Seafood restaurants in Soho for every appetite
Soho’s seafood scene rewards a wander. Around Dean Street, Wardour Street, and Covent Garden, you’ll find shellfish counters, polished brasseries, and old-school fish and chips, each with its own pace and plate. Some places lean into oysters and raw bar classics, while others pair grilled fish with cocktails or keep things simple with crisp batter and hand-cut chips. A few sit close to the West End, so they work well before a show, while others suit a slower lunch or an easy dinner near Leicester Square. If you like your seafood fresh, varied, and rooted in central London, these addresses give you a useful starting point.
Sexy Fish Mayfair
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What to expect
A visually striking interior with bold décor and busy energy. The menu centres on seafood, with sushi and shareable plates alongside a focused cocktail list. Service is professional and pacey. Dress tends toward smart casual or dressy.
Plan your visit
Book ahead for evening tables, especially at weekends. If you want a full dining experience, request a table in the main room. For a quicker visit or a focus on drinks, ask for bar seating. Mention dietary needs when you reserve.
The Oystermen Seafood Bar & Kitchen
Image / THE OYSTERMEN
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What to expect
An oyster-led menu with a mix of raw selections and warm dishes such as grilled fish and shellfish. Plates are designed for sharing, so expect tasting portions and straightforward presentation. Service is friendly and efficient, and the wine list highlights crisp whites and sparkling options that pair well with seafood.
Plan your visit
Make a reservation if you are in a group, otherwise a short wait is possible at peak times. Order a selection of raw and warm dishes to sample different textures, and ask staff for wine or sparkling suggestions to match oysters. Mention allergies or dietary needs when you order.
Olea Social
Image / Olea Social Covent Garden
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What to expect
A welcoming, design-led interior with green-tiled bar accents, marble surfaces and leafy touches, creating a lively yet polished mood. Expect personable, attentive staff who tailor the experience for groups and celebrations, plus a menu crafted for sharing and variety. Kid-friendly and plant-based options are available, making it easy to cater for different tastes. The atmosphere balances buzz with comfort, ideal for social dinners and special occasions.
Plan your visit
Book ahead for larger parties or celebratory gatherings, as the team is experienced at accommodating decorations and special requests. Perfect for pre-theatre evenings or leisurely meals with friends and family, with vegan, vegetarian and children's choices to suit diverse groups. Mention any accessibility needs or special arrangements when booking to ensure a smooth visit.
Poppies Fish & Chips
Image / Poppies Fish and Chips
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What to expect
A short menu focused on fish, chips and a few classic sides. Food is cooked to order and served at a counter or to takeaway. The interior has vintage decor and a buzzy, informal mood. Service is brisk rather than formal, so this is a place for quick, satisfying meals rather than long, quiet dinners.
Plan your visit
Go prepared to queue at busy times and decide whether you want to eat in or take away. Order at the counter, then grab a seat if one is free. Try a classic pairing like battered fish with mushy peas and tartare sauce, and consider sharing a portion of chips if you are with someone. Bring a reusable bag if you plan to take food away.
The Seafood Bar
Image / The Seafood Bar
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What to expect
A menu focused on seafood with large portions meant for sharing or a hearty solo plate. Service is welcoming and attentive. The room has a lively, casual atmosphere that works for special occasions and social meals. The drink list is curated and tends to sit at a higher price point than the food.
Plan your visit
Book ahead, especially for evenings and weekends. Come ready to share , ordering a mix of small dishes and a larger platter gives the best variety. If you care about the wine bill, check the drinks list before you sit down or ask staff for recommendations that balance value and flavour.
Hobson's Fish & Chips Charing Cross
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What to expect
Counter service and a small seating area. Food is cooked to order, with hot, crisp batter and hand-cut style chips. Staff work fast, so orders come through quickly. Expect a straightforward menu focused on quality fish and chips rather than fancy dishes.
Plan your visit
Go with a flexible plan: order at the counter, then choose to eat in or take away. If you want a table, aim for a quieter time to avoid queues. Ask the team about portion sizes before you order, so you can share or add a side. Bring a napkin and a paper bag for easy eating on the go.
Randall & Aubin
Image / Randall & Aubin, London
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What to expect
A small dining room with high stools and counter-style seating, so you will be close to other diners. The menu highlights oysters, prawn cocktail, scallops, skate and a highly recommended fish and chips, plus a signature sorbet dessert. Staff are friendly and helpful and will guide wine choices and small-plate options.
Plan your visit
Book in advance if you can, especially on theatre nights. If you prefer a quieter spot, ask about seating when you arrive or request a corner space when booking. Share a few starters to try more dishes and ask staff for wine recommendations by the glass.