Where to Eat and Drink in the Sunshine

As soon as the sun comes out, us Brits race to find the best spots to eat and drink to make the most of the warmer weather. Here are some of the spots we recommend visiting to help you get in the summer spirit.

Chucs

For that Riviera feel without the flight, Chucs is your go-to. Order a light Cobb salad, skinny fries done right, and an ice-cold spritz in the sun for the ultimate South Ken, Belgravia, or Mayfair moment. Over in Mayfair, Chucs Café is keeping things fresh with a new line-up of vibrant salads to-go – think their signature Chopped Cobb, classic Tuna Niçoise, Caesar, or a Raw Mediterranean packed with veggies – perfect for lunch on the move. 

Los Mochis

Feeling a little spicier? Head west to Los Mochis. Tucked in pastel-hued Notting Hill, it’s where Mexican heat meets Japanese precision. Enjoy their Pollo Ensalada – chilli lime grilled chicken over crisp mixed leaves, creamy avocado, fresh cucumber, and delicate leeks – with a side of guacamole and tortilla chips and swap the Diet Coke for a Tommy’s Margarita – it’s spring, after all. 

Bebe Bob

And when the craving calls for something a little more elevated? Bebe Bob is where it’s at – where caviar is non-negotiable and fast food classics are reimagined. Enter the Schnugget Caesar salad: crispy chicken, bold dressing, and just the right amount of indulgence. Pair it with fries, served with caviar and sour cream dip (because why not?), and cocktails created in collaboration with the world’s most awarded bartender, Mr Lyan – each one a masterpiece in its own right.

Cocotte, Shoreditch

Cocotte has unveiled their Shoreditch terrace, just in time for the fabulous spring sun. 

The terrace is perfect for a boozy brunch in the sun, or the All-Day Menu which offers a variety of vibrant salads and sides, alongside their Signature Rotisserie Chicken, available in whole, half, or quarter portions. The drinks menu screams summer, featuring timeless cocktails and signature drinks like the Cocotte Spritz (rosé, sparkling wine, tonic, and grapefruit) or the La Vie En Rose (pomegranate liquor, rosé, sparkling wine and fresh mint).

Pergola Brixton

Inspired by the warmth and beach chilled vibes of Mexico, tequila and mezcal curated cocktails can be enjoyed at Pergola Brixton with Mexican food courtesy of Jalisco. The site has also partnered with Altos Tequila to bring a zingy range of cocktails to guests – think fruity margaritas, palomas and even a tequila slushie. 

The spot boasts gorgeous views and a retractable roof to soak up the sunshine whenever it appears.

HERA, Stratford

This summer, new addition to the Stratford culinary scene, HERA, will be launching their terrace for the very first time – the ultimate Stratford suntrap, offering a taste of the Mediterranean for sun-starved Londoners.

Drinkers and diners alike can snack on and share stunning Greek mezze and indulge in HERA’s classic Greek dishes. HERA also has an extensive range of unique cocktails, from signatures including the Karpouzi Island (vodka, melon mix, mint and lime, with a jelly watermelon on the side) and Orchard Walk (butter gin, apple, lime, Ouzo and soda). From 4-7pm on weekdays, they also have a great Happy Hour deal, offering a selection of over 20 classic cocktails for just £8 each – perfect for enjoying the longer, warmer evenings.

Sam’s Riverside

Situated beside the Thames near Hammersmith Bridge, Sam’s Riverside boasts a west-facing terrace that captures stunning river views, ideal for al fresco dining. Diners can drop in for oysters and a glass of fizz, or stay for a full three meal affair. Menu highlights from Head Chef Karol Mielczarek include seared tuna tataki, roasted lamb rump and rhubarb pavlova.

Sam’s Waterside

Nestled along the Grand Union Canal in Brentford, Sam’s Waterside offers a refined dining experience. The restaurant features a spacious terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the open-plan dining room with natural light. Guests can savour modern British cuisine crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from Head Chef Abbie Hendren.  Think the likes of trout tartar, Portland crab linguine and Basque cheesecake.