With a plum location right next to Liverpool Street station and a menu that features the best of British fish and seafood, Fish Market makes a popular spot for a Christmas party for City workers and East London locals alike. This smartly renovated restaurant is part of the historic Old Bengal Warehouse complex - so called as it used to store textiles and silks imported from Bengal, courtesy of the East India Company, which built it in the 18th century. Inside, Fish Market is largely unrecognisable from its past existence, but the old warehouse retains the same airy, spacious feel and high ceilings.
Inside, the restaurant is a combo of whites and marine blues, with large pillars that extend up to the tall ceilings. The centrepiece is undoubtedly a long marble seafood counter, which is heavy with a range of fantastic British fish and seafood (all of which features on the usual a la carte menu). The restaurant also has a large terrace area outside, which is covered and heated via patio heaters, making it a warm, dry place to enjoy a bit of fresh air in the winter. Exclusive hire of the restaurant is always an option for Christmas parties - that includes use of the terrace, with capacity for 60 guests seated or 150 standing for a drinks party.
As you might guess from the name, Fish Market specialises in great fish and seafood, and sources the best produce from around the British Isles. Christmas set menus are available at different price points for large groups, and feature dishes such as pan-seared Brixham scallops with celeriac puree and bacon crumble, wild halibut with grilled asparagus and garlic butter, and citrus creme brulee with orange shortbread for pudding. There are other options available for those who don't eat fish, ranging from a dry-aged ribeye steak with rocket salad, to vegetarian options like gnocchi with wild mushroom, sundried tomato and hazelnut.