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15 Best Riverfront Restaurants

15 of the best riverfront restaurants in south west London

Explore London’s riverfront dining with our curated list of top spots offering stunning views and exquisite cuisine

By Natasha Berman

Main image credit: Milly Fletcher

1 Bingham Riverhouse

Richmond, TW10 6UT

Bingham Riverhouse is a standout among riverfront restaurants. Nestled within a boutique hotel, this acclaimed spot features an elegant Georgian-style setting with lush garden views and serves contemporary British cuisine. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating, including enchanting private dining domes that resemble magical igloos.

(c) Helen Cathcart

2 Gaucho Richmond

Richmond, TW9 1TH

​​With its modern design and glass-paneled interior, this Argentine steakhouse boasts panoramic views of Richmond Bridge and Petersham Meadows. The newly refurbished riverside terrace features one of London’s oldest plane trees and is perfect for dining with a view.

3 River Cafe

Hammersmith, W6 9HA

Explore a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant with a minimalist design and a beautiful riverside garden for alfresco dining. Enjoy good indoor seating, but aim for a window view at select tables to enhance your experience.

4 Rick Stein, Barnes

Barnes, SW14 8SN

Renowned for its fresh seafood dishes inspired by Rick Stein’s travels, this celebrated restaurant overlooks the serene River Thames. Inside, you can request a window seat. 

(c) Milly Fletcher

5 Scott’s Richmond

Richmond, TW9 1EH

This sophisticated seafood restaurant by the river offers picturesque views and a menu of luxury seafood options. When the weather is fine, head to the grand balcony. Inside, enjoy the view from the glamorous downstairs dining room through the expansive windows.

6 The Waterfront

Battersea, SW18 1TS

Experience casual dining with panoramic river views at this restaurant, featuring a spacious terrace ideal for sunny days and a menu showcasing a variety of British and Mediterranean dishes. Both indoor and outdoor patio seating offer views of the River Thames.

7 Thai Square Putney Bridge

Putney, SW15 1JN

Offering authentic Thai cuisine and a 180-degree panoramic view of the Thames, this is an ideal choice for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Thai Square at Putney Bridge features both indoor and outdoor seating on the patio.

8 The Crabtree

Fulham, W6 9HA

Experience an historic pub exuding Victorian charm and offering riverside views. Additionally, the outdoor bar and BBQ, known as The Crabshack, complements their beer garden, perfect for summer evenings. The river terrace, an extension of the indoor restaurant, is reserved for walk-ins and boasts the best tables. 

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9 Fiume

Battersea, SW8 5BN

Fiume Restaurant features a terrace with beautiful Thames views, ideal for outdoor dining amidst lavender pots and lemon trees. Inside, you can enjoy elegant seating and a menu focused on Southern Italian flavours.

10 The Mitre

Hampton Court, KT8 9BN

Situated next to the iconic Hampton Court Palace, this restaurant offers picturesque views of the Thames and a menu featuring modern British cuisine. The Mitre also includes a sophisticated bar where you can savour crafted cocktails while taking in the riverside setting.

11 The Dove

Hammersmith, W6 9TA

This historic 17th-century pub, voted one of the top in London; features cosy interiors, a charming riverside terrace, and traditional British dishes. They also offer a wide selection of ales and is dog-friendly.

12 Chakra Kingston Riverside

Kingston, KT1 1QN

Enjoy elegant Indian cuisine by the riverside in a vibrant setting with an inviting terrace and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is small dog-friendly with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a gorgeous interior with window booths and outdoor seating right on the Thames.

13 The Ship

Wandsworth, SW18 1TB

An iconic riverside pub known for its lively atmosphere and ample outdoor seating along the Thames, though keep in mind that the covered seating is limited. Renowned for its Sunday roasts and craft beers, their parties on the terrace are popular in the summertime.

14 No 29 Power Station West

Battersea Power Station, SW11 8EG

No 29 Restaurant boasts stylish decor, a relaxed atmosphere, and stunning views of the Thames from the iconic Battersea Power Station. With both indoor seating and an outdoor terrace, it offers a great dining option despite slightly more limited river views than other venues.

15 The Boathouse

Putney, SW15 2JX

A classic pub offering a laid-back atmosphere with extensive outdoor seating on the Thames, The Boathouse offers seasonal menus with fresh seafood and a cozy bar. Located in the heart of Putney, it also features live music on weekends, making it a perfect spot for an evening on the water.