Get back to socialising safely

With the sun coming out and the easing of lockdown restrictions, there’s lots to look forward to in the coming weeks. We have now entered a new phase of restrictions – up to six people from mixed households can meet up and enjoy dining outside while maintaining social distancing. With some of the best dining options in east London, and with the Park itself full of beautiful blooms and colourful blossoms, it’s the perfect place to meet for a long overdue catch up. We’ve put together this list of just some of the brilliant bars and restaurants with outdoor seating to help you plan your day at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Please remember to follow all Covid safety rules while visiting the Park. 

The Last Drop café
If you like your coffee with a side of views, there’s no better place in east London than The Last Drop! Its outdoor seating offers vistas of both Tessa Jowell Boulevard and the London Aquatics Centre, making your time there the most picturesque panini you’ll ever enjoy. 

Hackney Bridge Courtyard
If street food is your thing, head to Hackney Bridge courtyard where you’ll find some of London’s best vendors right here in east London. From pizza, to bagels, to tacos, there really is something for everyone at this brilliant outdoor market! And with a range of drinks and cocktails on offer, you can make an evening of it as you admire the sunset against the colourful backdrop of Hackney Bridge.

Barge East
Originally an award-winning restaurant located on an old Dutch barge, the team at Barge East have adapted over the last year and now also offer outdoor seating in their beautiful edible garden. Overlooking the canal by Hackney Wick and beautifully lit with fairy lights, this heated and covered seating area offers plenty of atmosphere in which to enjoy their delicious small plates and drinks.

Canalside at Here East
Choose from a number of restaurants and cafés, all overlooking the pretty canal and most with umbrellas or awnings to protect you from the elements. From morning until the evening you’ll find something tasty to try, including: organic plant-based meals and snacks from MOTHER; fun brunch, lunch and dinners at The Breakfast Club; flavour-packed chicken at Randy’s Wing Bar; incredible Italian cuisine at Gotto Trattoria; and check out the brand-new pub, The Lock Inn!

Ice cream and doughnuts
Whilst enjoying a picturesque walk through the acres of parklands we have on offer, look out for ice cream vans and doughnut vendors who will be ready to give you the sweet treat you’ve been craving. Or perhaps a hot drink to warm up your stroll!

Signorelli’s
Whether grabbing a quick bite of breakfast or enjoying a leisurely catch up over some coffee and cake, Signorelli’s have a range of handmade bread, cakes and pastries to tempt you at any time of day. There are two branches of this popular Italian bakery, with Signorelli IQL perfectly placed for a takeaway to take on a walk round the Park while Signorelli East Village has plenty of outdoor seating to make the most of – you can find out more about the bars and restaurants at East Village here.

Mother Kelly’s
Another East Village gem and with its awning providing a little shelter from the unpredictable weather, Mother Kelly’s is a great spot for a drink and a catch up! Their range specialises in craft beers and lagers, although there are wines and cocktails too.

IQL
Just along from the London Aquatics Centre, International Quarter London (IQL) boasts a host of top restaurants and cafés to suit every taste. The majority of these offer sheltered outdoor seating, including Tonkotsu ramen bar, the aforementioned Signorelli’s and FIGO, a restaurant combining the best of both traditional and modern Italian cooking. 

[Roots]

Check out the newly-opened [Roots] for all your cocktail cravings. The plant-packed community cocktail bar is located in East Village with a lovely terrace area so you can enjoy their botanical-inspired drinks in the fresh air.

Remember to check the latest information for each restaurant on their website or social channels before planning your visit – we recommend booking a table before travelling. Find out more about all the food and drink options at the Park here.