J. Sheekey
IT’S SAFE TO ASSUME that the reviews of J Sheekey have, over its 125-year history, consistently trumped those of any of the productions in the adjacent theatres. Tucked away down a narrow court, its pillar-box red frontage belies its discreet location. Recently augmented by an enclosed terrace that’s airy in summer and cosy in winter, it’s welcomed generations of diners who’ve flocked to it from across the capital and around the world. Relaxed but sophisticated, Sheekey’s interiors – a succession of interconnected spaces lined with wood panelling, leather banquettes and framed photographs of the darlings of the British stage – culminate in the bustling Atlantic Bar adorned with mosaics of pulchritudinous mermaids.
No prizes for guessing that the thing here is fish, fresh daily and cooked to perfection. Besides the classics – lobster thermidor, grilled Dover sole, assorted caviars – J Sheekey mixes up its menu with the likes of monkfish and tiger prawn tikka masala, and shrimp and soft-shell crab burgers. Brimming over with langoustines, oysters, mussels, clams and whelks, the shellfish platters of varying sizes and price-points are ideal for those who like to share. For those who don’t, there’s J Sheekey’s signature fish pie. Throw in a couple of martinis or a bottle of champagne from the extensive list and you might just find that your pre- or post-theatre supper outperforms the show you have tickets for.
