Where to eat seafood boil in London

Straight from the US, The Boiling Crab brings its epic seafood boils to London, and they don't hold back. Piles of shrimp, lobster, crab, and more arrive directly on your table, drenched in sauces ranging from buttery garlic to fiery Cajun. Order by weight, pick your spice level and get stuck in (bib very much advised).

The Fat Crab proudly claims the title of the UK's first seafood boil restaurant, mixing Sri Lankan and Louisiana spice in steaming bags of shellfish. Choose your favourites from a list of crab, lobster, mussels, prawns or all of the above, then pick your sauce and heat. The “Whole Shabang” is the star if you want to go all out.

Over in Walthamstow and Dulwich, Hot N Juicy Shrimp has built a cult following with takeaway-only Cajun seafood boils. Expect saucy bags of shrimp, crab legs, mussels and corn, with the option to tailor your spice and seasoning. It's all inspired by the southern US, but there's also a vegan boil for non-seafood eaters.

Plaquemine Lock looks like your average Regent's Canal pub, until the New Orleans vibes hit you. Inside, it's all murals, live jazz, and plates of Louisiana fae. Seafood fans can tuck into gumbos, po' boys, crawfish étouffée, and regular seafood boils alongside fried oysters and Cajun cracklings. The atmosphere is buzzy but laid-back, and with its canal-side location, it's a brilliant spot to soak up a little southern soul in the heart of London.

Shrimp Shack in Streatham is a casual spot with a South African twist on the seafood boil concept. Build your own shrimp platter by choosing your size, seasoning and dips, or go for loaded options piled high with extras. The vibe is fun and family-friendly, with colourful interiors that match the menu. While shrimp is the star, you'll also find wings, burgers and other seafood plates.

Trap Kitchen started in Balham and quickly made a name for itself with its big seafood feasts. Think lobster tails, king crab legs, and catfish, all seasoned with Caribbean flavours and served alongside waffles, mac and cheese, or Spanish rice. The look is moody and modern, with neon signs, dark walls, and vibey lighting, making it a fab little hangout spot as much as a restaurant.

Deptford's Suya & Lobster puts a West African spin on the seafood boil, serving up generous platters of lobster, crab and prawns alongside spiced meats. It's as much about the vibe as the food: neon signs, flower walls, cocktails and mocktails make it an Insta-perfect spot. Warm service and family-friendly options (even kids' meals) mean this isn't just dinner, it's an experience.