King's Cross, Fish & Seafood Restaurant Guide

“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…”

Occupying a huge, new unit in Mare Street Market – part of the northward creep of the King’s Cross regeneration zone – this modern take on ‘surf ’n’ turf’ opened in July 2025, complete with lots of chandeliers (and a rather dubious carpet). The menu is overseen by two starry chefs: Tom Brown of Pearly Queen and the Capital Hotel looks after the fish and seafood, which Brad Carter of the late, lamented Carter’s of Moseley in Birmingham is in charge of the steakhouse portion of the menu.