Iconic London rooftop restaurant and terrace bar, Aviary, at the sophisticated Montcalm Hotel Liverpool Street, has just unveiled the results of its stylish summer refurbishment, and the timing couldn’t be more perfect. Just in time for visitors to soak up the sunshine over a cocktail or enjoy a decadent dining experience al fresco, its new look is colourful, contemporary and endlessly sophisticated, and since the big reveal, it has fast been becoming the hottest new place to see and be seen in the capital, as well as to drink, dine and relax.
In a city that’s awash with fashionable venues and notable bars and restaurants, it can often be tough to stand out from the crowd – but the Aviary is doing just that. Attracting a trendy and affluent crowd who come to socialise, relax and indulge in some delicious food and drink, the rooftop destination enjoys the best of the summer sunshine, making it an inviting space for post-work drinks, long weekend lunches and memorably sun-soaked dinners with friends.
Gone are the winter terrace igloos the venue had become known for over the preceding months, and whether sipping on cocktails as you sunbathe with friends or watching the sun set over the central London skyline while gorging on fresh oysters and succulent steak is on your summer agenda, the opulent emerald greens and vibrant oranges of the new colour palette create the perfect atmosphere in which to do them all.
The all-new VIP section is designed to ensure guests feel like royalty, with plush sofas overlooking some of the best views in London. Interior transformation features include stylish black and white parquet-patterned tables, bright orange pouffes, paisley sofas and floral cushions with touches of nature.
The space’s zesty new feel is matched by the energy being served up over at the cocktail bar, where the ‘Crouching Tiger’, with its bold flavours of Ojo de Tigre and mezcal with agave syrup and yuzu purée, is a must try. If you’re looking for something a little more fruity, then the ‘Mother Nature’ has got you covered, comprising zingy rhubarb and calming chamomile syrup paired with Belvedere Vodka – but these two, of course, are only a taster of what’s on offer.
The Aviary’s mouth-watering dining menu is perhaps one of its biggest draws, and dishes up a decadent feast of distinctly Mediterranean flavours. From the creamy truffle burrata and English heritage tomatoes to the seared tuna with marinated egg yolk, cucumber and olive tapenade, the varied list of starters offers a taste of what’s to come, and suffice it to say, its inspired flavour combinations certainly don’t disappoint.
For mains, you can take your pick from a selection of deliciously fresh oysters sourced from across the UK, Ireland and Channel Islands, or indulge in a juicy Bertha oven steak – a prime cut of British beef, aged for up to 45 days and cooked in the Aviary’s 550°C cast iron Bertha oven. Or, you can opt for another of the tasty dishes on offer – whether it’s the courgette tortelloni with shaved truffle and roasted radicchio; wild Cornish turbot on the bone with butter sauce and sesame asparagus, or something else that tickles your fancy on the day.
Desserts are suitably decadent, too. For a truly gluttonous way to end your meal, you can’t go wrong with the sticky toffee pudding with popcorn, muu coconut, mango and cotton candy, which is served up with strawberry, marshmallow and meringue for an unforgettable fusion of textures and flavours you won’t be able to help falling in love with.
Of course, you’ll need something good to wash it all down with, and the rooftop restaurant’s extensive selection of wines from across Europe ensures that there’s something for everyone – whether you’re craving a crisp white, a rich and luxurious red, or are eager to pop a cork and celebrate a special occasion with one of the 13 different champagnes on offer.
Whether you’re looking to lounge around on a chilled Sunday afternoon, or enjoy a drink under the stars, there is no better venue to take in the sights of London – and if you’re visiting the city, then the Montcalm’s opulent selection of stylish rooms and suites is just downstairs, and promises a luxurious stay. Plus, on Liverpool Street, you’re right in the thick of the Central London action should you wish to head out and explore the city.
Factbox
To dine or pop in for a drink, all bookings can be made via the website, aviarylondon.com.
Address: Royal London House, 10th Floor Montcalm, 22-25 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1DX
Phone: 020 3873 4060
