Review on Scott’s
After an absence of more than two years, Scott's of Mayfair, one of London's most enduring and celebrated seafood restaurants is back with a brand new outlook and new owners in the shape of Caprice Holdings. Having done the job for The Ivy, J. Sheekey and the like, they were obvious candidates for revamping this gastronomic veteran.
Take a look inside and you'll find a stunning oak-panelled dining room hung with fascinating artworks; the old basement bar is now a separate private room, and Scott's magnificent green onyx-topped oyster bar boasts a three-metre-long crustacea display counter, bare wood tables and long opening hours. The old magic has returned and – in Fay Maschler's words – 'it's one of the most gratifying restaurant rebirths of the past few years'.
Manning the stoves is Dave McCarthy who previously worked a number of years at J. Sheekey, before moving to Scotts in 2006 as Senior Sous Chef and was promoted to Head Chef in 2009. Oysters from various different waters are a big hit, but there's much more: baby squid and sea purslane come with a double fried egg, lemon sole receives hedgerow accompaniments in the shape of alexanders and wild garlic, while lobster is cooked the Américaine way. Meat and game also receive a good airing, witness rack of Shetland lamb with pan haggerty or roast wild duck with sprout tops, bacon and chestnuts.
Traditional savouries such as Welsh rarebit and herring roes on toast rub shoulders with Russet apple pie with clotted cream, Sussex pond pudding and saffron custard tart – a reminder that regional recipes are taken seriously here. A fine selection of wines adds to the pleasure, with plenty of good stuff available by the glass or carafe.
Scott’s is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Hardens, AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Seafood / British
Chef
Dave McCarthy
Restaurant Opening Times
Lunch: 12.00 through until
Dinner: 10.45pm (10.15pm Sun)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express
