Pop-up terraces and temporary rooftop bars are not confined to the summer. Here, we round-up the best cosy London spots to make the most of the colder season. Chocolate treats, cocktails and cosiness await…
The Ethicurean, The Gardening Society
High above Oxford Street sits The Gardening Society. This Winter, critically acclaimed restaurant The Ethicurean has joined forces and opened a pop-up offering modern British cuisine. The outdoor space boasts private chalet-style huts and is sprinkled with fairy lights. Seasonal, ethically-sourced and taking cues from historic London recipes, the hearty and imaginative menu offers a selection of sumptuous autumn and winter dishes. Think Welsh Rabbit and Venison & Pipers Farm Bacon Pie for mains and London Sticky Toffee Apple Cake and London Stout Pudding for dessert.
Babylon
The temperature may be set to drop, but spirits are sure to remain high at Babylon at The Roof Gardens this winter. A popular haunt among West Londoners all year round, the award-winning restaurant is inviting you to warm your cockles with a delicious menu of baked cheese and hot cocktails. Sharing dishes include baked Cornish Camembert for two with honey, walnuts and smoked apple chutney or French Comte Fondue melted with shallots, white wine, and garlic. A Hot Cocktails menu has been specially created.
Il Tetto at Selfridges
Escape to Italy via Selfridges’ new rooftop residency with renowned restaurateur and former Ivy Head Chef, Des McDonald. Those feeling the winter chill can snuggle up in one of the private dining huts and order a Mr Aldo – brandy, honey cream, orange and white chocolate foam accompanied by small plate nibbles – many ingredients are sourced from Italy. Negronis feature heavily on the drinks menu. Try the Etna which is made with white wine, brandy, honey, mint and almond liqueur.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
Combining Ivy-style splendour with a spacious garden terrace there are few London restaurants that boast as magical a terrace as The Ivy Chelsea. As the day fades, candles are lit, fairy lights flicker, and a roaring log fire glows. It is a picturesque destination in winter – and certainly one for Instagrammers!
The Igloos at Coppa Club
You couldn’t wish for a more Instagram-ready spot than Coppa Club’s heated riverside igloos, which overlook Tower Bridge. Having been introduced last year, the glass huts were a huge success with extra staff hired to manage customer demand. Book ahead and enjoy the dreamy views, sheepskin blankets, and festive cocktails. Three of the igloos will have large circular tables which can seat groups of up to eight, while the other igloos are kitted out as cosy riverside lounges. Speakers pump out funk, soul, and jazz.
Winter at Dalloway
Sparkling lights, white snow-covered trees, sheepskin rugs, hot water bottles and white fur throws are what guests can expect to find in this hidden Bloomsbury hideaway. Every Saturday night, the heated terrace plays host to the Dalloway Film Club, in conjunction with The Nomad Cinema, showcasing movie classics through wireless headphones and a 30-foot screen. Food-wise choose from a range of savoury and sweet fondue in collaboration with La Fromagerie, served with sourdough and pickled root vegetables.
The Terrace at The Rosewood London
The Terrace at The Rosewood London will offer a cosy and picturesque haven in Holborn, with snug blankets and heated benches. The Terrace will be lit by hanging lanterns and twinkly festive lights. Wrap up warm and order a spiced hot buttered rum and while you decide on what sharing hotpot to order.
Contact your Insignia Personal Assistant for details.
