As the warmer months roll in, there’s nothing quite like dining al fresco – a term borrowed from the Italians that evokes leisurely meals under open skies, surrounded by good company and even better food.
In this blog, we’ll explore the meaning behind this beloved style of dining and take you on a tour of some of the best al fresco dining spots in London.
From elegant terraces to vibrant outdoor settings, we’ve handpicked 4, must-try San Carlo restaurants near central London that bring a taste of Italy to the heart of the capital – with the added charm of beautiful outdoor seating.
Al fresco meaning: What is al fresco dining?
In Italian, al fresco literally means “in the cool” and is commonly used to describe eating outdoors. With roots in Italian culture, the spirit of the phrase perfectly captures the essence of Italian outdoor living: relaxed, sociable meals enjoyed in the open air, surrounded by good food, wine and warm conversation. It’s a tradition deeply woven into Italian life, where terraces, piazzas and garden tables invite diners to savour the moment as much as the meal.
Now, let’s take a closer look at where in London you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine al fresco, each offering its own unique outdoor setting in the heart of the city.
1. Alto Selfridges Rooftop Restaurant
Perched atop Selfridges on Oxford Street, Alto by San Carlo offers an enchanting rooftop escape that brings a taste of Italy to the heart of London. The stylish Italian restaurant features a beautifully landscaped terrace adorned with trailing vines and lemon trees, creating a serene atmosphere reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast.
Equipped with a fully retractable roof, guests can enjoy al fresco dining under the sun or stars, regardless of the weather. The restaurant also boasts a separate outdoor bar & seating space, which accommodates open-air drinks as well as dining.
The Alto by San Carlo menu showcases a selection of cicchetti-style plates, perfect for sharing and designed to highlight the finest Italian ingredients.
Whether you’re seeking a leisurely lunch, a celebratory dinner or a pre-shopping aperitivo, the terrace at Alto Selfridges delivers breathtaking city views and an unforgettable outdoor dining experience in London.
Alto by San Carlo, The Rooftop, Selfridges, Oxford St, London, W1A 1AB
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2. Isola by San Carlo
Nestled in the charming St Christopher’s Place, Isola by San Carlo offers a delightful al fresco dining experience that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.
Inspired by the islands of Italy, the restaurant features a 50-cover al fresco terrace adorned with lush greenery and vibrant florals, creating an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a grand Sicilian home.
The terrace, which wraps around the perimeter of the restaurant, provides a serene setting to enjoy classic Italian dishes with a twist. Guests can indulge in specialties such as Spaghetti all’Aragosta, a signature dish featuring spaghetti served with a whole lobster and house-spiced sauce.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely lunch, romantic dinner or a post-shopping pick-me-up, Isola offers a perfect blend of delectable cuisine and a picturesque setting.
Isola by San Carlo, St Christopher’s Place, London, W1U 1AY
Book a table at Isola
3. San Carlo London
San Carlo on Regent Street offers a chic al fresco dining experience in the heart of London’s St. James’s district. The stylish outdoor terrace provides a sophisticated setting for guests to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine amidst the vibrant atmosphere of one of London’s most iconic streets.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in classic pasta dishes, fresh seafood or an authentic Italian pizza, the outdoor terrace offers a delightful space to savour your meal while people-watching or soaking in the city’s energy.
With its elegant ambiance and prime location, San Carlo’s outdoor terrace is a perfect spot for both casual lunches and special occasions
San Carlo London, 2 Regent Street, St James’s, London, SW1Y 4PE
Book a table at San Carlo London
4. San Carlo Knightsbridge
San Carlo Knightsbridge offers an elegant al fresco dining experience in one of London’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
Situated on Hans Road, adjacent to Harrods, this refined Italian restaurant provides a charming outdoor seating area where guests can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Knightsbridge. The terrace is adorned with striped awnings and potted plants, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists alike.
San Carlo Knightsbridge serves a traditional à la carte menu, featuring a variety of Italian dishes crafted from the finest ingredients sourced directly from artisan producers in Italy. The outdoor seating area provides the perfect setting to enjoy these culinary delights while people-watching in this vibrant area.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring London’s luxury shopping district, San Carlo Knightsbridge offers a delightful al fresco dining experience that combines exquisite cuisine with the charm of one of the city’s most prestigious neighbourhoods.
San Carlo Knightsbridge, 6 Hans Road, Knightsbridge, London SW3 1RX
Book a table at San Carlo Knightsbridge
Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a rooftop, people-watching from a chic terrace, or escaping the city buzz in a hidden courtyard, al fresco dining in London doesn’t get much better than at San Carlo. Each of these restaurants brings a slice of Italian lifestyle to the capital – where great food, atmosphere and open-air charm come together beautifully.
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