A Voyage to The Seafood Bar in Soho, London:
A Three-Course Feast of Ocean Delights
The Seafood Bar on the iconic Dean Street, Soho, London
Nestled in the heart of Soho, London’s lively epicentre of culture and cuisine, The Seafood Bar offers an oceanic escape where the freshest catch of the day takes centre stage. A true gem in this bustling district, the restaurant is a haven for seafood enthusiasts looking to indulge in high-quality fare with an elegant, laid-back atmosphere. From the bright, airy dining space to the open kitchen, where chefs expertly prepare mouthwatering dishes, The Seafood Bar invites you on a culinary journey across the seas.
For a night of indulgence, we opted for a three-course dinner that highlighted some of the best offerings on the menu. From Galician octopus to a mixed grill of crustaceans, and a dessert that blended tropical and creamy flavours, the meal was a memorable dining experience from start to finish.
The Appetiser: Galician Octopus - A Taste of Spain’s Atlantic Coast
The meal began with Octopus from Galicia, a delicacy from the rugged shores of Galicia, Spain, where the Atlantic meets the Iberian Peninsula. Known for its tender texture and rich flavour, this dish is a staple in the region, and it was clear that The Seafood Bar was paying homage to its roots.
The octopus arrived beautifully plated, sliced into delicate rounds, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, and lightly dusted with smoked paprika. The dish was served atop a bed of buttery potatoes, a traditional accompaniment that enhanced the octopus’ briny sweetness. A sprig of fresh parsley added a touch of colour and vibrance.
As I took the first bite, the octopus was tender and perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of char to give it a smoky depth. The simple preparation allowed the quality of the seafood to shine, with the olive oil and paprika adding a subtle richness without overpowering the natural flavours. The potatoes were creamy and soft, soaking up the olive oil and balancing the slightly salty, umami notes of the octopus. This dish was a flawless introduction to the meal, embodying the essence of the sea while capturing the warmth of Galician cuisine.
The Main Course: Mixed Grill of Crustaceans – A Decadent Ocean Feast
The main event was the Mixed Grill Crustaceans, an eye-popping platter that showcased the bounty of the ocean. A feast for both the eyes and the palate, this dish included an indulgent assortment of lobster, king prawns, langoustines, and crab, all grilled to perfection. Arranged artfully on the plate, the crustaceans glistened under a light lemon butter glaze, their bright hues of coral and pink contrasting beautifully with the rustic wooden serving board.
The lobster, the star of the platter, was succulent and sweet, its meat tender and delicately flavoured. The king prawns, grilled to a golden finish, had a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the langoustines offered a soft, buttery texture that melted in the mouth. The crab claws, expertly cracked open, were a joy to savour, with the rich, creamy meat offering a deeper, more complex flavor compared to the other crustaceans.
Each element of the dish was accompanied by a simple side of garlic butter and a fresh herb salad, allowing the freshness of the seafood to take centre stage. The lemon butter glaze added a bright zing to the natural sweetness of the crustaceans, while the garlic butter provided a comforting, indulgent dip that paired particularly well with the king prawns. This was a dish designed for those who truly appreciate the pure, unadulterated flavours of the sea.
The mixed grill also came with a side of chips, seasoned with sea salt and served with a tangy aioli, adding a satisfying crunch and an element of comfort to the meal. The chips were the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the seafood, ensuring that no flavour was left unexplored.
The Dessert: Passionfruit Cheesecake – A Tropical Finale
After the savoury decadence of the main course, it was time for something sweet, and The Seafood Bar delivered a dessert that was as refreshing as it was indulgent. The Passionfruit Cheesecake was a tropical twist on a classic favourite, combining the tangy brightness of passionfruit with the creamy richness of cheesecake.
The dessert arrived as a perfectly set round, topped with a layer of vibrant passionfruit glaze, its bright orange colour gleaming like a sunset over the ocean. The base was a buttery biscuit crust, adding a crunchy texture to the silky smoothness of the cheesecake. A fresh blueberry on top provided a burst of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavour profile.
The cheesecake itself was luscious and creamy, with a lightness that balanced out the intense sweetness of the passionfruit. The tropical fruit’s tang cut through the richness, creating a harmonious balance between sweet and sour. Each spoonful was a refreshing palate cleanser after the indulgent seafood main, making it the perfect ending to an extraordinary meal.
The Atmosphere: Elegant Yet Relaxed
What truly sets The Seafood Bar apart is its relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The dining room, filled with natural light from the large windows, is chic without feeling pretentious. The décor is a mix of sophisticated, fresh and modern minimalism, with whitewashed walls, wooden accents, and light wood flooring, evoking the sea without being over the top. There’s an effortless elegance to the space that makes it easy to relax and enjoy the dining experience, whether you’re having a quiet dinner for two or celebrating with a group of friends.
The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, providing recommendations with genuine enthusiasm and a clear passion for the menu. Each course was timed perfectly, allowing for just enough time between dishes to savour the flavours without feeling rushed. The service struck that perfect balance between friendly and professional, making the dining experience feel personal and special.
The Seafood Bar in Soho is more than just a restaurant—it’s a journey through the ocean’s finest offerings. From the Galician octopus to the mixed grill of crustaceans and the passionfruit cheesecake, each course was a celebration of the sea, crafted with skill, care, and a respect for the natural flavors of the ingredients.
For seafood lovers, this three-course dinner is a must-try, offering a true taste of the ocean’s bounty, prepared with precision and flair. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a decadent evening out or simply savor some of the freshest seafood in London, The Seafood Bar is a dining destination that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. So, the next time you find yourself in Soho, take a detour into this maritime haven and let the flavours of the sea sweep you away.
Ben Maguire
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