Harden's survey result
Summary
“Our favourite seafood place in central London”, chorus the many fans of this appropriately named outfit “in the touristic area of Covent Garden” – “I love this place for the location, the energy and the super-fresh dishes” (“there’s no greater fun than wrestling with a crab” here or the oysters and lobster!). “Attentive staff” and a “lively, unpretentious atmosphere” are part of the appeal, and the “quick service helps if you’re on the way to the theatre”. Any negatives? It “may be a bit cramped”, with an “interior that’s a bit stark for some”.
Summary
“Constantly updated on blackboards, you find a selection of fresh oysters, crab, lobster, other seafood, and fish to choose from” at this “brilliant little place” in Covent Garden, which “despite its location in the central touristic area, doesn’t feel expensive”. “Tables and chairs are a bit basic” though – it’s “pleasant and convivial” enough, but “you do pretty much have to accept being part of the next table’s conversation”.
Summary
“Lovely oysters and fab fresh fish generally” from a “daily changing blackboard of specials” fuel a meal at this successful joint which is “just like eating in a seaside restaurant”. It’s “a bit cramped and uncomfortable” for some tastes, but conversely “feels surprisingly intimate for Covent Garden”.
Summary
“Superb oysters” are the star attraction at this “casual and relaxed” venue just a few steps from bustling Covent Garden – but there’s “plenty of superb fresh seafood to choose from, if oysters aren’t your thing”. Ceviche and crab are highly recommended, while “the staff are absolutely lovely and very accommodating”.
For 33 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at The Oystermen Seafood Kitchen & Bar?
32 Henrietta St, London, WC2E 8NA
Restaurant details
The Oystermen Seafood Kitchen & Bar Restaurant Diner Reviews
"Nice place to sit outside "
"Another enjoyable visit here. Started off with clams which were delicious if a little chewy. My hake was excellent as expected and so was the mackerel. Enjoyed the Panna Cotta and coffee too. On our way to the theatre so the quick service was perfect and the smiles all round were very welcome."
"Outstanding fish restaurant"
"Glorious food, carefully adapted for our dietary needs. And a fabulous selection of wines to complement the food. "
Prices
 Drinks |
|
|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £30.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £4.00 |
 Extras |
|
|---|---|
| Bread | £0.00 |
| Service | 12.50% |
32 Henrietta St, London, WC2E 8NA
Opening hours
| Monday | 5 pm‑10 pm |
| Tuesday | 12 pm‑3 pm, 5 pm‑10 pm |
| Wednesday | 12 pm‑3 pm, 5 pm‑10 pm |
| Thursday | 12 pm‑3 pm, 5 pm‑10 pm |
| Friday | 12 pm‑3 pm, 5 pm‑10 pm |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑3 pm, 5 pm‑10 pm |
| Sunday | 12 pm‑3 pm, 5 pm‑9 pm |
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