The OXO tower has a fine restaurant with superb views over the historic city of London. I've eaten there and a three course meal for two with wine came to about £100($200) There is also a free viewing area.Historicaly this area without the city(outside) was somewhat free and easy with The Globe playhouse,bear bating,cock fighting,the stews ( brothels) and the Clink (prison) building still there and open.Henry V111 cleaned it up and later on the Puritans.Now it is a popular place of entertainment and socialising,so I suppose not much has changed!