Aqua Shard (Bar, Restaurant)

Top 10 things you need to know about Aqua Shard:

1) So it’s date night. You’re nervous and want to impress. Well, you’ve made the right choice booking at one of London’s most romantic restaurants. Glam up; you’re taking your dating game to another level; 31 levels, in fact, up the iconic Shard.

2) A special night deserves special planning. When you book in advance, request a window table. Oh, and dine at sunset. You’ll see the real beauty of London from above, as it shifts from day to night.

3) Let the welcoming staff take it from here. Follow your waiter to your table and ease into the comfiest seat your bottom has ever had the pleasure of sitting on.

4) Take a moment to admire the contemporary decor and the colourful panels, illuminated by natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s uber swanky.

5) Sit back and take in one of the best views in London. Let that stunning view be your wingman/wing-girl. Unapologetically Instagram it to death. Captivate your date with your knowledge of London - the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge. If that doesn’t impress them, nothing will.

6) Gently bring your astounded date back from the view and amaze them further with the exquisite dishes on offer. Start with the Loch Etive smoked trout with delicate roe, rock samphire, crispy skin and creme fraiche. It beats that smoked salmon sandwich you had for lunch, hands-down.

7) Next, try the best steak in London: the medium-rare Hereford fillet; sumptuously tender, melt-in-the-mouth perfection with the creamiest mashed potato.

8) Don’t just order any old Merlot. Place you trust in the knowledgeable sommelier. They’ll guide you through the ever-changing seasonal wine list, for every dish. The English Bacchus white wine from Sussex can really hold it’s own against Bordeaux.

9) As light fades, so do the other diners. Just you and your date (although, if you look around, you might spot the odd movie star or two). London all to yourselves. Continue long into the night at the cocktail bar and raise your cocktail glass sky-high to a memorable night.

10) Sure, it wasn’t a cheap eat, but with food this exquisite and vistas so beautiful, Aqua Shard really takes their breath away. There’s even afternoon tea if you fancy indulging during daylight. That’s every special occasion on the calendar sorted....read more