Dining by the river has a way of making everything feel more romantic and a little extra special. Maybe it's that calming effect of watching the water that soothes the eyes and helps you relax, letting you sink into the moment. When you need a place like that, I’ve got just the thing: a selection of restaurants that have earned the Thames Riverside Excellence award. These spots know how to set the scene where every meal feels unrushed, and the setting is so stunning, you wouldn’t think of hurrying through it.
Swan enjoys a prime location that brings together so many perks: not only is it a riverside setting with stunning views, but it's also nestled right at the iconic Globe Theatre and just a short walk from Tate Modern. The ambiance is effortlessly chic, and if you arrive after a performance, you can feel like the evening continues — guests at the tables become the audience, with the magnificent view through the windows offering a show of dancing waters and St Paul’s towering across the river.
Given all these factors, it can get a bit touristy if that’s something that bothers you. Personally, I don’t mind, and I like to start at the relaxed bar downstairs for a well-made cocktail with whimsical names such as Desdemona’s Desire or Lady Macbeth — you can guess the inspiration. That theme carries upstairs to the restaurant, where the afternoon tea menu, Much Ado About Tea, stands out, with a savory version featuring delicious scones that’s worth trying.
Afternoon tea — £39.5
Most likely, if you're a foodie, you’ve either dined at Le Pont de la Tour or at least heard whispers about it. Born from the Butler’s Wharf redevelopment project decades ago, this long-standing staple is still shining with a distinctly Parisian charm, evident in both the decor, where the air seems to sparkle with champagne bubbles, and the food, showcasing classic recipes in all their glory.
When the weather is on my side, I prefer to snag a seat on the spacious terrace — after all, the stunning view of Tower Bridge is what we’re here for. The interior is equally nice, though, with sumptuous leather banquettes and a soft glow from table lamps that give off a perfect-for-dates vibe. The highlight of Le Pont de la Tour is the mind-blowing wine list and the knowledgeable sommelier, to whom you can happily surrender your choices. For a lavish dinner, my favorites include duck terrine with date and fig compote and tarte tatin with caramelized shallots.
Shallot tarte tatin — £24
It’s hard not to be won over by the setting at Sam’s Riverside. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame a stunning view of the Hammersmith Bridge, inviting it into the elegant yet not overly posh, space. Exquisite and tasteful, it boasts a dynamic modern interior and beautiful blooming flowers. I know they have a private room for celebrations, and I’m sure it would be a fantastic experience in terms of aesthetics.
The menu leans on British seasonal flavors, and the chef definitely has a thing for oysters. With three varieties on offer, there’s a happy hour for tasting them at 5 PM on weekdays. While I’m not a huge fan of oysters myself, I opted for mussels with shellfish bisque to start things off before switching to free-range chicken breast with gnocchi, which was perfectly moist and flavorful. A noteworthy detail is that you can clearly see the suppliers they work with, and plant-based options are always available, even on set menus.
3-course set menu — £30.5
You probably know that Barnes boasts that peaceful charm of a rural village, and Rick Stein’s restaurant fits right in. It’s not your typical flashy London dining scene, but that's the beauty of it. The atmosphere is still chic, but in a more authentic, lived-in way. The setting is beautiful, with its riverside location, large windows, spacious room, and thoughtfully arranged tables, most of which enjoy a view. One question that kept popping into my head, though — why the artificial plants? Anyway, let’s get to the food.
As you’d expect from Rick Stein, they serve delicious Cornish seafood. The salt cod fish cakes are a must-order starter, and for mains, I opted for dover sole à la meunière — perfectly executed and wonderfully buttery. The wine list, impressively extensive, spans Europe, with a few South African and New Zealand bottles making an appearance. If you're curious, it's worth exploring the house's own label as well, featuring Verdejo, Mâcon, or Garnacha varieties.
3-course set menu — £29.95
Sinking into creamy burrata with roasted peach, a sprinkle of walnuts, and a pop of mint, all while sipping on a crisp Pinot Grigio and enjoying soothing views of the river — that’s exactly what I experienced at Tavolino Bar & Kitchen. I'd definitely suggest booking a window table upstairs for the evening — Tower Bridge all lit up, practically at your doorstep, is a view that never gets old, no matter how many times you've seen it. Plus, this spot is a surefire winner if you're hosting someone visiting the capital for two reasons: first, the setting; and second — who’s ever said no to good Italian food?
I’d recommend trying beef carpaccio, sea bass filet, and any pizza that suits your taste. They also have a nice bar with straightforward, familiar cocktails and a decent wine list spanning the regions of Italy. While you may have to put up with occasional lapses in service, the overall atmosphere is pleasant and welcoming.
Margherita — £14.5