Where to eat al fresco in London

Tom's Terrace
Somerset House, Strand, WC2
(020 7845 4646, somersethouse.org.uk)
This summer the elegantly canopied terrace overlooking the Thames at the rear of Somerset House will feature a new menu created by Tom Aikens. Dishes include grilled paillard of chicken salad, hot smoked Loch Duart salmon, Eton Mess and mango rice pudding. Great river views.

Paternoster Chop House
Warwick Court, Paternoster Square, EC4
(020 7029 9400, danddlondon.com)
There are about 40 tables outside this City stalwart but they are sought after and so booking makes good sense. The menu here makes great use of British produce and there is a particular emphasis on careful sourcing of rare breed meat and day boat fish.

The Modern Pantry
48 Saint John's Square, EC1
(020 7553 9210, themodernpantry.co.uk)
Anna Hansen's original take on flavour and texture combinations drives this informal and inspired restaurant with an eclectic menu that defies easy classification. There are six al fresco tables, but outdoors it's first come, first served, so you'd best turn up promptly — opens at noon.

Bentley's Restaurant
11-15 Swallow Street, W1
(020 7734 4756, bentleys.org)
Richard Corrigan has breathed new life into this old stager. Swallow Street is now pedestrianised and has a sociable string of tables and umbrellas running down the middle. Time to pause awhile and tuck into some splendid fresh fish with a bottle or so of crisp white wine. Note the magnificent soda bread and the availability of Guinness.

Manicomio
85 Duke Of York Square, SW3
(020 7730 3366, manicomio.co.uk)
Rather large, rather slick, rather Chelsea the 40 outside tables are all bookable. Good, unfussy Italian cooking, perfect for ladies lunching al fresco (there are umbrellas and heaters should the British summer live down to our expectations!).