If you’re planning a special celebration or simply want to surprise someone with a memorable dining experience, you need to check out the best restaurants with a view in London, as this is always going to be a unforgettable experience.
Many of the best restaurants in London with a view are located on the top floors of the city’s modern skyscrapers. This normally means that they are usually upmarket and can be pricey. However, in our list below we have included a selection of these famous high-end venues, as well as some cheaper alternatives that offer good views of the city without breaking the bank.
Restaurants with a View in London
Most of the restaurants’ websites have menus and prices to help you decide which one to choose. But keep in mind that they are all extremely popular, so you’ll need to book in advance especially if you want to go on a weekend.
Oxo Tower
A bar and brasserie located on the 8th floor of the famous OXO Tower on the south bank of the River Thames. Serving British and pan-Asian cuisine on a giant terrace with fantastic views over the River Thames and St Paul’s Cathedral in the backdrop.
⇒ More information: Oxo Tower
Duck and Waffle
Situated on the 40th floor of Heron Tower next to Liverpool Street Station, this restaurant offers an Anglo-French menu with unbeatable views over the British capital. Being one of the most famous restaurants in London with a view, it is necessary to book well in advance, but it is open 24 hours a day.
⇒ More information: Duck and Waffle
Sushisamba
Also located in Heron Tower on floors 38 and 39, this fantastic restaurant offers a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine with impressive views over the city. And it’s also possible to go up in the evening for a cocktail without having to make a reservation.
⇒ More information: Sushisamba
Coq d’argent
A French restaurant located on the roof of one of the buildings in the Bank area and accessed by a private elevator. There’s also a covered terrace on the roof, making it the perfect place for dinner with a view in London all year round.
⇒ More information: Coq d’argent
Inside The Shard
London’s tallest building The Shard is home to several restaurants on its upper floors which as you can imagine offer unbeatable views of the city, perfect for that very special occasion.
- Aqua: British cuisine on the 31st floor. More information: Aqua
- Oblix: Located on the 32nd floor. More information: Oblix
- Hutong: Chinese restaurant on the 33rd floor. More information: Hutong
Sky Garden
Inside the building known as the Walkie-Talkie, you’ll find restaurants, bars and even a garden with a view. On the 35th floor, there are two British restaurants – the Darwin Brasserie and Fenchurch Restaurant, as well as the Sky Pod Bar which serves everything from coffee and cola, to cocktails and champagne
⇒ More information: Sky Garden
Shanghai Me
Located on the 28th floor of the London Hilton on Park Lane, Shanghai Me pairs Chinese and Japanese dining with wide views over Hyde Park and the London skyline. Check the menu and reserve ahead if you want a window table.
⇒ More information: Shanghai Me
Affordable Restaurants with a View in London
In addition to the high-end restaurants mentioned above, here are some cheaper restaurants in London which also offer beautiful views. These restaurants are well situated for memorable views of the city but in a less formal atmosphere.
Madison
Located on the terrace of the One New Change shopping centre next to St Paul’s Cathedral. Madison Restaurant and Cocktail Bar becomes the perfect place for evening cocktails due to its views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the London skyline lit up after dark. There is also a tapas restaurant available. If you’re in the area, we highly recommend popping up to take in the views, even if it’s just over a coffee.
⇒ More information: Madison
Gaucho Tower Bridge
Gaucho Tower Bridge has views towards Tower Bridge and the Thames. Check its current menu and Sunday roast prices on the restaurant’s website before booking.
⇒ More information: Gaucho
Strada Tower Bridge
Overlooking Tower Bridge, Italian chain Strada is a lovely option for an affordable dinner with a view in London.
⇒ More information: Strada
Blue Print Cafe
Located on the south bank of the Thames above the Design Museum, this restaurant offers European cuisine and fantastic views over Tower Bridge.
⇒ More information: Blue Print Cafe
Tate Modern
Head to the 6th floor of the Tate Modern art gallery for fabulous views across the Thames and St Paul’s, with a reasonably priced food menu.
⇒ More information: Tate Modern
The Swan
This traditional London pub is found next to the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre with views over the Millennium Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral.
⇒ More information: The Swan
Map of Restaurants with a View in London
The map below includes the best restaurants with a view in London named above, as well as London’s most famous rooftop bars with a view.
Click on the map to make it bigger!
Hi, we are Alberto and Amy, the London locals behind PlanTrip London. We’ve lived in London since 2010 and have spent every year since exploring the city, from its famous landmarks to the markets, pubs, parks and hidden corners most visitors never find. Over the years we became the go-to trip planners for friends and family visiting London, so we created this site to share the same first-hand, tried-and-tested advice with you. Every itinerary, tip and recommendation here comes from our own experience with our two children, so you can plan a London trip that’s easier, better value and far more memorable.