Seemor

What's On The Menu Ish ?A-?Proceed Cautiously

Name: What's On The Menu Ish ?
Address: 2 Crown Cl, Bow, London E3 2JQ, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

2 Crown Cl, Bow, London E3 2JQ · Caribbean restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (55 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Fresh, made-to-order Caribbean seafood with standout jerk fish, friendly vibes, and moderate prices; expect a hidden-location feel and occasional waits.

Why it gets an A-? for overall quality

Preliminary Grade: This restaurant has only 55 reviews, which is below our 50-review minimum for reliable grading. This grade should be considered preliminary until more reviews are available. What's On The Menu Ish delivers exceptional food quality anchored by fresh-to-order Caribbean seafood and standout jerk preparations, supported by warm, attentive service that guides diners through sauces and spice. Reliable execution across repeat visits and catering work reinforces its standing as a respected neighborhood favorite. The hidden Bow location and compact setting prevent the broader destination appeal needed for grade A territory, though loyal regulars and strong value for seafood justify solid A-grade standing.

Restaurant Summary

Tucked behind a small complex in Bow, this spot feels like a hidden gem where the counter team chats through sauces and spice while the grill sizzles. Diners talk about fresh fish and big flavors: "The seabass had that perfect jerk bite and still tasted of the sea." Service reads as warm and personal, though a made-to-order system can mean a modest wait at busy times. The room leans casual and relaxed and warm rather than scene-y. The culinary approach leans elevated Caribbean comfort with a seafood bias: recognizable classics with thoughtful upgrades like soft shell crab and lobster burgers, crisp salt-and-pepper prawns, and a baked triple-cheese mac that regulars rave about. Sauces provide heat and tang, and the kitchen emphasizes fresh-to-order cooking over gimmicks, which is why people book them for catered dinners as well as quick lunches. For families, there are enough kid-friendly options to make it work: chips, baked mac, coleslaw, grilled chicken, and mild sides. Just note the sauces can run hot, so ask for guidance and keep the jerk heat light for younger palates. Portions are reasonable, prices are moderate, and the menu has gluten-free and vegan-friendly choices, though the most exciting items skew seafood-forward and spicy.

At a Glance

Fresh, made-to-order Caribbean seafood with standout jerk fish
Friendly staff who guide sauce and spice choices
Good value for seafood at moderate prices
Hidden location can be hard to find on first visit
Occasional slow service during busy times due to cook-to-order model

What Sets It Apart

jerk_seafood_specialist
house_sauces_and_pickles
event_catering_with_custom_menus
hidden_gem_setting

What People Love

The jerk seabass and salmon hit that smoky-sweet-spicy balance
Triple-cheese mac as the comforting sidekick
Friendly, engaged service with sauce recommendations
Freshness of seafood and made-to-order cooking

Points of Concern

Location is tucked away; first-timers may struggle to find the entrance
Spice levels can be intense; not ideal for very sensitive palates unless adjusted
One-off report of rude interaction contrasts with otherwise friendly service
Made-to-order approach can slow service at peak times

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost£20-£32 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

If you want mild: jerk salmon with BBQ or mango sauce, plus salad.
If you want heat: jerk seabass with house hot sauce and seasoned rice.
Value combo: jerk chicken (£8) with plantain (£2-£3) and mac (£4-£6).
Vegetarian: oyster mushroom burger (£14) with chips (£4-£5).

Perfect For

Seafood lovers craving bold Caribbean flavors
Casual dinners with friends before a night out
Takeaway when you want fresh fish and plantain
Small celebrations or catered events needing customized menus

Location Insights

Area: East London residential-meets-creative zone with light industrial pockets and emerging food spots.

Safety: Generally safe with regular foot traffic; back-of-complex location may feel quiet after dark but typical for the area.

Nearby: Near small commercial units and residential streets; occasional event catering and pop-up appearances around London.

BowA transitional neighborhood blending traditional East End working-class heritage with contemporary urban renewal, featuring a mix of council housing, new developments, and emerging creative spaces.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday14:00–22:00 Wednesday14:00–22:00 Thursday14:00–22:00 Friday14:00–22:00 Saturday14:00–22:00 Sunday14:00–20:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

View full analysis on Seemor →