While tourists often flock towards St Paul’s to marvel at its iconic Cathedral and take in nearby sights during the day, most gravitate back towards the centre of London when the sun starts to set.
The thing is, despite being hidden in plain sight, St Paul boasts a thriving bar and restaurant scene that shouldn’t be overlooked.
From elegant bars with breathtaking rooftop views to hidden nooks making some of the city’s very best Asian dishes, here are a few of the very best:
Madison
When it comes to the best rooftop bars in London, Madison is actually one worth going out of your way to experience. For the summer season, the restaurant has transformed its iconic rooftop into a glam, bohemian paradise with an influx of plants and palms, too, creating a space that’s truly hard to leave (especially after a few of their new frozen cocktails). Enjoy margarita lobster tacos, smoked tofu poke bowls, sumptuous steaks, and more.
Rooftop Terrace, One New Change, London EC4M 9AF
Patch
Patch is a popular after-work and late night hotspot, both inside and out
When the sun sets and the city’s night-crawlers come out to play, Patch emerges as a bit of a hotspot. It’s a fun one; great happy hours, delicious small plates, and regular sets from renowned DJs. Try the Don’t Dilly Dally: hendricks’s gin, Velvet Falernum liqueur, dill infusion, lemon, and egg white.
58-60 Carter Lane, London EC4V 6DR
Paternoster Chop House
Paternoster Chop House stands as a testament to timeless British dining with a contemporary twist. This iconic restaurant, made famous by its appearance in the hit TV series “MasterChef,” has become a go-to destination for meat enthusiasts. With a three-course set menu at £30 ($37), it’s also brilliant value for the quality.
35 Old Bailey, London EC4M 7AU
Sabine
Sabine’s rooftop boasts gorgeous views of St Paul’s Cathedral
The hidden gem of the Leonardo Royal Hotel, Sabine offers respite from the urban buzz. With rooftop views that stretch as far as the eye can see, it’s the perfect spot to indulge in some Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, luxe cocktails, and top-tier people watching.
10 Godliman Street, London EC4V 5AJ
Fleets
In the historical enclave of Fleet Street, Fleets stands as something of a diamond in rough. Its broad-but brilliant menu covers everything from fish and chips (beer battered haddock and triple cooked chunks, in this case) to brunch0time chicken and waffles (double fried and served with crispy bacon, sweet chilli sauce, kale, spring onion, and red chilli).
44-46 Ludgate Hill, London EC4M 7DE
Chi Noodle and Wine Bar
This hidden gem specializes in small Asian dishes to share
Chi Noodle and Wine Bar opened in September 1999 with the simple aim of producing fast, healthy and nutritious Pan Asian food. In the twenty-plus years since, its become an irrefutable staple of the area, serving an eclectic mix of noodle, soup and rice dishes from south east Asia. The Kway Teow and rare Thai beef salad are legendary.
5 New Bridge Street, Bride Court, London EC4V 6AB