Almost alfresco restaurants + Tom Kerridge's London plans, new City offer, Mersea Island guide, results day deals & more...

EDITOR'S LETTER

If, like me, you're not quite sure where your umbrella is (and that in itself is an odd thing for any Londoner to admit to), the next couple of days are going to change that. But it's still pretty balmy in town, hence our handy Almost Alfresco guide to the places which let you dine outside but also protect you from the elements.

One place that's usually less rainy than London is Essex. This is a meteorological fact. And if you are fancying a late summer escape from town, we can't recommend The White Hart, and Mersea Island in general, enough.

Plus, we've got some news about Tom Kerridge's big plans for his London restaurant.

Catherine, Editor - Hot Dinners

READER OFFER

Enjoy a three-course sharing menu for two in the City (with wine) for £100

Head to Straits Kitchen in the City where a sharing menu of small plates, short rib of beef along with dessert and wine could be yours for just £100 for two people.

How to get this deal

Promoted content

ALMOST ALFRESCO

Where to eat outside in London that's also weatherproof

After an entire summer without rain, Londoners may have forgotten the drill. In this city, you should normally be prepared for anything the British weather throws at you. To help with that, we've drawn up a shortlist of restaurants and bars, most with retractable roofs, so they're great come rain or shine.

Where to take cover (if you need it)

RESTAURANT NEWS

Tom Kerridge transforms his Corinthia home, opening the new Georgie's Bar and a reimagined Kerridge’s

Tom Kerridge is making a lot of changes at his Corinthia London home. The restaurant is relaunched, the bar is getting a lot bigger and yes, there will be martinis.

Here's what Kerridge is planning..,

Edmondo sees Big Mamma arriving in the City with a Milan and Enzo Ferrari-fuelled affair

We have all the details about what Big Mamma is planning for their big City launch, including XL focaccia, an Enzo Ferrari-themed PDR, lots of steaks & more...

All about Edmondo

TEST DRIVE

Road Trip - a visit to The White Hart Inn on Mersea Island

With Mersea Island a little over an hour and a half from London, this tidal island is absolutely perfect for a quick seaside getaway. And the recently opened White Hart Inn proved to be a great place to both eat and stay. We drove to Essex to check in for a night.  

Here's why you should go

Where to eat on Mersea Island

This outlying Essex island has been a popular holiday destination since Roman times. Now it’s a perfect spot if you want a quick seaside jaunt out of London. From great seafood spots to a Michelin-starred restaurant, here's where to eat when you get there.

Our Mersea guide

RESULTS DAY FREEBIES

The London restaurants giving away free food and drink on GCSE exam results days

Whatever the results are, the good news is that free pizza, pad thai, tenders and more are all on offer.

The 2026 results day bonanza

SPOTTED SOMETHING?

Noticed something restaurant or bar-related that we should know about?

Spotted a new restaurant about to open in your neighbourhood? Seen a celebrity dining out in London? Heard a piece of hospitality gossip you feel we ought to know about? Unburden yourself and tell us all about it.

Share the news...

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