J Sheekey

"We would never usually point anyone in the direction of the West End on a weekday at 7pm, but as soon as you step into J Sheekey on St Martin’s Court, the hive of tourists buzzing around outside becomes a distant memory. This seafood restaurant feels a bit like a time capsule, transporting you to a glamorous, understated place where crisp white tablecloths are the height of fanciness, people wear ties to dinner, and you might spot the occasional famous face. There are rich walnut walls and deep green sofas, and although there are multiple rooms, it’s a narrow-feeling spot, so once you’re sitting in one of the corner seats, you’re locked in for the evening. The service is pristine, with staff accommodating theatre-goers with a speedy bill, while offering refills of the free bread to people who are settling in. And pretty much everything on the menu is a safe bet. Whether that’s thick, buttery scallops, or fried haddock and chips, J Sheekey knows what it’s doing. It’s proper without feeling too fancy, and the food is good enough that we’d fight those West End crowds for a table here. photo credit: Karolina Wiercigroch Food Rundown photo credit: Rianne Shlebak Spicy Tuna & Avocado Tartare This tuna tartare has a nice spicy kick to it, and the layer of avocado gives it a lovely, creamy texture. photo credit: Rianne Shlebak Lobster & Gruyère Croquettes Gruyère and lobster meat go well together, despite some saying you should never mix seafood and cheese. But would we rush to re-order these croquettes? There’s nothing too memorable going on, so probably not. photo credit: Karolina Wiercigroch J.Sheekey's Fish Pie The oozing, brown breadcrumb and parmesan crust is one of the most comforting things we’ve eaten since discovering you can successfully dip Bahlsen Choco Leibniz in cups of tea. But the smoked fish is what makes it. That and the creamy mashed potato lid that makes every bite moreish and satisfying. photo credit: Rianne Shlebak Fried Fillet Of Haddock This big piece of haddock is golden and crispy, the bed of mushy peas underneath adds some lightness to it, and the thick fluffy chips are objectively perfect. Oh, and it’s important to incorporate the tangy tartar sauce in every bite. Goan Monkfish & Tiger Prawn Curry A rich, tomato curry filled with soft chunks of monkfish and meaty prawns, this is one of our favourite things to order." - Rianne Shlebak

"J Sheekey is one of London’s most classic West End restaurants with everything you’d want from a classic West End restaurant. Mirrored lamps you can check out your own banging outfit in? Check. Classy old-fashioned interiors that make you feel like Jordan Belfort might pop in from the outdoor terrace at any moment? Yes. Lots of lobster on the menu? Absolutely. If you’re looking to get dressed up without spending a small crustacean-fuelled fortune, then just order their excellent fish pie and a glass of wine. You’ll still have a great time." - heidi lauth beasley, jake missing, sinead cranna, rianne shlebak

"Despite your genius plan that involves crisp eating via jacket pocket throughout loud musical numbers, chances are you’re still going to leave the theatre hungry. Plan ahead and go for a big lunch at seafood spot J Sheekey. You can get their classic fish pie with a glass of wine, or opt for the £33 two-course set menu that runs until 4:45pm. Because eating at a white-clothed table is a lot better than eating from your grubby pocket." - jake missing, rianne shlebak, sinead cranna

"J Sheekey is known for being a late-night hangout for movie and theatre types, which makes sense since it’s in the middle of the West End. It’s also known for being one of the classiest places to get a seafood dinner. We like to come to sip champagne and eat oysters, while pretending that we’ve just sold a script to a big film studio (the 20th Fast & Furious film, but still). Prices for things like lobster are predictably high, and their legendary fish pie will cost you just over 20 quid. But it’s perfect for impressing out-of-towners or for a special meal." - sinead cranna, jake missing, rianne shlebak, daisy meager

"Temporarily closed J Sheekey’s street-side patio is, even though you’re in a touristy part of London, relatively sheltered from the crowds. It’s also sheltered from the sky, which is helpful if it’s piddling down and you’ve just splurged on a fancy seafood tower. But even if you’re not looking to flash the cash, it’s great for a few oysters and a glass of champagne before heading elsewhere." - heidi lauth beasley, jake missing, rianne shlebak