Eating & Drinking

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With terraces firing up the heaters and cosy blankets on hand to ward off the winter chill, drinking and dining under the stars on the Estate not only makes for a special occasion, but is also the safest way to socialise this winter while still adhering to the Government’s ‘rule of six’.

Savour creatively-crafted cocktails at The Alchemist, whose concoctions are served with a theatrical flourish, such as the gin and Pimm’s-based The Lightbulb Moment, which comes in its very own lab flask with smoke billowing from the top. Otherwise choose an indulgent festive favourite such as the Hazelnut Espresso Martini or White Forest Gateau to complement a dish from the extensive food menu. The venue has two outdoor spaces: an upstairs terrace that overlooks the bright lights of Reuters Plaza, or the immediate covered area that spills out onto Canary Wharf.

Elsewhere, known for its impressive cityscape view, Plateau hits the mark with its two al fresco rooftop spaces, while its lanterns, fairy lights and faux fur throws help to create a delightfully snug atmosphere.

Watch the world go by at La Terraza at Ibérica for a taste of Spanish cuisine on British soil with tapas, paella, artisan cheeses and cured meats by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Nacho Manzano. Meanwhile thanks to its signature style, The Ivy in the Park celebrates the great outdoors with a terrace that is adorned with foliage and potted trees, and this season offers diners a menu full of warming specials and expertly-mixed cocktails such as the Gingerbread Manhattan to ensure the Christmas spirit is in full flow. An alternative all-day dining option is No35 Mackenzie Walk – especially known for its brunch menu – where you may even be able to catch some winter rays on its stunning south-facing waterfront terrace. Humble Grape, just a minute’s walk away, is also worthy of a special mention and its wine bar-cum-shop means that you can even purchase a bottle or two to enjoy at home or give as a Christmas gift.

Elsewhere on the Estate, Crossrail Place offers an array of international cuisine at a range of eateries that are fronted by outdoor areas: taste what one reviewer calls ‘the best pizzas this side of Italy’ at Franco Manca; get the chopsticks at the ready at Japanese restaurant Sticks’n’Sushi and experience the exotic flavours of India at Chai Ki. Meanwhile for upbeat blues, views and barbecue food, head to Big Easy’s terrace.

Sticking with the American theme and bringing a touch of New York City to The Wharf, Shake Shack serves up delicious burgers, hot dogs and hand-spun shakes. Also in Canada Square is The Parlour, which overlooks the park and has its very own al fresco bar, and ROKA, where the covered area boasts plenty of overhead heaters and electric blinds to help keep the elements at bay so that diners can simply focus on enjoying the cuisine that is served straight from its Robata grill.

Finally, warm up with a dram of whiskey or two on Boisdale’s huge heated terrace, where you can also savour some classic Scottish dishes from its menu such as smoked salmon, Hebridean shellfish and oysters.

With so much on offer, even the designated drivers can rejoice during this festive season as visitors can enjoy 3 hours’ free parking when spending £10 at any of the Estate’s cafés, restaurants, bars or shops.

Find out more about Eating & Drinking at Canary Wharf

You can also read about Helaine Blumenfeld OBE in Canary Wharf.