Seemor
Smith's of WappingAMust Try
22 Wapping High St, London E1W 1NJ
· Seafood restaurant, French restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (2317 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Destination seafood with river views and polished service; pricey but generally delivers memorable meals.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Smith's of Wapping stands among the region's finest dining establishments, driven by exceptional seafood execution—oysters, scallops, halibut, and lobster consistently praised—paired with iconic river views and Tower Bridge backdrop that elevate the occasion. Attentive, personable service and strong loyalty from repeat diners reinforce its status as a destination worth crossing town for, though occasional noise and table proximity prevent it from reaching the very highest tier.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels glass-walled and riverside, with Tower Bridge framed like a postcard and a gentle glow after sunset. Staff are often described as attentive and personable, the kind who nudge you toward the best catch without pressure. One diner put it simply: "The view sets the mood and the team carries it the rest of the way." At peak times it can swing loud, so the vibe leans lively rather than hushed. The culinary approach is classic seafood cookery with selective modern touches: think grilled scallops, meuniere skate and halibut, alongside miso black cod and bright ceviche. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional with contemporary accents: precise cooking and premium sourcing over theatrics. It suits diners who value perfectly cooked fish, a strong shellfish program, and sauces matched to your chosen cooking style. Families who enjoy seafood will find it workable, though there is no explicit kids menu noted. Simpler options like grilled salmon, cod or pasta can suit younger palates, but picky eaters may struggle with a seafood-led list. The room is polished and occasionally loud; for a calmer family meal, aim for earlier seatings where the view still captivates without the dinner rush.
At a Glance
- Iconic river views with polished, attentive service
- Top-flight seafood execution with oysters, scallops, halibut, and lobster praised
- Noise can spike at busy times; some tables feel close
- Premium pricing; expect very_expensive checks
- Many loyal regulars report steady or improving standards
What Sets It Apart
- panoramic_river_views
- seafood_specialist_with_premium_shellfish
- choose_cooking_style_for_fish
- lounge_for_post_meal_relaxation
What People Love
- The wow-factor river and bridge views
- Seafood cooked with care and consistency
- Personable staff who elevate special occasions
- Choice of cooking styles and sauces for fish
Points of Concern
- Pricing is high, especially for premium fish and shellfish; budget accordingly
- Noise levels can rise during peak services, reducing intimacy
- A few isolated service lapses and management responses frustrated some diners
- One recent food safety complaint contrasts with otherwise clean reports; appears isolated
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£65-90 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For a balanced meal: tuna tataki (£19.50), wild sea bass (£38), ice cream and sorbets (£10.50). For shellfish fans: oysters (£22), scallops meuniere (£40), whole lobster (£58).
Perfect For
- Anniversary dinners with a view
- Business lunches where you can talk seafood and deals
- Celebrations with shellfish lovers
- Out-of-town guests wanting a scenic London meal
Location Insights
Area: Historic riverside stretch in East London, popular for scenic Thames views and relaxed upscale dining.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic along the riverside; late-night bar noise can occur in pockets.
Nearby: Near Tower Bridge and The Shard sightlines; adjacent to riverside pubs like Captain Kidd and Town of Ramsgate.
WappingA transformed riverside neighborhood blending historic maritime character with contemporary urban living, featuring converted warehouses, trendy apartments, and a sophisticated dining and lifestyle scene
Wapping WaterfrontExclusive waterfront area with stunning Thames views, featuring renovated historic buildings and modern architectural developments
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–14:30, 17:30–21:00
Tuesday12:00–14:30, 17:30–21:00
Wednesday12:00–14:30, 17:30–21:00
Thursday12:00–14:30, 17:30–21:00
Friday12:00–14:30, 17:30–21:45
Saturday12:00–14:30, 17:30–21:45
Sunday12:00–15:30, 18:00–20:30
Available: Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →