Discover the best food and dining options at London Zoo

Whether you're looking for a quick coffee between exhibits or a relaxed lunch without leaving the zoo, London Zoo has plenty of dining options to keep you fuelled throughout the day. From family-friendly cafés and grab-and-go kiosks to seasonal food outlets serving sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, salads, and sweet treats, there's something for every appetite. Reservations aren't required, and if you'd prefer more variety, Regent's Park and Camden are just a short walk away with plenty of restaurants and cafés

Restaurants and dining options at London Zoo

The Terrace Restaurant

  • Cuisine: British & International
  • Ambiance: Spacious, family-friendly restaurant with indoor seating and an outdoor terrace.
  • Menu: Stone-baked pizzas, burgers, fish & chips, salads, children's meals, pastries, hot and cold drinks.
  • Timings: 10 am–5 pm (hot food served 11:30 am–3:30 pm)
  • Location: Barclay Court, near Penguin Beach and the Zoo Shop.
  • Booking: Walk-in only.
  • Good for: Families, groups, and leisurely lunches.

The Terrace Restaurant is London Zoo's main dining venue and offers the widest selection of food onsite. With generous seating, kid-friendly meals, vegetarian and vegan options, and takeaway choices, it's the best place to stop for a full meal without interrupting your day at the zoo.

Peckish Parrot Café

  • Cuisine: Café Fare
  • Ambiance: Relaxed café beside the children's play area.
  • Menu: Sandwiches, pastries, cakes, children's lunch boxes, coffee, tea, and cold drinks.
  • Timings: 10am–2:20pm
  • Location: Animal Adventure.
  • Booking: Walk-in only.
  • Good for: Families with young children and quick snack breaks.

Next to the Animal Adventure play area, Peckish Parrot Café is ideal for grabbing a light meal while the kids take a break. Its selection of sandwiches, sweet treats, and hot drinks makes it a convenient stop before continuing your zoo adventure.

Zoo Treats

  • Cuisine: Grab-and-Go Snacks
  • Ambiance: Quick-service takeaway kiosk near the entrance.
  • Menu: Fresh pastries, sandwiches, hot drinks, cold beverages, and packaged snacks.
  • Timings: 10am–2:30pm (Friday–Sunday)
  • Location: Near the main entrance.
  • Booking: Walk-in only.
  • Good for: Breakfast, coffee, and visitors short on time.

If you're arriving early or need a quick bite between exhibits, Zoo Treats is an excellent option. Pick up a coffee, pastry, or freshly made sandwich before starting your visit or while making your way around the zoo.

Penguin Beach Café

  • Cuisine: Light Snacks & Refreshments
  • Ambiance: Casual outdoor café overlooking Penguin Beach.
  • Menu: Hot and cold drinks, ice creams, light snacks, and seasonal refreshments.
  • Timings: Seasonal opening hours.
  • Location: Beside Penguin Beach.
  • Booking: Walk-in only.
  • Good for: Coffee breaks and light refreshments.

Situated beside one of the zoo's most popular exhibits, Penguin Beach Café is the perfect place to pause with a drink or snack while watching the Humboldt penguins swim, dive, and interact in their expansive pool.

Woodland Kiosk

  • Cuisine: Snacks & Beverages
  • Ambiance: Small refreshment kiosk in a peaceful woodland setting.
  • Menu: Hot drinks, cold drinks, packaged snacks, and light refreshments.
  • Timings: 10am–2:30pm (weekends; seasonal)
  • Location: Woodland area.
  • Booking: Walk-in only.
  • Good for: Quick refreshments while exploring nearby exhibits.

Tucked away in one of the quieter corners of London Zoo, Woodland Kiosk is a handy stop for a coffee or snack without heading back to the main restaurant. It's a convenient option if you're exploring the surrounding animal habitats.

Restaurants near London Zoo

Prefer to eat outside the zoo? Within a 10–15 minute walk, you'll find everything from relaxed park cafés and family-friendly eateries to authentic international restaurants and elegant fine dining.

Regent's Bar & Kitchen

  • Cuisine: British & European
  • Vibe: Bright, modern restaurant overlooking Regent's Park.
  • Booking: Walk-ins welcome; reservations recommended at busy times.
  • Distance from London Zoo: 10-minute walk.

Set in the heart of Regent's Park, Regent's Bar & Kitchen serves seasonal British dishes, brunch favourites, salads, and wood-fired pizzas in a spacious setting with indoor and outdoor seating. It's a great choice for families and visitors looking to dine in a peaceful park setting.

Ceylone 1948

  • Cuisine: Sri Lankan
  • Vibe: Casual neighbourhood restaurant with authentic home-style cooking.
  • Booking: Walk-ins welcome.
  • Distance from London Zoo: 8-minute walk.

If you're after something different, Ceylone 1948 offers traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, including hoppers, kottu, fragrant curries, and fresh seafood dishes. Its welcoming atmosphere and generous portions make it a local favourite.

Greenberry Café

  • Cuisine: Modern European Café
  • Vibe: Stylish all-day café popular for brunch and speciality coffee.
  • Booking: Walk-ins welcome.
  • Distance from London Zoo: 10-minute walk.

Located in nearby Primrose Hill, Greenberry Café is known for its excellent breakfasts, fresh salads, sandwiches, homemade cakes, and quality coffee. It's an ideal stop for a relaxed brunch or afternoon break.

Feng Shang Princess

  • Cuisine: Chinese
  • Vibe: Iconic floating restaurant overlooking Regent's Canal.
  • Booking: Reservations recommended.
  • Distance from London Zoo: 5-minute walk.

One of London's most unique restaurants, Feng Shang Princess serves classic Chinese dishes in a beautiful floating pavilion on Regent's Canal. The waterside setting makes it an excellent choice for a memorable lunch or dinner.

Oslo Court Restaurant

  • Cuisine: Classic French
  • Vibe: Elegant, old-school fine dining.
  • Booking: Reservations recommended.
  • Distance from London Zoo: 12-minute walk.

A beloved London institution for decades, Oslo Court is celebrated for its classic French cuisine, attentive service, and timeless atmosphere. It's a wonderful option if you're planning a special meal after your visit to London Zoo.

Frequently asked questions about London Zoo restaurants

Yes. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the zoo. Picnic tables are available throughout the grounds if you'd prefer to enjoy a packed lunch.