Set against the grand neoclassical backdrop of Somerset House, there is a new riverside destination that Londoners can look forward to this summer.
If you’re looking for the pulse of London’s summer scene, look no further than Setlist. With panoramic views of the Thames, Setlist is where food, music, and art collide in a vibrant celebration of the city. Step onto the terrace and you’ll find more than just a pretty view.
Setlist’s culinary line-up is a celebration of female talent, with four acclaimed chefs taking centre stage. Chef Opy of The Future Plate brings bold, globally-inspired dishes that nod to her Nigerian heritage. Sophie Wyburd, a rising star of London’s food scene, serves up comforting plates with a twist – think pillowy pizzettes and inventive small plates. Masafina, the dynamic duo of Andrea Montes Renaud and Laura Copp, channel their Mexican roots into a menu of vibrant tacos and tostadas. And for the grand finale, Terri Mercieca of Happy Endings delivers playful, unforgettable desserts – her ice cream sundaes and soft serves already the stuff of riverside legend.
But Setlist isn’t just about what’s on your plate. From the moment you arrive, you’re swept up in a sensory experience. The venue’s two open-air terraces are perfect for sipping frozen margaritas or summer spritzes as the sun sets over the city. Inside, the 50-metre pavilion is a canvas for art installations – Brixton artist Farouk Agoro’s vibrant mural is the first of many to come.
Music pulses at the heart of Setlist. Clem Ogbonnaya, the force behind Prince of Peckham, curates a weekly programme of live performances and DJ sets. Expect everything from soulful collectives to high-energy dance nights, with a focus on emerging talent and community-driven sounds. It’s the kind of place where you might arrive for dinner and end up dancing until closing.
What sets Setlist apart is its sense of inclusivity. The venue is designed for all weathers, with plenty of indoor seating and covered terraces – so a sudden summer downpour won’t spoil the fun. There’s a relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe, whether you’re dropping in for a quick lunch, meeting friends for cocktails, or making a night of it with music and art.
As Londoners flock to the river this summer, Setlist is poised to become the city’s go-to spot for those in the know.