Britain’s Best Seafood Restaurants
The Seafood Resturant of the Year is organised jointly by Seafish and The Caterer. As well as the quality of cooking and service, the judges look for knowledge about fish and shellfish, sustainable sourcing policies and restaurants that successfully encourage diners to eat more seafood. Here’s the shortlist of five:
The Staith House, North Shields
Situated right on the Fish Quay at North Shields, this recently renovated gastropub can boast a hatful of awards. Menus change daily, sometimes hourly, based entirely around what’s fresh and available, with game featuring too. With 48 hours’ notice you can now also try their Fish & Shellfish Carte Blanche Tasting Menu, nine courses for £70.
The Idle Rocks, St Mawes
The Idle Rocks hotel boasts one of the most spectacular settings in Cornwall, on the edge of the harbour in the quaint fishing village of St Mawes. Comfortable accommodation is available with most rooms offering sea views and the talented and dedicated team of chefs here make the most of the abundance of Cornish seafood. Dine on the terrace when the sun is shining.
Rocksalt, Folkestone
Run by Mark Sargeant, one of Gordon Ramsay’s successful proteges, Rocksalt sits cantilevered over Folkestone harbour with floor-to-ceiling windows to make the most of the view. Eat in the restaurant or the bar - each with its own terrace – from seasonally changing menus. Fish is sourced from local day boats. Try the Rocksalt shellfish platter, £80 for two.
Ninth Wave, Isle Of Mull
Escape to the islands and dine in a lovingly restored 200-year-old crofter’s bothy on the Isle of Mull. You won’t get fresher than this – hand-dived scallops come from the next-door neighbour and there’s a daily catch of crab and lobster from the pristine local waters. Signature dishes include the Lobster in nettle ravioli and the Warm smoked crab cheesecake.
The Salt Room, Brighton
Opposite the West Pier in Brighton, The Salt Room is a modern British seafood and grill restaurant on the ground floor of the Hilton Metropole. Sussex-sourced fish and seafood is served fresh or grilled over charcoal and the extensive choice is a real pescatarian’s delight. Choose from the a la carte, daily specials or good-value lunch and pre-theatre menus. In summer, enjoy the shaded terrace.
Try The Seahorse, Llandudno.