J Sheekey

J Sheekey, London: Worth Booking?

Over 125 years of continuous service in Covent Garden makes J Sheekey one of the longest-running seafood addresses in London — and that track record matters when you're deciding where to spend real money on fish.

If you've been once, you already know the room works. The question on a return visit is how to use it better. The oyster bar is the sharper call for a second trip: it's easier to get into than the main dining room, better suited to a solo visit or a pair, and the by-the-glass wine program at the bar competes seriously with dedicated wine bars nearby. For central London, where most restaurants pour a short, safe list by the glass, Sheekey's seafood-anchored wine selection — leaning toward whites, Champagne, and lighter reds that actually suit the food , is worth treating as a feature rather than an afterthought. If you normally book a wine bar before dinner, consider starting at the oyster bar instead and making a full evening of it.

The main dining room suits groups of three or more and longer occasions: a post-theatre dinner, a birthday, a business lunch that needs a room with some weight to it. The theatre district location means pre- and post-show bookings fill fast, especially Thursday through Saturday. If you're planning around a show at the Coliseum or any of the St Martin's Lane venues, book the dining room at least two weeks ahead. The oyster bar is more forgiving on short notice.

For context on the broader London drinks and dining scene, see our full London restaurants guide, our full London bars guide, and our full London hotels guide. If you're exploring beyond London, Bramble in Edinburgh and Bar Kismet in Halifax are worth the detour. For something further afield, Bar Leather Apron in Honolulu is the Pacific equivalent for a serious bar program. London-side, 69 Colebrooke Row, Amaro, Academy, and A Bar with Shapes For a Name round out a strong week of bar visits. See also our full London wineries guide and our full London experiences guide for more planning context.

Reservations: Book online or by phone; dining room fills 2+ weeks ahead Thu–Sat; oyster bar is walk-in friendly mid-week. Dress: Smart casual minimum; the room rewards dressing up slightly. Location: 28–32 St Martin's Court, WC2N 4AL , a short walk from Leicester Square tube.