Knightsbridge’s best restaurants for alfresco dining

There’s a reason alfresco dining is one of the world’s oldest (and most treasured) pastimes. An open-air setting can bring a whole new level of ambience to the culinary experience. And Knightsbridge is the perfect spot – with everything from skyline sushi bars to the best terraces in the neighbourhood and Lebanese street-side feasts, there’s something for every taste bud.

At street level, CLAP’s new KA-FE offers relaxed, bistro-style outdoor seating ideal for quick coffee breaks or a leisurely midday bite. But take the lift seven floors up and you’re rewarded with one of the city’s sleekest rooftops.

The terrace is a suntrap by day and a Tokyo-inspired nightlife destination by night. Order an omakase-style sushi set or seasonal platter, sip on a sake cocktail and stay as the resident DJ kicks off at sunset. Between the skyline views, Japanese cuisine and smooth beats, you could forget you’re in London altogether.

CLAP & CLAP KA-FE, 12-14 Basil Street, SW3 1AJ

After two successful summers, the esteemed team behind Dinner by Heston Blumenthal returns to Hyde Park Garden with a nostalgic menu celebrating classic British summertime meals. The standout dish is traditional fish and chips, featuring triple-cooked chips paired with the freshest Cornish catches. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, pick from a selection of Heston’s most celebrated dishes, including the renowned “meat fruit” and “tipsy cake”.

The setting is straight from an Austen adaptation, complete with clipped lawns and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the Household Cavalry trotting past. The restaurant is now open for the summer season, so get booked in pronto!

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Garden, 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA

Nusret Gökçe, aka internet sensation Salt Bae, is known for his flamboyant flair when it comes to seasoning. However, Knightsbridge’s outpost of his steakhouse empire hides a secret that’s refreshingly understated: a leafy, 55-seat terrace, screened off from the city by dense shrubbery. Here, you can tuck into a tender tomahawk steak or delicately sliced “meat spaghetti” away from the glare of envious passersby.

The steakhouse is also launching an exclusive rooftop for private events with an all-new canapé menu to make your next social gathering a success.

Nusr-et, 101 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7EZ

For something a little more laid-back, the newly renovated Al Arez brings Mediterranean charm and Lebanese flavours to Knightsbridge’s dining scene. Think tender grilled meats, fresh tabbouleh and warm flatbreads served by friendly staff in a street-side setting that’s ideal for people-watching. It’s casual, affordable and perfectly positioned for a post-Harrods pit stop.

Come for the mezze, stay for the atmosphere.

Al Arez, 128 Brompton Road, SW3 1JD

Sometimes, the best alfresco experience doesn’t involve a booking at all. Grab a takeaway from one of the many cafés, delis or patisseries in the area. Ottolenghi-style salads, flaky croissants or a good old-fashioned sandwich from Pret, and make a beeline for Hyde Park.

Stretch out on the grass, soak up the sun and enjoy an impromptu picnic lunch surrounded by ducks, dogs and the occasional horse rider – just some of the ways you can enjoy all that Hyde Park has to offer. Effortless fun for all the family.

Hyde Park, Westminster, SW7 1NR

You don’t need to jet off to the South of France to enjoy the charm of the French Riviera, just head to the newly opened La Môme. Fresh on the scene, the restaurant is Antoine and Ugo Lecorché’s first venture outside the Côte d’Azur. Claiming The Berkeley as its home, it features a sweeping 220-cover dining room complete with a grand piano.

The terrace, on the contrary, offers a more intimate dining experience. With only 30 seats, you can immerse yourself in the flavours of Provence while enjoying private uninterrupted views of Belgravia in all its beauty.

The Berkeley, Wilton Place, SW1X 7RL

Discreetly located through the weaving hallways of The Lanesborough, this really is the definition of a hidden gem. One of London’s most luxurious outdoor seating spaces, the lounge specialises in cocktails, spirits and fine wines, also offering a selection of small dishes.

Lighter options include a mezze platter, a British cheese board and Belgravia oysters, while the larger dishes offer a variety of sandwiches, salads and wraps. Those looking to really indulge should opt for the buttered lobster linguine. The best part? The blankets, heaters and fireplaces mean it can be enjoyed no matter the forecast.

The Lanesborough, Duke of Wellington Place, SW1X 7TA

For fashion aficionados, Prada Caffè’s summer terrace serves up a taste of true Italian luxury with traditional pasta dishes and freshly made patisseries.

Take a seat in the fenced off area and enjoy a meal as delectable for the eyes as it is for the taste buds; from desserts embellished with the house’s iconic logo to colourful croissants and picture-perfect brunches served on original Japanese porcelain.

Don’t miss the gelato hut where you can grab a scoop of creamy pistachio to match the caffè’s pastel green colour scheme. Operating on a walk-in only basis, just turn up on the day and revel in the art of aperitivo.

Prada Caffè, Harrods Ground Floor, Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL