The best waterside restaurants in London

This pretty canalside café is open seasonally, serving fresh dishes made with fresh ingredients. The food is simple and served through breakfast, lunch, and early dinner, plus they also serve baked treats. Everything is made fresh, with seasonal produce at the helm. The waterside location makes this spot particularly popular, with passing swans and paddling ducks being a frequent sight.

From the team behind Peggy Jean, Darcie & May Green are restored barges that trade in the former’s quaint charm and Richmond surroundings for a striking exterior in an urban setting. The barges are covered in bespoke art by renowned British pop artist Sir Peter Blake and serve an array of international dishes for brunch, lunch and dinner.

Barge East is a laid-back restaurant located on a 120-year-old Dutch barge, with an adjoining canalside garden where you can enjoy a separate street food menu. This award-winning Hackney spot serves seasonal British food prepared with ingredients sourced from sustainable suppliers. Opt for a seat on the barge for the best views of the river.

River-top rather than riverside, Peggy Jean is a restored barge on the Thames with marvellous views of the river and the surrounding Richmond area. A new venture from the Daisy Green folks, it combines Oxford College Boat Race charm with a relaxed beach club atmosphere, serving barbecue specialties and freshly baked pizzas with Australian-inspired toppings. Decked out in soft blue and pink colours, it’s a pleasant spot to catch some rays or even romantic sunsets.

Pizza and beer and sun, what more could you want? The craft brewery next to the River Lea complements its quality beers with freshly prepared pizzas, including several vegetarian choices. Just grab one of the picnic tables at this scenic location and relax.

With a name like that, Sam’s Riverside is a shoe-in on this guide – and justly so, as it boasts some of the best river views in London. The Hammersmith restaurant has a covered outdoor terrace in addition to its tastefully appointed interior area, serving modern British cuisine made with carefully sourced ingredients.

The Tower Bridge branch of Gunpowder boasts outside terrace seating overlooking the iconic Tower Bridge just moments from the Thames. Contemporary Indian cuisine is the focus of the menu here; think elevated classics with plenty of flavour. You can dine outside any time of the year, and if you get chilly, the staff will bring you a hot water bottle to keep you toasty.

This restaurant on the canal towpath on Fish Island serves food all day right by the water. There's outdoor seating if you want views of the river while you dine, as well as indoor seating for when the weather isn't playing ball. The menu is brimming with British and Irish dishes, celebrating seasonal produce and simplicity.

Caravel was launched during the pandemic lockdown as a way for Studio Kitchen to get more space. The converted Dutch barge on Regent's Canal draws inspiration from France and Italy for its changing European menu, with dishes ranging from duck croquettes to tagliatelle or hearty braises. And if you want to just sip on a refined cocktail while watching the river go by, you can hop on one of the waterside barstools.

Of the Ivy Collection’s many outposts around the city, their location in full sight of the landmark Tower Bridge has arguably the best views, especially from its verdant outdoor terrace or lush private dining room. The all-day dining menu includes hearty breakfast fare such as eggs royale and hot buttermilk pancakes, followed by British classics such as shepherd’s pie, fish cakes and chargrilled halloumi later in the day.

This seafood restaurant serves fresh seafood and fish-based dishes out of a tiny boat. The boat usually stays moored up somewhere between Tottenham Hale, Enfield and Hackney – they change location every three weeks - keep an eye on their Instagram to see where they're based. Bring along your own booze to sip on out the front; there are a handful of tables and chairs where you can perch and enjoy your food.

This branch of one of the best steakhouses in the country is a pavilion floating gently on the Thames, surrounded by the urban setting of Canary Wharf. The steaks, ribs and burgers from grass-fed, ethically sourced British beef on the menu are joined by sustainable seafood. The restaurant is complemented by a dockside bar, The Lowback, which also has a terrace with views across the water.

Acclaimed British seafood expert Rick Stein's eponymous location in Richmond looks out over the Thames, letting you take a beautiful panorama as you enjoy your meal. The menu at this riverside spot focuses on fine Cornish seafood, as well as offering Stein’s signature dishes such as Dover sole and lobster thermidor. On weekends, they also serve breakfast.

A long-time London icon when it comes to quality Italian food and riverside zen, the River Café has a Michelin star for its daily changing menus, warm ambience and authentic Mediterranean flavours. You can enjoy freshly made dishes such as nettle tagliatelle or whole wood-roasted pigeon here, then take on the infamous Chocolate Nemesis cake for dessert.

Located in a converted tea warehouse by the Thames, Le Pont de la Tour is one of London’s better-known riverside spots. At the elegant restaurant with an enclosed terrace and spectacular views of Tower Bridge, you can enjoy classic French cuisine, accompanied by a luxurious cocktail and wine list.

This award-winning café is an extremely popular breakfast and brunch spot thanks to offering flavourful takes on more or less every classic breakfast dish there is, from the Full English to American pancakes and French toast. You’re almost certain to have to queue, but with the River Lea right there, you can take a stroll along the canal while you wait, then sit at one of the outdoor tables and relax while you feast.

The Coppa Clubs in London are buzzy spots that keep popping up on social media thanks to their transparent igloos. Set up by the river, these pods offer a romantic dinner setting regardless of the weather. The Coppa Clubs’ riverside locations boast great views of the Thames and the surrounding area, with ordinary outdoor and indoor seating available as well. You can accompany the Mediterranean-inspired menu with refreshing cocktails or fine wine.

Set on the north banks of the Thames, High Timber boasts a sunny terrace with panoramic views of the Thames, Tate Modern and other landmarks in the area. It offers refined contemporary dining with a South African twist, with the menu featuring specialties such as homemade biltong, rooibos smoked salmon and steaks, accompanied by regional and international wines.

A laidback and modern British restaurant, Rotunda is equipped with a large, comfy waterside garden terrace with deckchairs and lovely views of Regent’s Canal. The internationally inspired farm-to-table menu features British cuisine, as well as weekend brunch options and the Sunday Beef Club for roast dinner aficionados. You can also book a private dining area with its own terrace.

Providing respite in Islington, The Narrowboat is a pub with several floors of bright, sunshine-drenched seating by the canal, including outside balconies. Its dedicated Bloody Mary menu is just the thing for enjoying warm sunny weekends, and you can grab some classic British pub fare while you're at it.

The Limehouse branch of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay's Bread Street Kitchen concept is located at a bend in the Thames, providing it with sweeping views of the river. It boasts a large outdoor terrace and a bright conservatory with floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as an elegant boathouse-inspired interior. The menu at this Grade II listed eatery features various British staples and a touch of Mediterranean freshness. The venue can also be hired for weddings and other events.

Ombra brings the Venetian bacaro culture of bars that offer small plates to go with your glass of wine to Hackney. On the covered and, if need be, heated outdoor terrace, you can enjoy seasonal cicchetti and antipasti such as burrata, courgette flowers and cold roast pork, as well as some mains. On certain days, you can try the tasting menu, and there are always plenty of Mediterranean wines to choose from.

Next to the canal in Harlesden, Beyt El Zaytoun features a covered outside area with views of the canal. It's surrounded by verdant greenery, reflected in the decor of the place. The restaurant serves food throughout the day, from breakfast options such as Lebanese eggs and flatbreads, to the full range of Middle Eastern mezze, grilled delicacies, home-cooked stews and more. At the 2023 British Kebab Awards, Beit El Zaytoun took home the top honour in the Best Lebanese Restaurant category.

The Summerhouse invokes summer vibes with nautical-themed decor, sunny seating by the canal in Little Venice and plenty of fresh seafood, salads, dips and other light dishes. There’s always a catch of the day in addition to main courses such as homemade fishcakes and baked sea bass, with drinks such as watermelon coolers, Pimm’s and sangria on hand to provide refreshment. You can also stop by for brunch or Sunday roast on weekends.

Enjoy modern European food in a laid-back space next to the Thames boasting fab views at Scoff & Banter. There's an outdoor garden around the restaurant as well as an airy interior with floor-to-ceiling windows. Food is ingredient-led and made with carefully-selected produce. Dishes include French onion soup, chicken Milanese, and Eton mess, plus draft beer and a considerable range of wines from the bar.

Having established itself as a stylish Italian eatery in Kensington, Maria G's went riverside for its second branch. Using fresh produce, the creative kitchen team crafts a daily changing menu that spans the classic Italian range of small bites or cicchetti, antipasti, primi and secondi with sides to go along, and dessert to finish. The setting is going for an elegant 20th-century retro feel.

Sam's Waterside, located at the Brentford Project redevelopment, is a modern eatery by Sam Harrison that showcases stunning views of the River Brent. This stylishly designed restaurant encompasses a bar and an inviting outdoor terrace. The all-day brasserie boasts a lively ambiance and serves a menu filled with beloved international dishes, accompanied by fine wines and cocktails.

Café Cecilia in London Fields has gained popularity for its seasonal menus and riverside location. Although not directly located beside the canal, it's just across the road, so you can see passing narrowboats if you nab a table seat. This quaint restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, forcing on British classics like sausage sandwiches and kippers, although the menu does change depending on what's in season.

The River Café is a spacious restaurant serving delicious Italian cuisine and fine wines. The roomy terrace offers ample space to dine al fresco. The restaurant serves food throughout the day, from breakfast through lunch and dinner, with drinks served alongside the food.

Enjoy handmade pasta with a stunning view of St. Katharine Docks at Emilia's Crafted Pasta. This harbourside restaurant is popular for its tasty food, but this particular branch also boasts an amazing waterside location, making it even more appealing. Sip on a negroni and feast on just-made ragu while multi-million-pound yachts float in the background.

South Bank's OXO Tower offers iconic views of London's skyline from its spacious terrace. Seasonal British produce is the star of the show here, with a menu crafted by executive Head Chef Jeremy Bloom, alongside a wine list by their expert team of sommeliers. Enjoy your food with views of St Paul's and the surrounding river.

Fresh fish and just-caught seafood is the focus at Wright Brothers at Battersea Power Station. The menu is chock full of market-fresh fish and seafood delivered from Devon each day. The Battersea branch is located right by the river with lovely views over the River Thames.

Forza Wine at the National Theatre is a laid-back restaurant with sweeping riverside views and al fresco terrace dining. Tasty small plates are designed to be shared with great wines and epic river views. The menu features Italian-inspired dishes highlighting seasonal ingredients. They don't take bookings here and also have a cover for their outdoor terrace area in case of rain.

Cafe Mai is a local wine bar and cafe in Hackney Wick that serves a simple food menu alongside natural wines, beers on tap and soft drinks. The canalside location makes it a popular spot for those who like to dine al fresco. There's some indoor seating for enjoying a meal and drinks inside, but the riverside spot is particularly nice on a sunny day.