West Londoners, allow me to introduce you to your official summer hangout - Pergola on the Roof in White City...
Now, I must start this by saying I have heard about this nowhere, seen no advertising and can't claim that any little secret squirrels told me. I learned about Pergola on the Roof the old fashioned way - I drove past it. Naturally anything that involves flowers, a rooftop and the chance to bite into one of London's most delicious burgers is a place I'd like to be. So Mr. FFG and I made plans to block out a few weekend hours to check this place out.
Let's start with the basics. Pergola on the Roof is a popup roof terrace with bars, food stands and plenty of outdoor seating. It's set under, you guessed it, a Pergola, and replaces what I presume used to just be an old car park. Clever people, these geniuses that decided to use this space in the old TV centre as a sun worshiper's paradise. There are four restaurants on offer: Patty & Bun, Rabbit, Lecoq and Salt Yard. There's rose, white and red wine available, and let's not forget the bubbly. There's even a few "lounge" type areas for those less interested in eating and more interesting in socializing with a glass of spirits in hand.
Sadly, this roof terrace is only a popup, as mentioned. It will be around until August 29th, so there's plenty of time to get your fill. However, I must urge you to book a table! We showed up around 12:30 in the afternoon, without reservations. Although we were let up, there were no tables available. A couple kindly allowed us to perch on the end of theirs. While this is a great place to stand around with friends, tables are always preferred, right?
Mark my words - Pergola on the Roof will fill up and sell out of tables ASAP. Once this gets out (consider it out, now), it will be damn near impossible to score a seat. Don't say I didn't warn you!
Info:
Multi-Storey Car Park, Television Centre, Wood Lane, W12 7RJ
Nearest Tube: White City
Open Wednesday-Sunday.