Already an established high-end fishmonger, Fin and Flounder is a favourite of the yummy mummy east London set. Now, the brand has transitioned into a restaurant with a seafood shack on Netil Market: Bar Flounder. Just around the corner from perennially popular Broadway Market, this sweet seafood spot is found within a custom-built ‘shack’ designed by Ab Rogers, who just happens to be the son of much-lauded Italian-British architect Richard Rogers.
The menu celebrates the best in British seafood, championing fish and shellfish bought directly from Cornish day boats by owner Brendan O’Sullivan (who began his fishmonger business back in 2014). With a clutch of high-end restaurants as clients (including Rochelle Canteen, The Clove Club, Brat, Smoking Goat and Lyle’s), it’s O’Sullivan’s own daughter Ruby that is the brainchild behind the brand’s evolution into its own dining concept.
The menu has a street food focus and follows on from a wildly popular summer popup. Head chef John Javier’s crowd-pleasing concoctions include brunch specials like crab hash browns and a scallop and bacon butty with tomato relish. Come lunchtime there’s a tempting selection of casual creations that range from a juicy prawn burger with chipotle mayo through to a salmon tartare served with truffle crisps to scoop and dip with. Completing the menu is a small selection of sides like deep-fried pickles and portions of fresh fries (because what is fish without chips, really?). Veggies are also catered for with a small selection of fish-free meals on offer each day, which is ideal if you’re dining in a mixed group.
Brunch is only served over weekends, and available until 12pm, while lunch is served Thursday-Sunday from 12pm.
Drinks-wise there’s a small selection of beers, wine, and the house signature Vermouth Slushie. This cocktail creation combines vermouth, agave, Cointreau, and soda for a grown up yet fun and fruity spin on a childhood classic.