Outdoor Tables in Knightsbridge for the May Bank Holiday Weekend
The early May bank holiday falls on Monday 4 May, and with it comes the first long weekend of the year when eating outside feels like a plan rather than a gamble. Knightsbridge is not short of grand dining rooms, but good terraces are rarer, and the best of them book up fast as soon as the forecast turns. Here is where to aim for a long lunch or an early evening drink in the open air.
La Môme London, The Berkeley
The biggest terrace story in the neighbourhood is still La Môme, the London outpost of the Cannes restaurant, which took over the former Marcus Wareing and Collins Room spaces at The Berkeley early last year. It is run by brothers Ugo and Antoine Lecorché, who also operate La Môme in Cannes and Monaco, and it came with a newly created terrace and a ten-seat bar. When it was announced, the brothers promised Riviera classics such as a shareable lobster roll, large crudo platters and rack of lamb with pine nuts, and the whole place is built for long, sociable meals. Hot Dinners has the background on the restaurant.
The Berkeley Bar and Terrace
For something calmer, the same hotel's Bar and Terrace is known for its vintage wines by the glass, which makes it a rare chance to try serious bottles without committing to one. It is a natural first stop before dinner at La Môme, or a destination in its own right on a warm evening. While you are there, Cedric Grolet's Counter, where the hotel's pâtissier-in-residence has pastries piped in front of guests, is worth a detour. See the hotel's restaurants and bars for the full line-up.
Brunch on Pavilion Road
A short walk south, Pavilion Road has become one of the most pleasant streets in SW1 for a relaxed morning. Granger and Co has terrace seating and serves a breakfast menu that includes the Fresh Aussie and a coconut bowl, with Bill's Plate at lunch. It suits a slow start before a walk through the garden squares or an afternoon in Hyde Park.
Tips for a sunny bank holiday
- Book outside specifically. Terrace tables are often allocated separately, so ask for one when you reserve and have a fallback inside.
- Go early or late. Midday on Sunday is the busiest slot of the weekend. A 12pm Saturday lunch or a 6pm Monday drink is far easier.
- Bring a layer. Early May evenings cool down quickly once the sun drops behind the buildings.
- Check holiday hours. Some kitchens change their service times on bank holidays.
Getting there
The Berkeley is on Wilton Place, SW1X, about five minutes' walk from both Knightsbridge and Hyde Park Corner stations. Pavilion Road runs parallel to Sloane Street, between Knightsbridge and Sloane Square. For more ideas across the area, see our guide to The Berkeley and our full list of Knightsbridge restaurants.
