Want to celebrate the 5th November with a bang this year? It’s obvious that the best view of a firework display is out in a park or even in your own back garden with some hot chocolate and a sparkler, but let’s face it, it’s getting very cold out there. Why not watch a dazzling display in the warmth and comfort of a restaurant sipping a glass of champers? The same goes too for New Year’s Eve (it will come around quicker than you think), welcome 2017 in style and watch the colourful action unfold below from these fabulous restaurants in the heart of the city.
1. Duck & Waffle
This highly popular restaurant is located on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower in Bishopsgate and what can we say… the view is what you can expect from a 40th floor. It is known as the highest 24/7 restaurant in London and is ready serve at sunrise or sunset with traditional British cuisine that has a playful twist. The local and sustainably sourced menu is designed for sharing and sampling, complemented by very creative cocktails and a buzzing atmosphere to get you into the party vibe. The breath-taking view over London, especially at sunset or at night will definitely not let you down and is worth travelling up 40 floors (in the lift, of course). The restaurant takes group bookings and offers an intimate environment where you can celebrate with your closest friends and watch the skies light up with fireworks! Also, Duck & Waffle are taking bookings for a 1920s-inspired New Year’s Eve party all set for razzle-dazzle, with live entertainment and even a themed dress code. Take a look at their website for more details.
2. Oblix at The Shard
The first place that pops to mind if you hear ‘restaurants with a view’ is probably The Shard… and with good reason! Oblix restaurant is just half way up The Shard on the 32nd floor, boasting the most stunning panoramic views of the London skyline which goes hand-in-hand with a pretty cool menu. The dining and setting is more contemporary than Duck & Waffle, guaranteed to get all of your senses going and you’ll notice the emphasis on precision and sophistication. Even if you decide to walk in for a drink, the American-inspired bar has whatever you desire so you can (and we quote Oblix here) “Vive Le Cock-Tail”.
3. Min Jiang Restaurant
We now head over to the lovely Kensington, where you’ll find the most authentic Chinese restaurant in the capital. Located on the 10th floor of the Royal Garden Hotel, Min Jiang is the perfect place to relax and enjoy fantastic cuisine as you gaze over Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park and the iconic skylines. There is a wide variety of dishes from seafood to steak and also includes the restaurant’s signature dish: Beijing Duck. Believe us when we say that even the picture of this legendary dish on the website brings instant hunger pangs! The menu is reasonably priced, which means more to spend on the quirky cocktails and perhaps an oriental speciality tea to bring the evening to a perfect end.
Of course, you don’t have to stay inside and watch London’s skies illuminate from a window. If you want to get stuck into the action chanting ‘oooh’ and ‘ahhh’ amongst the crowd, our top suggestions for the best displays are the Alexandra Palace, Wimbledon Park, Ealing and Bishops Park among a long list of others scattered around London! Remember the 5th November with your loved ones and enjoy an evening of fireworks, funfairs and activities for all the family. Just make sure you wrap up warm!
