Southwark, Fish & Seafood Restaurant Guide

“Sit at the counter in crowded seafood heaven” for “fabulous oysters” (both raw and cooked) and “always the freshest fish”, say fans of the “buzzy” original branch at Borough Market, which elicits the bulk of the large volumes of enthusiastic feedback in our annual diners’ poll (the Battersea outlet seems “soulless” by comparison). Service can be “somewhat chaotic”, but is “friendly”, and although the interior is not in its first flush of youth the overall vibe is upbeat.

“Fish cooked to perfection and some of the best chunky chips ever” (alongside brimming hot and cold seafood platters) have won a large and loyal fan club over the years for this “friendly” family-run stalwart, which has long been a “buzzy” (if “slightly cramped and noisy”) linchpin of the Borough Market area (having originally traded as a fishmonger). In February 2025, they celebrated 25 years with a redesign (with an extended seating area overlooking a bespoke live-fire grill) and relaunch under ex-Atherton group chef Frankie van Loo, with a Himalayan pink salt chamber for dry-aging fish; and a new menu incorporating British-style Bouillabaisse and Sunday fish roasts (Salmon en croute or a whole Turbot).

This glass-fronted fish and seafood specialist was the first restaurant to open in Borough Market 27 years ago, and remains a “solid if unexciting option” for its straightforward treatment of fresh ingredients. There’s a view that it “should be better” which may result from the high expectations of visitors to London’s foodie hub, but most reporters are well satisfied with their meal.

Swish rooftop Iberian seafood specialist on the 14th floor of a modern Southwark hotel. It remains solidly rated for its luxe seafood – including nine varieties of oyster, alongside lobster and caviar – with scores that stack up respectably against fashionable restaurants with a view. Pick carefully, and you could make an affordable meal here, but the more luxurious options are very punchily priced.

“Forget hopping on a budget flight to the famous Cal Pep in Barcelona…” – the original inspiration for the Hart Bros’ genius small group of tapas pitstops – “… here in London you can sit at the counter, with the fun of watching mouthwatering tapas being prepared in front of you, so delivered piping hot (and best is the unbeatable fresh fish cooked ‘a la plancha’)”. “From the greeting to the explanations of the dishes, service is knowledgeable and caring”; there’s “a good choice of Spanish wines and sherries”; and the “superb” overall formula has made them one of the most popular destinations in our annual diners’ poll for almost 20 years now, even if the feeling has grown that “merely a small selection of dishes can incur eyewatering bills”. Top Tips – “the best atmosphere is had eating perched on a stool at the counter, but the Adelaide Street branch does have comfortable table seating downstairs”. On the Menu – “specific praise for the mojama”; “especially lovely prawn stuffed tortilla, seabream and the crisp aubergine with honey”; “tasty rabbit paella”; “squid croquetas are a perfect combo – crunchy on the outside, unctuous within”. “Shout out for the basics: lovely oils, bread etc…”