Sipping Sunshine at Comptoir Libanais, Kingston
There’s something about summer time in Kingston Upon Thames that just hits different. The air feels vibrant, everyone comes out of winter hibernation and the whole borough livens up.
There’s something unbeatable about a cold drink on a hot day, especially when you’re drinking it on the river side with views. Even more so when you’ve been out with the kids all day and everyone’s ready for a breather.
It was a summer afternoon, we landed at one of favourite restaurants, Comptoir Libanais, not exactly planned, rather perfectly timed.
We stopped off at Comptoir Libanais, one of my absolute go-to spots when the sun is shining and we want something delicious, fresh, tasty but not too spicy and just a little bit different. Think bold colours, patterned chairs, and a menu bursting with Lebanese flavours, and right in front of me? This icy bright green dream.
Mint, lime, crushed ice… absolute refreshment goals. Their signature lemon and mint drink is everything you could hope for and more on a warm afternoon. It’s zesty, sweet-but-not-too-sweet, and so cooling it practically counts as air con in a tall glass. It’s the kind of drink that perks you up right up after a long walk along the riverside, or an adventure in the secret gardens of Hampton Court Palace with the kids. It’s especially true when the kids have been racing each other and requesting snacks every ten steps.
We sat outside the restaurant and in the summer sunshine, the kids sipping fresh juices and sharing little plates while watching boats drift lazily along the Thames. There’s a real charm to Kingston’s riverside during each season. In the summer time there’s music in the air, laughter from nearby tables, and that feeling of having nowhere you need or want to be except right here. Simply enjoying life.
Moments like this are simple, sunny, joy-filled and they are exactly what I try to hold onto. The kind of days that remind you that happiness doesn’t have to be fancy. Sometimes it’s just a cold fresh drink, happy kids, and a beautiful view.
If you haven’t tried Comptoir’s summer drinks yet? Definitely get adding it to your list and thank me later!
Where’s your favourite spot for sunshine sips and riverside views? Let me know your summer gems — I’m always up for trying somewhere new with the kids!
