Summer in the City: Local al-fresco dining spots
There’s nothing quite like summer in the city and to celebrate the return of warmer weather, we’ve curated a selection of our very favourite North London al fresco dining spots…from modern waterside pubs to fine dining in secluded gardens, there’s something to suit everyone!
The Naturalist, Woodberry Down
Located in the heart of Woodberry Down, The Naturalist is a fantastic local pub which boasts spacious, comfy seating and beautiful natural decor inside and out onits terrace, which overlooks Woodberry Wetlands nature reserve. The Naturalist has a great selection of craft beers, wines from around the world and delicious cocktails. Head Chef Gigi is always creating seasonal menus that are as eclectic as the area itself.
Open from Monday – Saturday from 11:00am – 11:00pm
Sunday from 11:00am – 10:30pm.
Osteria Tufo, Finsbury Park
Osteria Tufo is an Italian restaurant in the heart of Finsbury Park, serving up satisfying, rustic-style portions of fresh traditional food. Owner Paola likens her restaurant to an extension of her home’s dining room, and personally greets and treats each customer as a welcome guest. The outdoor terrace comes with patio heaters, allowing you to dine al fresco even on colder days.
Open Monday – Friday from 5:30pm to 10:30pm
Saturday 12:30pm – 10:30pm
Sunday 12:30pm – 8:30pm.
Common Ground, Stroud Green
Common Ground is a relaxed vegetarian eatery in Stroud Green near Finsbury Park. Serving fresh, globally inspired food, pastries & house bakes, specialty coffee from Dark Arts, cocktails and juices in a vibrant unique space. Common Ground also offers a large back terrace full of plants. During the daytime, they accept walk-ins only, however bookings can be made for evening meals.
Open Daytime: Monday-Friday 8.30pm – 4.00pm
Saturday 9.30am – 4.30pm
Sunday 9.30am-4.00pm
Evening: Friday and Saturday from 6:00pm.
La Rosetta, Stoke Newington
La Rosetta is a family run Italian pizzeria and restaurant set in the heart of Stoke Newington, featuring three dining areas including a sheltered secret outdoor garden. Famed for its delicious homemade pasta and exceptional pizzas, this little gem transports you back to rustic, traditional Italy and offers a truly authentic experience.
Open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 5:00pm – 10:00pm
Saturday and Sunday from 12:00pm to 10:00pm.
Ryan’s N16, Stoke Newington
Ryan’s has been a Stoke Newington staple for 25 years. Family owned and community focused, t the kitchen serves locally sourced seasonal food seven days a week, including a delicious Saturday breakfast until 3pm. In the summer, the huge beer garden is the place to be for al fresco drinking and dining – it’s one of Church Street’s best kept secrets! Downstairs, the basement is the perfect private hire space, for everything from parties to pilates.
Open Tuesday and Wednesday 4:00pm – 11:00pm
Thursday 4:00pm – 12:00am
Friday 4:00pm – 1:00am
Sunday 12:00pm – 11:00pm.
Westerns Laundry, Highbury
Westerns Laundry is an airy, modern-industrial seafood eatery offering British and Spanish small plates and a selection of natural wines. Set on a tranquil cobbled courtyard lined with Himalayan Birch trees, the daily chalkboard menu reflects the very best seafood sourced from the day boats off Cornwall and Devon. Expect the likes of home-salted sardines, seabass with seaweed tartare, and chargrilled mackerel with miso and chilli amongst the starters. For those who prefer meat there’s beef with garlic butter and croutons, or pork loin with basil and capers.
Open Tuesday – Friday from 5:30pm – 10:30pm
Saturday from 12:00pm – 2:30pm / 5:30pm – 10:30pm
Sunday 12:00pm – 2:30pm / 5:30pm – 9:00pm
