Sky-High Brunches In London

Londoners have well and truly embraced the New York tradition of brunch, but recently, the British city has seen this previously low-key (and low-rise) weekend date elevated to a whole new level. These three brunch joints don’t just offer a treat for the tastebuds; they indulge the eyes with fabulous views of the London skyline.

Duck & Waffle at Heron Tower, 40th floor Currently London (and the UK’s) highest restaurant, Duck & Waffle is also one of a handful of 24-hour joints in the city; you’ll find it doing a brisk trade at 5am on a Sunday. The restaurant’s namesake dish of crispy confit duck leg topped with a fried duck egg and served on a syrup-sodden waffle is a highlight, but the decadence continues with spicy ox cheek doughnuts and grilled meat and fish sharing platters. Lording it up over the neighboring Gherkin as you dine only adds to the thrill.

Darwin at Sky Garden, level 36 The more casual, affordable (and in fact boasting better views) alternative to the fine dining Fenchurch upstairs, Darwin is the current hotspot for a buffet brunch in the city. The prawn cocktail is a highlight, but leave space for blueberry cheesecake afterwards. With a botanical, jungle-like interior and double-height floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking The Shard and the river, there is plenty to distract you from a second plate of waffles. Sky Garden, 1 Sky Garden Walk; 44-333-772-0020

Hutong at The Shard, 33rd floor From noon until 3pm, this note-perfect Chinese restaurant serves up memorable dim sum and northern Chinese fare, surrounded by silk curtains, hand-carved wooden furniture, crimson lanterns and city views. It’s equally atmospheric in the evening, when the city lights up across the river. 33, The Shard, 31 St Thomas St; 44-203-011-1257