We made it. Finally, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. April 12th marks the start of new beginnings; restaurants, pubs and bars are finally able to open again and we’re allowed to dine-out – as long as they have an outdoor seating area. From sky high city views to ocean dining, we’ve chosen 6 of our favourite al fresco spots around the UK. Not only do they each have something unique to offer, they’re also Caleño-approved – i.e. non-alcohol alternatives aren’t an afterthought.
If you live in Leeds, we’re sure you know about Angelica. And if you don’t, we recommend making a booking asap. Situated on the 6th floor of the Trinity Leeds building, the restaurant has a huge outdoor terrace, with beautiful views over the city – just as well, because you can’t sit inside until May 16th. Dining begins at brunch and runs through until the evening. It’s quite a refined menu; we’re talking lobster, oysters, charcuterie boards and chateaubriand. Personally, we’re happy with some sharing plates and cocktails – oh, the cocktails.
The Bluebird cafe has come a long way from its days where only the MIC cast were allowed – Made in Chelsea for those who aren’t down with the reality TV lingo. Nestled between the artistic buildings on the King’s Road, Chelsea, the outside seating area is rather like a courtyard. A mixture of tables line the outside, while bar stools hug a high table in the middle. It’s a great brunch spot and if you don’t feel like something alcoholic so early, we hear there’s a nice Caleño cocktail on the menu…
Picture this: you’re sitting on the terrace, overlooking the ocean, watching the boats dock in the harbour for the evening – maybe you have a spritz in hand. The sun is slowly going down, but it’s Ok, there are heaters nearby to keep you warm. The waiter comes over with a selection of tapas – 3 for £13.95. Oh, and cocktails are 2 for £10? Another round please.
Convinced? We’ll race you there…
Another one for those who prefer their restaurants with a view. 20 Stories is actually on the 19th floor of No. 1 Spinningfields, overlooking all of Manchester. Food critic Grace Dent named it one of her ‘favourite dinners’ in 2018, and we can see why. We won’t beat around the bush. Food isn’t cheap. But it’s worth it. And we love that they try and use local and seasonal ingredients where possible. The cocktail menu is one of the biggest we’ve seen and for once, non-alcoholic spirits are in abundance too.
5. Revolución de Cuba, Bristol
We can’t go on holiday (for now) but we can do our best to pretend. How about Cuba? Tropical Punch, Caribbean cocktails (we recommend the Caleñita – Caleño, pineapple, caramel, lime… you won’t even notice the rum is missing), a little reggae – and let’s not forget the Latin-inspired food. Well, the outside terrace at Revolución de Cuba is finally open. Right on the river, this restaurant brings the escapism we’ve all been missing for the last few months. Oh, we do like a fiesta.
Swap your lounge at home for a lounge on the river – no, you can’t wear your joggers but we promise you’ll feel just as ‘at home’. Once the home of Tiffany’s nightclub in the 50s and 60s, Puerto Lounge is now a relaxing hideaway. With a terrace that looks over the River Exe, by the footbridge of the historic Quayside area, it’s a local favourite. Feeling active? Why not take out a kayak or pedalo? If you’re lucky enough to peak inside, the decor is pretty funky – mix and match, yet still boasts the historic character of the building. And if you have acquired a dog over lockdown, you’ll be glad to know they’re invited too.
