29 best riverside restaurants and bars in London

One of London's most iconic features is the River Thames; as the longest river in England, it winds its way through the city, cruising past many of London's famous landmarks, bridges, buildings, and, most importantly, appearing in the opening credits of EastEnders. Plus, it's home to some of the best riverside restaurants in London. Days out in London reap the benefits of the river with cruises helping tourists explore, museums explaining the history of the river and London's past, and impressive bridges ideally placed over it to offer the perfect tourist pictures of Big Ben and the London Eye.

Miles of riverside certainly make for a pretty view and it's not just tourists that flock to the Thames' banksides - some of the world's top chefs have found their sea legs along the river too, bringing the city some incredibly unique dining spots. There's nothing more relaxing than taking a break from fast-paced London life and dining by the river, especially in the warmer months on the multitude of outdoor terraces.

Whether your looking for a celebratory meal or simple after-work drinks, there are plenty of places to turn your average dinner into a waterside gastronomical experience. Soak up the sunshine at some of London's oldest waterside pubs or enjoy afternoon tea in a contemporary setting while you watch luxury yatchts bobbing on the water. 

There really is something magical about dining by the Thames. By day - watch boats and playful wildlife in the water; by night - the water mirrors the glittering lights of the city's skyline. To honour this magic, we've created a guide to the best riverside dining in London from central city spots to dining canal-side in Little Venice. So, it's time to wave goodbye to boring sights as you cast your sights on the silvery Thames. 'Water' you waiting for? Grab some friends and enjoy all that London's riverside dining scene has to offer. 

The best riverside restaurants in London

In the mood for some waterside dining? These fine establishments have you covered, from riverside terraces to restaurants housed in old grain barges. 

Beit El Zaytoun, Harlesden

What: Beit El Zaytoun brings stylish Lebanese cuisine to the banks of the Thames. A welcoming, open dining room features large windows, twinkling lights, live greenery and garden-style furniture; even if you're dining inside, the interiors make sure you're treated to only the best sights. Out on the terrace, the space is perfect for warmer nights - relax with friends and share plates of hot or cold mezze including falafel, baba ghanoush and halloumi.
Where: 15-17 Barretts Green Road, NW10 7AE
Book now: Beit El Zayoun

Sea Containers Restaurant, South Bank 

What: Situated right along the River Thames, Sea Containers’ menu boasts options that range ‘From the Sea’, ‘From the Land’ and ‘From the Field’. Plates such as sea bass ceviche tacos, crab toast, and lobster and fries are among the dining options at this riverside joint. Finish off with a choice of desserts, which tend to be fun takes on classics, such as a baked cheesecake with wild strawberries.
Where: 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
Book now: Sea Containers Restaurant

Rotunda, King's Cross

What: Offering a break from the river and a visit to Regent’s Canal, Rotunda’s large waterside terrace is a pleasantly serene contrast to the bustling offices above it. The kitchen takes full advantage of the owner’s farm and butchery in Northumberland for well-aged slabs of beef and flat-iron steaks, offered alongside lighter starters such as grilled asparagus with black garlic, or a heritage tomato and burrata salad.
Where: 90 York Way, N1 9AG
Book now: Rotunda

Ombra, Hackney

What: Ombra’s slightly distant location between Bethnal Green and Hackney is perhaps the reason it’s never quite got the dues it deserves in London’s frenetic ‘best Italian restaurant’ discussions. Let’s be real though, Ombra is excellent and the al fresco riverside terrace makes it an even better place to sink Negronis and delicious pasta plates.
Where: 1 Vyner Street, E2 9DG
Book now: Ombra

Hithe + Seek, City of London

What: With a large window offering fantastic views of the Thames and surrounding city, Hithe + Seek is a great, luxury spot for drinks at a riverside restaurant in London. The internationally inspired wine and cocktail bar also offers a thoughtfully designed food menu, with paired wines, featuring dishes like lamb kofta, grilled octopus, or duck terrine. Homemade rolls, crackers, chutneys and olives all make perfect accompaniments to an evening of drinks by the riverside. 
Where: 60 Upper Thames Street, EC4V 3AD
Book now: Hithe + Seek

The Lighterman, King's Cross

What: Lively and fun, this riverside dining spot features wrap-around terraces that make the most of its prime location. As an all day dining and drinking establishment, the menu features all the old school classics like fish and chips, however the real star of the show is the wood-fired grill. Chargrilled chicken, rib eye steak and a range of flatbread dishes transform a typical pub menu into an exciting, contemporary riverside restaurant.
Where: 3 Granary Square, N1C 4BH
Book now: The Lighterman

The Wharf, Teddington

What: The Wharf’s idyllic setting on the bank of Teddington Lock is a big calling card, but just as good is the range of fantastic food served throughout the day. Lounge by the waterside and enjoy anything from afternoon tea to seafood sharing platters or a Sunday jazz lunch. Just remember to book, because The Wharf gets busy.
Where: 22 Manor Road, TW11 8BG
Book now: The Wharf

Swan at the Globe, South Bank

What: As far as riverside dining in London goes, the Swan has a pretty decent claim to fame with its views of both the Thames, St Paul's, and its convenience for theatre-goers. It has a very reasonable 'River View' set menu alongside a normal a la carte, that is served daily and features easy-going modern British cooking, alongside a selection of Neal's Yard cheeses.
Where: 21 New Globe Walk, SE1 9DT
Book now: Swan at the Globe

Maria G’s, Fulham

What: This bright and breezy all-day brasserie has nabbed a gorgeous spot right by the Thames at Fulham Riverside, and delivers an easy-going menu that is perfect to enjoy in the sunshine. The menu features classic cooking with a bit of Mediterranean influence - think pan-seared chicken breast with sundried tomato risotto and basil oil - alongside accessible fare like burgers, fish and chips, and rib-eye steak with truffled chips and Cafe de Paris butter. 
Where: 20 Central Avenue, SW6 2QE
Book now: Maria G’s Fulham

Barge East, Stratford

What: Barge East has a permanent spot moored up in Hackney Wick, sitting pretty in between the River Lea and the green pastures of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. The buzzy, intimate atmosphere is a pleasure to be in, but Barge East also offers genuinely thoughtful, seasonal cookery that has made it a favourite neighbourhood spot with Wick locals.
Where: White Post Lane, E9 5EN
Book now: Barge East

Towpath Cafe, Dalston

What: The opening of the Towpath Cafe signals the end of winter in east London, closely followed by queues snaking along the canalside. Catering for breakfast, lunch and dinner, tables at Towpath are in high demand and it’s no wonder, thanks to exceptional seasonal cooking, great bakery treats and excellent coffee.
Where: 42 De Beauvoir Crescent, N1 5SB
Book now: Towpath Cafe

Scott’s, Richmond

What: Scott’s Richmond location is, dare we say it, even more opulent than the original, with vast silver columns, magnificent artwork on the walls and crystal chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings. The seafood is, predictably, wonderful, and you can enjoy it next to the twinkling waters of the Thames right by Richmond Bridge.
Where: 4 Whittaker Avenue, TW9 1EH
Book now: Scott’s Richmond

Cafe Cecilia, Hackney

What: Chef Max Rocha’s previous experience at The River Cafe, St John Bread & Wine, and Spring, has stood him in good stead at this ultra-trendy spot between Bethnal Green and London Fields. The minimal, ingredient-led menu is straight out of the St John playbook - think sage and anchovy fritti, glistening terrines and lamb leg with sprouting broccoli. Good luck getting a table, particularly the little outdoor ones just over the road from the canal.
Where: 32 Andrews Road, E8 4FX
Book now: Cafe Cecilia

Caravel, Islington

What: Admittedly, you can’t sit al fresco by the water at Caravel, but it’s a small price to pay for being in one of London’s most charming, unique dining rooms. Nearby Studio Kitchen offers more traditional outdoor vibes, but Caravel’s heart-warming, nostalgic British cooking has made it an instant hit in London.
Where: 172 Shepherdess Walk, N1 7JL
Book now: Caravel

Peggy Jean, Richmond

What: The Daisy Green group has done a smart job of repurposing barges in various parts of London, turning them into moored restaurants. Peggy Jean is the largest and most impressive of those, and it’s quite something on a sunny day in Richmond, catering for everything from Aussie-inspired brunches to freshly-baked pizzas and small-plate suppers with cocktails.
Where: Bridge Boathouses, TW9 1TH
Book now: Peggy Jean

The Summerhouse, Maida Vale

What: Dreamily located by the banks of Little Venice, this breezy venue offers canal-side dining with sunny echoes of a Long Island beach retreat. Seafood is the main culinary event, as options include homemade fishcakes with watercress sauce or whole-baked sea bream. Reminiscent of a Cape Cod getaway, The Summerhouse is ideal for a balmy London evening, finished off with a refreshing lemon posset or seasonal fruit clafoutis.
Where: 60 Bloomfield Road, W9 2PA
Book now: The Summerhouse

The River Cafe, Hammersmith

What: This Hammersmith riverside restaurant needs little introduction, and has entrancing views and a seductive riverside terrace that are the perfect combination for a gorgeous London day. Hyper-seasonal menus take great influence from Mediterranean and regional Italian cuisine, dancing elegantly between antipasti, primi, pasta, secondi and dessert. The menu changes constantly but you can always expect the River Cafe to be a depiction of the season, with food cooked to be eaten and enjoyed, rather than admired. Must-orders include pasta dishes, homemade gelato, and the famous Chocolate Nemesis cake.
Where: Rainville Road, W6 9HA
Book now: The River Cafe

London Shell Co, Paddington

What: Dining by the river, or dining on the river? I think we know what we'd pick. London Shell Co. on board The Prince Regent makes for a quirky riverside dining experience. Opt for the lunch or dinner set cruise and enjoy your seafood with ever-changing views of the river. You might find dishes of trout, stone bass, crab or Cornish cod on the daily changing menu of fresh British seafood. If you can't quite stomach floating down Regent's Canal as you dine, London Shell Co. also has a static riverside spot, The Grand Duchess, serving an a la carte menu.
Where: Sheldon Square, W2 6EP
Book now: London Shell Co.

Rick Stein, Barnes

What: No riverside restaurant list would be complete without Rick Stein. His Barnes dining experience provides a sanctuary from fast-paced London life brought about by idyllic views of the Thames - a nod to Stein's Cornish heritage. It is not just the location that will get you reminiscing about summer holidays by the seaside though; the menu boasts a fine selection of fish and seafood while adding exciting twists. 
Where: 125 Mortlake High Street, SW14 8SN
Book now: Rick Stein

Cafe Spice Namaste, Woolwich

What: This is a true hidden gem if you're on the hunt for Indian fare along the river. Chef Cyrus Todiwala brings award-winning food and a unique dining experience full of authentic Parsee culture to London. You're sure to find some familiar dishes on the menu such as homemade papads, halloumi sashlik and naan breads; however Cyrus also brings excitement with dishes like grilled trout marinated in green chutney or venison tikka. This riverside dining spot in London is a real treat for the taste buds.
Where: 1-2 Lower Dock Walk, E16 2GT
Book now: Cafe Spice Namaste

The best riverside bars in London

When the British summer sun finally shows it's face, where better to congregate with a few pals and enjoy a cold pint than by one of London's many rivers, canals and waterways?

Hawksmoor Bar, Canary Wharf

What: Hawksmoor Bar was once called The Lowback Bar, and as any Hawksmoor fanatic knows, it does an absolutely brilliant line in cocktails. This bar shifts the focus over to the group’s drinks offering, dishing up all manner of innovative cocktails, from iconic big-hitters to easy-sipping ‘Sundowners’. Sure, the wharf outside isn’t a ‘river’ by any definition, but if you’re looking for somewhere waterside to enjoy some of the best cocktails in London, The Lowback is the place.
Where: 1 Water Street, E14 5GX
Book now: Hawksmoor Bar Wood Wharf

Trafalgar Tavern, Greenwich

What: This historic Greenwich boozer dates way back to 1837 (Charles Dickens and William Gladstone both drank here in their times), and it has claimed a prime spot on the banks of the Thames ever since. Wait for high tide, then sit in one of the bay windows - ideally with a pint of guest ale - and let the peaceful enjoyment of the Thames ebb and flow wash over you (not literally, though it may feel like you’re practically in the water).
Where: Park Row, SE10 9NW
Book now: Trafalgar Tavern

OXO Tower Brasserie & Bar, Southwark

What: OXO Tower really puts up a good case for being one of the best riverside spots in London; with views of St Paul's, the London Eye and the Thames below, you really can't ask for much more. Located on the top floor, the expert team of mixologists create cocktails that are almost as beautiful as the views. Treat yourself to an evening of drinks and whet your appetite with large plates like the OXO Wagyu burger or crispy fried squid.
Where: Barge House Street, SE1 9PH
Book now: OXO Tower Brasserie & Bar

Tattershall Castle, Embankment

What: You want to be by the river? How about, in the river? The Tattershall Castle is a pub housed on a permanently-moored Thames riverboat, with multiple floors spanning a gastropub restaurant and bar. Grab a seat up top to enjoy the view (you can see the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament from here) or head to the lower decks for a more classic pub vibe.
Where: Victoria Embankment, SW1A 2HR
Book now: Tattershall Castle

Crate Brewery, Hackney

What: When Dougie McMaster’s trailblazing restaurant Silo arrived in London, where else would it land but Hackney? Perhaps the only true zero-waste restaurant in the city, Silo is as delicious as it is sustainable. Even better, it's housed inside Hackney Wick’s Crate Brewery, which sits right by the Hackney Cut - stop by for a pint of something delicious and watch canal boats drift by in the sun.
Where: Queens Yard, E9 5EN
Book now: Crate Brewery

The Gun, Canary Wharf

What: With its striking riverside location, The Gun is full of possibilities for balmy evenings and lazy Sundays. Owned by Fuller’s brewery, the menu boasts posh nosh such as west Mersea rock oysters and a rack of lamb to gorge on during a leisurely summer evening. Plus with a Sunday menu, it would be quite a feat to find a better spot to tuck into a Sunday roast in London.
Where: 27 Coldharbour, E14 9NS
Book now: The Gun

The Old Ship, Hammersmith

What: The combination of the traditional 1850's building and its modern, nautical refurbishments makes The Old Ship a beautiful, riverside spot in West London. A gorgeous terrace is matched by the bright, airy interiors so you can dine with a view even throughout the colder months. The head chef does not mess around with the classics, presenting high-quality family pub favourites like pies, burgers, sausage and mash, and fish and chips. Plus with a traditional roast with all the trimmings served on a Sunday, The Old Ship takes proper British pub grub and steps it up a notch or two.
Where: 25 Upper Mall, W6 9TD
Book now: The Old Ship

The Prospect of Whitby, Wapping

What: Ever wondered what the oldest riverside restaurant in London is? According to The Prospect of Whitby, it's here. Dating back to 1520, the pub was a popular spot for sailors, smugglers and even the likes of Charles Dickens back in the day. Now a Greene King pub, the menu is full of traditional grub - think pies, roasts, fish and chips or sausage and mash. Dine in an old-fashioned, wood-panelled dining area or out on the terrace with Wapping's riverside shoreline as your backdrop.
Where: 57 Wapping Wall, E1W 3SH
Book now: The Prospect of Whitby

Bruno's, Islington

What: Just down the way on the Regent's Canal you'll find Bruno's - a cocktail bar housed inside a Dutch grain barge. Serving an innovative cocktail list and a handful of easy snacks (olives, pickled, cured meats and the like), Bruno's is a wonderful mood-lit hangout.
Where: 172 Shepherdess Walk, N1 7JL
Book now: Bruno's Bar

Riverside dining in London certainly leaves you spoilt for choice; the glistening Thames provides some pretty impressive and memorable sights. Thirsty for even more gorgeous views in London? Check out our list of the best rooftop bars in London and keep your fingers crossed for sunny weather!