Every weekend, the West End gets swarmed with tourists hoping for a glimpse of Benedict whatshisface or whatever that guy’s name is. Bonkerdick Cummerbund? Bennetsmith Crumblepants?

Anyway, you’re thankfully unlikely to see many of those tourists at J Sheekey. What you will find is a classic restaurant in the middle of the theatre district—an old-fashioned spot to enjoy a few glasses of wine and eat some high quality shellfish.

For all its elegance, J Sheekey is also unpretentious and relaxed, especially at their bar or outdoor terrace. As you might expect, prices for luxuries like lobster are particularly high and the legendary fish pie is around 20 quid—but that's surprisingly reasonable for a place like this.

As for the crowd, It’s a late-night hangout for theatre and movie folks, which means, actually, tourists probably should come here. Butternut Jazzhands just might turn up.

photo credit: Karolina Wiercigroch

Food Rundown

photo credit: Karolina Wiercigroch

Seared Tiger Prawns

Sheekey’s does excellent, magical things with shellfish—like not messing it up, basically. Whether you go for prawns or oysters (or both, because you’re a champ), this is how you should start a meal here.

photo credit: Karolina Wiercigroch

A Nice Piece Of Fish

Any piece of fish you order will be beautifully cooked with the minimum of fuss, and served with polished tableware. The roast cod below, in particular, is excellent.

photo credit: Karolina Wiercigroch

Fish Pie

Perhaps one of the most legendary items on any menu in London. It’s very rich, very comforting, and goes great with a crisp glass of white wine.

photo credit: Karolina Wiercigroch

Bramley Apple Pie

The puddings are very, very good—don’t miss out. The rhubarb pudding is also excellent if it’s on.