J Sheekey

Historic fish and seafood restaurant first opened in 1896.

For fish and seafood dishes served with simplicity and style J Sheekey is unrivalled in London. Hidden down a narrow Victorian backstreet, an elegantly dressed doorman, complete with top hat, is positioned outside the restaurant?s wine red shop front ready to welcome diners inside. This unimposing politeness and gentility is typical of the excellent service. Encased in warm, dark wood panelling dotted with old black and white photos of the 40s and 50s, diners are invited to nestle into rich red leather banquettes as they examine a menu filled with some of the freshest and tastiest seafood available. The restaurant has a right to emphasize history and tradition. First opened in 1896 by Josef Sheekey - a fish seller at a local market ? the venue began life as an oyster bar and has expanded ever since. Today the freshness and availability of ingredients means an unfussy seasonal selection of dishes on the day, and no sittings, so you can linger over coffee as long as you please. At weekends they do a set lunch for a very reasonable price. Falling under the same umbrella as the Ivy and Le Caprice, J Sheekey is by far the most down-to-earth and welcoming - perfect for those who favour classy cooking over crass celeb-spotting.

Best for:
Colchester oysters and Cornish cock-crab, salmon and seabass, down-to-earth elegance, top hats and top nosh.

Did you know?
When Lord Salisbury, who owned St Martin?s Court, granted permission for Sheekey?s new business he included a clause that required the soon-to-be chef to cater for the Lord?s private post-theatre parties.