When you’re just starting dating, a good restaurant or bar choice can make a huge contribution to your enjoyment of the occasion and set the tone for the future. With the summer in full swing, there are few things better to create a romantic atmosphere on a warm balmy evening than eating or drinking al fresco.
Here are a few handpicked places that are certain to earn you some brownie points when you are seeking exclusive dating in London.
River Cafe
Our favourite is the River Cafe in Hammersmith with its large garden close to the river serving sublime Italian food. Not inexpensive and not exactly central but impressive in every way. Not easy to get a reservation but major kudos if you do.
La Poule au Pot
La Poule au Pot is a traditional French bistro with a lovely terrace on Pimlico Green and it is romantically candle-lit inside and outside.
Chiltern Firehouse
Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone will make the greatest impression on a first date. It is a new spot in town and you may find it hard to get a reservation but it does have a large, non-booking, gorgeous terrace so go early and try for a table. There’s always Il Baretto 50 yards away or Fischer’s on Marylebone High Street if you’re not successful, both excellent.
Colbert
Colbert on Sloane Square is a French brasserie with a small terrace on the square. Great fun inside and out and really buzzing.
Boudin Blanc
Boudin Blanc is a French traditional restaurant with a good terrace in the ever-lively Shepherd Market. It has a very reliable food, good atmosphere and is always busy.
Sushisamba
If you prefer a less formal drink date for your first encounter there is also plenty to choose from, with suntrap rooftop bars opening all over London… Sushisamba, the recently open Japanese/Brazilian/Peruvian concoction occupying the top floors of one of the highest buildings in the City – Heron Tower, offers breath-taking views down over the adjacent Gherkin, the Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral and much else besides. Its outdoor roof terrace bar serves fabulous cocktails in an unbeatable ambiance.
Vista
Perched on top of the Trafalgar Hotel in Trafalgar Square, Vista gives a whole new perspective to some of London’s most famous sights: the Nelson’s Column, the London Eye and Big Ben. Perfect for cocktails or sipping champagne, it is the ultimate city haven.
Boundary Rooftop
Another unsurprisingly popular spot is the Boundary Rooftop in Shoreditch. It has a weatherproof pergola allowing the bar and dining area to stay open in all weathers, and heaters to keep the chill off. The new garden design makes it a wonderfully stylish and unique space, perfect for making a great first impression.
Partner with our high-end London matchmakers
At Maclynn (formerly Vida), we believe that exclusive dating in London is not just about putting two people in touch. We want the entire dating experience to be fun and exciting, so we are always happy to help make recommendations on dating venues. Follow us on twitter and Facebook for updates of our blogs.
By Joanna Dydak Zangarini
