The Shard, the UK’s tallest building, hosts several restaurants between its 31st and 35th floors, offering panoramic views of London. Dining options include Aqua Shard, serving contemporary British cuisine with special diet choices; Oblix, known for British grill dishes; and Hutong, featuring Northern Chinese and pan-Asian flavors. Prices vary, with some venues offering brunch, dinner, and afternoon tea. Reservations are recommended during busy periods. Further details provide insight into menu highlights and dining experiences.
The Shard in London is the tallest building in the United Kingdom, reaching 309.6 meters in height, and houses several restaurants between its 31st and 35th floors. These dining venues offer a unique experience, combining fine cuisine with panoramic views of the London skyline through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Notable restaurants include Aqua Shard on Level 31, Oblix on Level 32, and Hutong on Level 33. Each provides a distinct atmosphere and menu, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Aqua Shard specializes in contemporary British cuisine, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, some of which come from nearby Borough Market. It features a lively, cosmopolitan environment and an impressive three-story atrium bar that enhances the dining atmosphere. The restaurant is also recognized in the Michelin Guide UK 2025, highlighting its culinary excellence and creative vision. Aqua Shard is located on Level 31 of The Shard and offers 360-degree views of London. Visitors can also enjoy the luxurious ambiance that enhances the overall dining experience. The restaurant is part of The Shard’s role as a landmark in the city that attracts both tourists and locals.
Aqua Shard offers contemporary British dishes with seasonal ingredients and a vibrant three-story atrium bar ambiance.
The menu includes starter dishes priced from £16, mains over £40, and lunch set menus around £44 per person. Brunch and afternoon tea options are also available, with afternoon tea starting at £61, and weekend brunch ranging from £55 to £85, including wine. Aqua Shard accommodates special diets such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.
Oblix offers a modern British grill-style menu, emphasizing British beef and seafood cooked over an open fire. It presents a casual, urban dining experience inspired by the New York skyline. Prices reflect its premium status, with dishes like beef fillet costing around £67. Dinner service typically begins in the early evening.
Hutong provides Northern Chinese cuisine with dishes such as chicken satay and Pad Thai, blending British and pan-Asian influences. It operates for lunch and dinner daily, with its bar open until midnight or later on some days. Main courses start at about £35, with tasting menus ranging from £39 for lunch to over £105 for dinner. Sunday lunch is not available.
Reservations are recommended during peak times, though walk-ins are usually accepted. Some venues may close on special occasions. Overall, dining at The Shard combines quality food with spectacular views, making it a notable destination for visitors to London.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code at the Shard Restaurant?
The dress code at The Shard restaurants is generally smart casual, excluding sportswear, beachwear, shorts, sandals, and torn denim.
Venues like Oblix, Hutong, and Aqua Shard permit smart casual attire without formal requirements, while Shangri-La Hotel and Ting require smart dress, including jackets for men and dresses for women.
For special events, dress codes may be stricter. Visitors should wear neat footwear and avoid overly casual clothing to meet expectations.
Are Reservations Required for the Shard Restaurant?
Reservations are not strictly required at The Shard Restaurant but are strongly advised due to high demand.
Bookings open three months in advance and require credit card details to secure.
Walk-ins are accepted but may face long waits or limited seating, especially during peak times.
Larger groups must contact the event team directly.
Cancellation fees apply if reservations are cancelled within 24 hours.
Advance booking guarantees better availability and reduces wait times.
Is There Parking Available Near the Shard Restaurant?
Parking near The Shard restaurant is available through several options.
Valet parking is provided at Shangri-La The Shard for about £50 per 24 hours, with luggage assistance included.
Public parking facilities, such as The Circle Car Park and Q-Park Tower Bridge, are within walking distance.
Many lots accept pre-booking via platforms like JustPark, which is recommended to secure spaces, especially during busy weekday hours and to avoid congestion charges in central London.
Does the Shard Restaurant Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Yes, The Shard’s restaurants accommodate dietary restrictions, but requirements vary by venue.
Oblix asks guests to inform waitstaff upon arrival about allergies or dietary needs, noting possible cross-contamination risks.
Hutong requires advance notice when booking to prepare gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free options, though halal options are limited.
Aqua Shard advises guests to notify servers of allergies or intolerances, offering gluten-free and vegan dishes, but warns cross-contamination cannot be fully ruled out.
Are Children Allowed at the Shard Restaurant?
Children are allowed in most Shard restaurants when accompanied by an adult, but age restrictions apply in bar areas after 5 p.m. and in all venues after 9 p.m., when only guests 18 and older may enter.
Some restaurants, like Aqua Shard, provide children’s menus for ages 5-10 and require children to be included in reservations.
Evening dining typically enforces smart casual dress codes and no children under 18 policies.
