If you're hooked on the succulent flavours of the ocean, you're in for a treat. London's culinary scene boasts a net full of fantastic seafood joints that'll have you hooked from the first bite. From swanky oyster bars to fish dishes, let's dive into the 10 best seafood restaurants in the heart of the UK's capital...
1 Randall & Aubin
Located in Soho's Brewer Street, Randall & Aubin are specialists in French seafood fare and have been operating since 1908. Current Head Chef Ed Baines masterfully brings out the best of his ingredients, often best represented on their rotating daily specials board. Make sure to get your huitres (oysters) in for a taste of the sea!
14-16 Brewer Street, London, W1F 0SG.
2 The Seafood Bar
Also found in Soho, The Seafood Bar does what the name suggests with style and panache. A shellfish-forward establishment (due to it being more sustainable, but also delicious in the right hands), the bar also has four sites in The Netherlands that similarly focus on food that doesn't deplete our oceanic natural resources. Safe to say we like this spot and its emphasis on full transparency!
77 Dean Street Soho, London W1D 3SH.
3 Angler
Situated in the heart of the City of London on the top of South Place Hotel, Michelin-starred Angler is a special place. Executive Chef, Gary Foulkes has an eye for precision, with supreme dishes like Sea Bass Tartare (a starter) to Roast Cornish Turbot (main) championing a rare level of seafood eating. Check out the rooftop terrace for after-dinner drinks!
South Place Hotel, 3 South Pl, London EC2M 2AF.
4 Wright Brothers South Kensington
With three branches, Wright Brothers come close to the top of all best of seafood lists when it comes to our capital city. Spanning 5 establishments and in own words, produce meals that 'hit that seafood sweet spot with all the force of a heavyweight boxer'. If you are an oyster fanatic, the Borough Market branch is a real knockout.
11 Stoney Street, Borough Market, London SE1 9AD.
5 Steak And Lobster Warren Street
If you have a taste for our large-clawed marine crustacean friends then Steak And Lobster Warren Street is for you. Order the charcoal grilled lobster, complete with either paprika fries or spicy lemon salad. Set in a former Aston Martin showroom, the skylight and magnificent columns create a wonderful ambience for some happy eating. However, if you happen to be in Heathrow, check their glorious airport branch.
6-7 Warren Street Radisson Blu Edwardian Grafton Hotel, London W1T 5LB.
6 Manzi’s
Nestled away in Soho, Manzi's is a homage to its much-loved original site at Leicester Square. Depending on your budget to appetite, opt for the Catch of the Day or Lobster Thermidor. After something a bit more out there? The Monkfish Wellington sharing dish has you covered!
1-8 Bateman's Buildings, London W1D 3EN.
7 Lyon’s
Next up is the family-owned and operated Crouch End restaurant Lyon’s. Focusing on sustainable catches (mostly British) that excite the taste buds such as squid bolognese and ponzu tuna tartar this is an exciting place to eat seafood!
1 Park Road, N8 8TE.
8 Scott's Mayfair
Formerly an oyster warehouse some 50 years ago, Scott's Mayfair is owned by Richard Caring's Caprice Holdings group with current head chef David McCarthy. This is an exceptional location for long leisurely fish featuring lunches and you guessed it; fantastic oysters!
20 Mount Street, W1K 2HE.
8 Westerns Laundry
In keeping with the contemporary desire for well-considered small plates, the Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated Westerns Laundry is a champion of regenerative produce. Regularly swapping out dishes (even highly popular ones) in favour of experimentation, the restaurant is a perfect place to cosy up in the charming courtyard with a bottle of delicious natural wine.
34 Drayton Park, Highbury East, London, N51PB.
9 Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill
With a slogan of 'The Grand Dame of Swallow Street' and a history spanning more than 100 years, Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill is superbly run by Michelin star Chef Richard Corrigan. This is a class operation with modern food celebrating the waters of the British Isles.
11-15 Swallow St, London W1B 4DG.
10 Prawn on the Lawn
Originating as a fishmonger and seafood bar Prawn on the Lawn (POTL for regulars) now serves up high-end restaurant-quality food. What to order if you are strolling the streets of Padstow? The whole Padstow brown crab of course!
292 - 294 St Paul's Road London N1 2LH.