BEST SPOTS NATIONWIDE FOR AL FRESCO DINING

With summer around the corner, we’ve rounded up our favourite al fresco dining spots. From Toklas’ secluded central London terrace, to Carousel and Zahter’s buzzy pavement settings, and Dishoom over east. Further afield, you’ve got Prawn on the Farm’s lush Cornish landscape views and biodynamic garden dining at Heckfield Place in Hampshire.

Prawn on the Farm, Padstow

After the overwhelming success of its 2020 pop-up, family-run fishmonger-come-restaurant Prawn on the Lawn will re-open “Prawn on the Farm” at Trerethern Farm for a third year. Perched above Padstow, Cornwall the restaurant itself will have a more permanent site higher up, overlooking Padstow Kitchen Garden with uninterrupted, dramatic views of the scenic Camel Estuary. Sustainably caught from day boats in Padstow, expect the freshest seasonal produce. Book here.

Toklas, The Strand

Toklas on the Strand is home to one of central London’s largest and most secluded terraces. Designed by Miria Harris, the garden has bloomed and flourishing green foliage can be seen from every corner of the terrace. The daily changing menu might include Trout crudo with carosello cucumber and John Dory with anchovy, peas and fennel. With a retractable awning, an outdoor bar and heaters too, the 3,000 square feet terrace is designed to suit any occasion and can be used for private hire. Book here.

Dishoom, Shoreditch, Covent Garden and Carnaby

Dishoom needs no introduction; synonymous with London dining since the first café opened in 2010. Outside Dishoom Shoreditch, on the Verandah, the serious business of lounging is in progress, while Covent Garden’s retractable awning on the Verandah offers the perfect indoor-outdoor dining experience. Please note, terrace bookings are upon request and subject to availability. Book here.

Zahter, Carnaby

Acclaimed Turkish chef Esra Muslu’s first London restaurant, Zahter offers seating on the streets of soho (tucked away on Fourbert’s Place next to boutiques such as Soho Home and Annie’s Ibiza). This chic Carnaby spot challenges expectations of Turkish cooking in the capital. Think fresh fish and seasonal veg. Book here.

Carousel, Fitzrovia

At culinary hub, Carousel, located on Fitzrovia’s Charlotte Street, the terrace is the spot for soaking up the sunshine pavement style. With a well-considered list of natural wines, house cocktails, and a menu of small plates (think Fried chicken, habanero and honey), it’s perfect for a casual lunch or relaxed evening out. The outdoor terrace is complete with blankets, so guests can carry on sipping wine late into the night. Book here.

Marle at Heckfield Place, Hampshire

Al fresco dining at Marle, Heckfield Place is a breath of fresh air. Guests are surrounded by woodland and lakes as they look upon the biodynamic Market Garden and Heckfield Home Farm from where the seasonal produce is grown. Recently awarded Green Michelin Star, sustainability is at the forefront of the culinary director Skye Gyngell’s mind and embedded into the ethos of Marle. Book here.

Cafe Murano

Angela Hartnett’s Cafe Murano St James’ and Bermondsey bring a welcoming, neighbourhood vibe to the heart of the city. Both fit with a terrace, they’re the perfect al fresco spots for sitting back and enjoying a Cafe Murano spritz, signature arancini and cichetti. Book here.

For further information, please contact Lauren on lauren@gemmabellandcompany.com.