Dining
The 5 Best Seafood Restaurants in London
Oysters, whole fish and the day's catch: where to eat the best seafood in London.
In short: our top picks are Scott's, J Sheekey and Bentley's. 5 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.
For a landlocked city, London does seafood beautifully, from old oyster bars to modern rooms cooking the day’s catch over fire. The best let the produce speak. These are the places worth booking when you want oysters, whole fish and a cold glass of something.
| Place | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Scott's | Mayfair | ££££ |
| J Sheekey | Covent Garden | ££££ |
| Bentley's | Mayfair | ££££ |
| Sweetings | The City | £££ |
| Wright Brothers | Borough | £££ |
-
Editor’s choice
Scott's
Why we pick itThe glamorous Mount Street institution; oysters, crab and impeccable people-watching.
-
J Sheekey
Why we pick itA theatreland classic; the fish pie and the oysters in panelled, clubby rooms.
-
Bentley's
Why we pick itA century-old oyster bar and grill; sit at the marble counter for the full effect.
-
Sweetings
Why we pick itA Victorian lunch-only institution; potted shrimp, fish and a glass of black velvet.
-
Wright Brothers
Why we pick itOysters and the day's catch at a buzzy counter; the reliable seafood all-rounder.
Before you book
Ask what came in that day and order it; the best seafood places change with the catch. Whole fish is sold by weight at the top rooms and worth it for two. And sit at the counter or the bar for oysters and a glass of chablis, the classic for a reason.
Common questions
What are the top picks in this guide?
Scott's is our editor's choice: The glamorous Mount Street institution; oysters, crab and impeccable people-watching. Scott's, J Sheekey and Bentley's lead the guide, with 5 places in total, all chosen on merit.
How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?
Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.
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