu with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic spritz options, as well as a selection of small plates - or cicchetti - to enjoy.

Toba

If you were looking for a slice of Indonesia in the heart of Central London, you just found it. Toba in St James's Market brings authentic Indonesian cuisine with a rich blend of aromatic spices in every bite.

Many of the dishes crafted by owner Pino come from recipes shared by his late mother, so you can be sure that each place is made with love and infused with tradition. Though the Nasi Goreng Kecombrang ala Toba will always be a favourite, we recommend trying the hearty Lotek Tahu Sayuran salad for the summer.

Fowl

If you’re after the best chicken in London, may we introduce you to Fowl? The sister restaurant of aforementioned Fallow, they offer a ‘beak-to-feet' menu of classic dishes you know and love (but you’re going to want to start with their burger). They also whip up a mean Mai Tai, perfect to enjoy on their outdoor terrace while the sun is shining.

Looking for more ways to make the most of the summer season? Find an outdoor space to soak up some rays or see what's coming up in St James's this season. Don't forget to share your experiences with us on social media - @StJamesLondon