Founded in 1894, this well-established fish and seafood restaurant is discreetly tucked away on St Martin’s Court between Charring Cross Road and St Martin’s Lane In the heart of London’s West End theatre district.
J. Sheekey Oyster Bar London offers an extensive selection of dishes created using the finest fish, oysters, shellfish and other fruits de mer.
The tranquil and calm oasis inside is a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of thriving central London outside.With marble, mosaic and lacquered wood panels hung with photos and portraits of theatre luminaries, the historic nature of the décor takes presentence where you are invited to enjoy its heritage and tradition.
In 2008, the restaurant added a more informal U-shaped oyster bar next door with comfortable stools and softly lit pearl dome lamps enjoying a similar ambience of relaxed calm. Here, the finest West Mersea oysters, Maldons and Fines de Claire are enjoyed by many. Dishes aren’t cheap but the variety, freshness and presentation are exquisite.
There are many other seafood specialities such as Dublin Bay prawns, razor clams, scallops, crab, tiger prawns and shrimps to be savoured or put together as a magnificent platter of fruits de mer. The menu also takes in prime fish such as Dover and lemon sole, brill and salmon, with seasonal special dishes such as Esk sea trout with lovage and girolles, roast lobster with sweetbreads and salt baked bass. Every component of the menu offers classic seafood teamed with well thought out accompaniments. Razor clams are adorned with chorizo and Padron peppers, Dorset crab lays on top of crushed avocado on toast, and the sumptuous tandoori tiger prawns are served with a fresh cucumber yoghurt. Old favourites include lobster thermidor and skate with nut brown butter and capers alongside pollack, haddock, bream and cod, not to mention the famous and critically acclaimed fish pie.
Situated slap bang in the middle of theatreland, you will be mingling with celebs, thespians and theatregoers all enjoying simple yet spectacular seafood. Admittedly, the tables are somewhat squished together but everything else makes up for it. The professional service, the welcoming ambience, and the exquisite, expertly prepared seafood makes your pre- or post-show dinner something to sing about.
| 28-32 St Martin’s Court, London, WC2N 4AL | Transport Leicester Square tube |
| Telephone: +44 020 7240 2565 | Opening Hours Lunch served 12:00-15:00 Mon-Sat, 12:00-15:30 Sun Dinner served 17:30-00:00 Mon-Sat; 18:00-23:00 Sun. The Oyster Bar is open 12:00-00:00 Mon-Sat, 12:00-23:00 Sun |
| Price per head: Main courses £13.50-£39.50. Set lunch (Sat, Sun) £26.50 3 courses. | Website |
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