The Traditional English Restaurants of London

Once the Seashell was literally the Mecca of fish and chip restaurants, setting standards that were far higher than you normally expected; unfortunately time has slightly stood still for them, and the opposition have been catching up in terms of quality and what they offer.

At the front on Lisson Grove there is a very traditional fish and chip shop counter, altogether quite functional, however, round the back they boast a proper ‘a la carte’ restaurant, with pink as the predominant colour, but quite cosy in style!

The Seashell still enjoys a strong, loyal following and people especially appreciate the service from some very chatty waitresses, even though – to be totally honest - the look of the place is a touch unexciting.

There is nonetheless much praise for its consistent classic dish of fish and chips, though a lot of people find that, since it became a bit of a draw for the tourist market, the character has changed somewhat as a result.

Starters roam from white fish chowder, through to whitebait and calamari, at between two to five pounds, whilst the selection of main varies from the classics – cod, haddock, plaice, salmon – at around seven to nine pounds, accompanied by either fried (chips), mashed or new potatoes, through to the more expensive house specials, like halibut and Dover sole at just under £15.

Their takeaways remain extremely well rated as being good quality and reliable fare.