The best oysters in London: Where to enjoy chilled seafood this summer
Few things can beat a plate of chilled oysters on a warm summer’s day. We pick out some of our favourite spots to enjoy them.
WRIGHT BROTHERS, SPITALFIELDS
A short stroll from Liverpool Street is the most recent outpost of renowned seafood chain Wright Brothers. It features the most advanced oyster tanks in the country, allowing them to serve a vast array of fresh oysters; there are usually upwards of 10 different kinds on offer on any given day.
6 oysters from £15.50
HIX OYSTER & CHOP HOUSE, SMITHFIELD MARKET
Another excellent Oyster vendor within walking distance of the City is Hix Oyster & Chop house. Originally a sausage factory, it now features an impressive marble bar where you can chug a selection British oysters while you quaff a glass of champagne.
6 oysters from £16.50
J SHEEKEY OYSTER BAR, COVENT GARDEN
This traditional-style oyster bar with black and white tiles and a grand central bar has quickly become a West End staple. It serves oysters of the rock variety throughout the year and native ones from September to April. The perfect place for a nice pre-theatre aphrodisiac.
6 oysters from £16.25
BENTLEY'S
This art deco palace to the oyster is one of our favourite places to eat shellfish. As well as some very fine oysters, the seafood platters are also outstanding, with dishes heaving with crab, lobster, cockles, whelks and clams.
6 oysters from £13
SCOTT'S
Mayfair’s premier oyster bar has a decent selection of shelled delights served in the kind of wood-panelled opulence you would expect from Mount Street. Expect to rub shoulders will the great and good; who knows, you might even pull an oligarch.
6 oysters from £15.75
RANDALL & AUBIN, SOHO
Brewer Street’s Randall & Aubin maintains some of the distinctive elements from its former life as a butcher’s shop, including the shiny white tiles. Ask for a window seat and enjoy your seafood from one of the city’s best people-watching vantage points.
6 oysters from £14