The weather is glorious and you want to make the most of it - and why shouldn't you? Sunny days are few and far between and the thought of wasting them in stuffy eateries is a crying shame. Whether you're after a low-key bite to eat by a quiet canal, a classy sunset dinner near the Thames or something a little different, here are London's best restaurants by the water.
Last updated on 16th December 2022
London's best bars and restaurants, all in one location? One Tower Bridge is making it happen. Head to the stylish eating and drinking destination with mates or a date and you'll find fun places serving all kinds of food as well as stunning views across the Thames and the landmark.
Cityscape panoramas, live entertainment and afternoon teas are all up for grabs at Scoff & Banter. What's more, the elegant Canary Wharf bistro also touts an enviable outdoor terrace, pool table and impressive drinks menu.
This gem is ideal for those looking for a delicious and relaxing meal within Central London. Situated in the hub of King's Cross, Rotunda boasts an award-winning wine list, a mouthwatering menu using sustainable produce and a surprisingly large canalside terrace hidden out back.
One of the hottest new riverside restaurants in London, Marsha is the Southbank bar and eatery you need to visit this summer. Nab a table on their covered balcony and enjoy views over the Thames as you chow down on delicious chicken and moreish snacks.
A riverside restaurant in Canary Wharf, No.35 Mackenzie Walk makes the most of its scenic location with a gorgeous outdoor terrace. Whether you're here for an after-work drink, light lunch or a bottomless brunch, you're sure to be in for a great time at this beautiful spot.
Sometimes we are looking for a riverside spot to enjoy a glass or two of wine with some friends or our beau, and luckily, Hithe + Seek has you covered. Located in the Westin London City hotel, this is a perfect place to devour some small plates or a main while sampling over 80 bottles of wine.
When it comes to places to eat by the river, The Ship is up there with the very best. Set with the Thames as its backdrop, the Wandsworth boozer comes up trumps for its ambience, location and eats, along with its weekly live music sessions and quizzes.
Taking waterside dining to the next level, Darcie & May Green is bringing you delicious dishes onboard a stunning barge boat. Head over to the Paddington Basin haunt for a host of Australian-inspired bites (you must try their award-winning banana bread sandwiches) and summery cocktails.
Limin' Beah Club is a cool Southbank bar along the Thames. Head here where you'll find palm trees and sandy floors, along with rum-laced concoctions and a range of Caribbean street food classics, including BBQ jerk chicken, jackfruit roti and masala chips.
A cool and casual spot for both a drink and a bite to eat in Vauxhall, The Riverside sits blisfully next to the water, with a beer garden outside for when the sunshine hits. On the menu? Pub classics such as fish & chips, with a glass of wine or a craft beer a must.
Located on the banks of the Grand Union Canal, Smith's Bar & Grill is a gorgeous spot for an alfresco lunch with a view. Feast on juicy burgers, fresh fish and premium steaks while watching the narrowboats float past.
One of East London's most popular riverside restaurants has got to be Barge East, a stunning spot actually located on the water. Nestled alongside the floating restaurant, the gardens and terrace are home to over 37 types of produce, a quirky dining space and heaters for the cooler months.
Gaze at The O2 whilst sipping your pint at this Docklands pub. Housed within a Grade II listed building, The Gun has been beautifully redecorated whilst still holding on to its original features, making it a charming riverside restaurant in London.
Founders Arms is a great haunt if you're looking for top-notch views of the Thames. Situated right on the river next to the Tate Modern and Millennium Bridge, this glass-fronted boozer offers a boot-load of drinks and nibbles for guests to enjoy with the gorgeous location.
Something of an iconic riverside restaurant in London, Swan At Shakespeare's Globe is nestled in the hub of Bankside. Knocking up delicious British fare with produce from local markets, the building also wins in terms of looks, with scenes of St Paul's Cathedral looming at you.
Found right by the River Thames, Zizzi Bankside offers dining with a view. Expect warm, rustic interiors, with indoor trees and wooden structures on the walls, as well as one helluva menu of Italian food. Think lasagne, seared salmon and pizza.
The Dove is steeped in history. Since it first opened in the 17th century, this Hammersmith watering hole has garnered quite the name for its great atmosphere, cask ales, crowd-pleasing grub and cosy decor, as well as its riverside beer garden.
This traditional boozer is undoubtedly one of the best pubs and riverside restaurants in London. Situated on the water's edge at Richmond, The White Cross' cosy interiors and comforting food make it an ideal spot come rain or shine.
Located along Hackney Wick, Two More Years is a sustainable riverside restaurant that's dishing up desirable views and incredible burgers. Grab a table on the terrace and pick between a number of meaty and vegan patties.
Located in Sheldon Square right next to the canal, not far from Little Venice, The Union Bar Paddington boasts pretty views of the river. While you admire them, you can dig into tapas, washed down by one of their many fantastic wines.
Looking for a celebratory meal near the Thames? Gaucho's Southbank restaurant is sure to impress, offering up some of the finest Argentinian steaks, sophisticated interiors and unparalleled views of Tower Bridge.
If you're looking for a restaurant with sweeping views of the Thames, Gaucho Richmond is a great bet. Here, you can tuck into Argentinian steaks in their sleek space or on a gorgeous terrace, with plenty of crackin' sides to boot.
The biggest riverside contender in London Bridge is none other than The Oyster Shed. Not only is the view monumental, looking over both The Thames and with The Shard looming, its menu of fine wines and seafood is a must, with oysters and pub grub available for all.
Searching for a place to eat near the Thames? Look no further than The Cutty Sark, a Greenwich gem and corker of a pub. Swing by as the sun is setting for a signature bitter and jaw-dropping panoramas across Canary Wharf.
Arepa & Co is bringing the taste of Venezuela to London. Popular for its unique weekend brunch, the kitchen dishes up a selection of arepas (a flat cornbread), rice bowls and cachapas (pancakes made with corn flour) for hungry diners during the week.
After a riverside restaurant in Canary Wharf London? M is the ideal place, as it's transporting you to the French Riviera across its main menu, St. Tropez-inspired weekend brunch, and alfresco terrace.
