Pearls of Wisdom: Where to Eat Oysters Right Now

Yvette Thomson

September is almost here, and so is oyster season. The UK’s most briny, buttery delicacy is at its prime, and chefs across the country are giving it the star treatment. From molten beef-fat flambadou theatrics to pies that taste like history, here are the spots worth dropping everything for if you’re serious about your shellfish.

Ekstedt at The Yard, Westminster

The Flambadou Oyster

If there’s one oyster that feels like theatre on a plate, it’s Niklas Ekstedt’s flambadou number. Picture this: molten beef fat dripping from a red-hot cone over an oyster, flame-kissed into smoky submission, then crowned with silky beurre blanc. Served as part of Ekstedt at The Yard’s tasting menus (from £59), it’s a dish that lingers in your memory long after the fire dies down.

https://ekstedtattheyard.com/

3-5 Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN

The Guinea Grill, Mayfair

Beef, Guinness and Oyster Pie

Forget oysters as dainty bar snacks. At this old-school Mayfair pub, Head Chef Thiago Brigidi gives them proper British grit. Start with half a dozen Rocks and shallot mignonette (£28), then dive into the signature beef, Guinness and oyster pie (£35). Dark, rich and unapologetically filling, it’s a London classic done right.

https://www.theguinea.co.uk/

30 Bruton Pl, Mayfair, W1J 6NL

Rick Stein Barnes, Barnes

Classic Oyster Platter

Sometimes, you just want the romance of an oyster by the water. At Rick Stein’s riverside outpost, order three or six (£18/£36), choose a glass from Charlie Stein’s thoughtful wine list, and let the Thames views do the rest. It’s the sort of meal that makes you forget you’re still in London.

https://rickstein.com/

Tideway Yard, 125 Mortlake High St, London SW14 8SW

The Oyster Shed, Monument

Beef & Oyster Tartare

This riverside favourite does what it says on the tin: oysters, oysters, and more oysters. But the must-order dish is the beef and oyster tartare (£14.50), where indulgence meets tradition in a neat little mound. Throw in a seafood platter (£99) and the view across the Thames, and you’ve got one of the most decadent evenings in the City.

https://www.oystershed.co.uk/

1 Angel Ln, London EC4R 3AB

Fenchurch, The City

Rock Oysters with a Kick

Sky-high dining, a Caribbean touch, and oysters that don’t play by the rules. Chef Kerth Gumbs’ Rock Oysters (£10 for two) are dressed with cucumber and a punchy Vietnamese vinaigrette. The freshness and firecracker flavours set the pace for the dishes that follow.

https://skygarden.london/restaurants/fenchurch/

Level 37, Sky Garden Walk, 1, London EC3M 8AF

Crown & Anchor, Chichester

Maldon Rock Oysters by the Marina

Few things beat oysters and Champagne with a view of the water. At this Dell Quay gem, order Maldon Rocks (£4 each) with a hit of Tabasco and a chilled glass in hand while you watch boats drift by. A proper coastal escape.

https://www.crownandanchorchichester.com/

Dell Quay Rd, Chichester, PO20 7EE

Final word: Oyster season only lasts until April, but September is when it all begins. Book a table, order the dozen, and don’t skimp on the bubbles.

Enjoyed Pearls of Wisdom: Where to Eat Oysters Right Now? Follow @banglemag on Instagram for the latest updates.