Picnics in the city can be romantic. As long as one overlooks the pelting rain, the threat of hungry pigeons and the possibility of lying on a dog turd.

Or five.

Theo Randall’s new restaurant, opening on Park Lane today, is a safer way to dine in the park. Formerly a partner and ex-head chef at The River Cafe, he’s opened a newly refurbished spot in The InterContinental overlooking Hyde Park.

Randall’s personal interpretation of regional Italian food includes an extensive selection of antipasti and classic dishes with a modern twist — char-grilled squid with chickpeas or tagliatelle with fresh porcini to start, followed by wood-roasted Dover sole with red and golden beetroot — along with a range of wine and traditional desserts.

A veritable picnic, your meal can be consumed in absolute comfort while you overlook one of London’s greenest spots.

Turds not included.

Theo Randall at The InterContinental, 1 Hamilton Place, Park Lane, W1J 7QY (020 7318 8747 or theorandall.com).