FishWorks

2-4 Catherine Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 5JY

My first thought when I saw the name FishWorks was that it was a slogan dreamt up by a clever adman rather than a name for a chain of restaurants, but when I got up to speed with the restaurant’s concept I was struck just how pertinent the actual name is! Fish is a healthy and very nutritious source of food and unfortunately is not always people’s first choice (unless it is covered in batter and deep fried), but it really should be. But I digress, so returning back to the concept, I think FishWorks are trying to reverse the, I guess fear, of fish, by providing ultra fresh produce and cooking it in an exciting and innovative way. Indeed, one very novel way they are promoting it is not just to eat fish in their restaurants as you can actually buy fresh fish in the restaurant to cook at home, so a real twist on taking home a doggy bag!

On entering this restaurant, which has a lovely spacious and airy feel to it due to the natural light from the expansive windows that surround the main dining area, you can’t fail to notice FishWorks’ in-house fish counter that boasts the freshest display of the morning’s catch, from South Coast wet fish through to crustacea and shellfish. There is also a fishmonger here who can answer any questions you may have on the fish on offer, or can offer recommendations depending on your taste. Luckily for us, we have had a very efficient and charming waiter, who suggested we start our meal with three different oysters, which, although not my usual choice, we did, and I have to say I actually really enjoyed them and felt very proud of myself for going outisde my usual eating comfort zone!

The Meal ...

There is a dedicated Oyster Bar that runs along the main dining area and is fully fitted with built-in ice trays and piled high with freshly shucked oysters.

For my starter I chose Hand-Dived King Scallops (£13) that were sauteed and cooked with white wine and garlic butter, topped with breadcrumbs and Pernod, delicious, whilst my friend chose Steamed Mussels (£9 as a starter or £16 as a main) which were cooked in an almond, white wine, garlic, chilli and saffron sauce.

Desserts are also a treat at FishWorks and I can highly recommend their zesty homemade Lemon Tart served with raspberry sorbet and the Peach and Passion Fruit Eton Mess.

From lunch through to dinner, the a la carte menu will satisfy any pescatarian passion. Lavish lobster dishes, cracking crab and towering fruits de mer platters sit alongside a variety of classic and contemporary fish dishes including a divine day boat Dover Sole, simply cooked with the respect it deserves, a classic Fish and Chips given a luxe touch with monkfish (my choice), and the daily catch from the counter, served whole or filleted at the table.

In Conclusion

FishWorks list of small-batch wines and champagnes has been curated by sommelier Tim McLaughlin-Green. The wine list also features a selection of ‘maritime’ wines, produced within 10 miles of the coast, and exhibiting a slight salty note that perfectly pairs with seafood. For something a little stronger, the ‘spritz collection’ features premium spirits and award-winning premium mixers – try the Dark and Stormy Twist, a blend of Havana Club Dark Rum and No 4 Chocolate Tonic. A wide selection of beers and spirits is also available.

The decor of the restaurant I found to be very calming, with its colour palette of soft blues, greys and white is nautically inspired. Traditional white tiling with ad hoc fish motifs is paired with two stand-out feature walls designed with copper ‘fish-scales’ to bring warmth and contrast to the space.

On Sundays it’s all about free-flowing prosecco, where you can enjoy three courses with bottomless prosecco or wine for £38.50 per person.

However, FishWorks also offer two courses for £16.50 and three for £20.50, and that’s not all – pre-theatre guests are invited to return after the show for a digestif, receiving £10 off their bar bill, so what’s not to love?!

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FishWorks

The Meal ...

In Conclusion