Found in the heart of Fitzrovia on Great Portland Street, Raw is a seafood restaurant, fishmongers and cocktail bar that serves a menu of sparklingly fresh fish, replete with international influences.
Raw Fitzrovia is a sibling to the original site in Brick Lane, and this central London branch is a bit of a smarter space than its East London counterpart, reflecting its well-heeled Fitzrovia surrounds. The dining room is a calming space inspired by maritime adventure, but without a cliche in sight - in place of pirate hats and fish netting, you will instead find glossy black tables, light blue walls and wicker shades hanging from the ceiling. Along one wall towards the back of the room, a selection of nautically inspired artwork is displayed, which gives the place a real sense of character.
Fans of the Brick Lane site will be glad to know that the menu hasn’t changed for the Fitzrovia location, so you will still be able to find all of your favourites. The a la carte is split between sections such as ‘buns and tempura’ and ‘from the sea’, with guests able to follow the traditional three-course format or instead order a selection of dishes to share between their table. Highlights from the menu include the classic likes of grilled wild brill with nduja butter and dry tomatoes, or grilled octopus served alongside borlotti beans, chorizo and ink crumble. For those looking for something a little more exotic, instead opt for a cured salmon bun topped with scapece courgettes, shaved fennel, fiordilatte and spicy mayonnaise or seared yellowfin tuna with lemon, soy and Nasturtium dressing.
To help wash everything down, order your choice of cocktail from Raw’s list of in-house sips. Expect to find unique twists on classic serves, including a Kombu Seaweed Martini and a twist on a Bloody Mary which features squid ink infused vodka.