A Seafood Gem in the Heart of Bath – The Scallop Shell

Situated in the heart of the world heritage city of Bath, The Scallop Shell is more than just a fish and chip restaurant – it’s a true celebration of British seafood. From the moment we stepped inside, it was clear that this family-run venture is driven by a deep-rooted passion for quality, sustainability, and a love for all things from the sea.

Founded in 2015 by acclaimed chef Garry Rosser, who returned to the city where his culinary journey first began, The Scallop Shell has quickly become a standout destination for seafood lovers. Rosser’s dedication to fresh, sustainable catch from UK waters is evident in every dish, and it’s not unusual to see him chatting with guests or checking in with the kitchen – a warm reminder that this is a labour of love, not just a business.

Spread across two floors, The Scallop Shell boasts a charming, nautically-themed interior and a stunning indoor/outdoor space known as the Little Scallop. This inviting setting sets the tone perfectly for the exceptional meal that follows. The atmosphere is relaxed yet vibrant, the kind of place where you feel equally comfortable dressed up for a date or popping in after a walk through town.

We began with a plate of fresh oysters and a classic prawn cocktail, given an elegant twist with the addition of a soft-boiled egg. The oysters were incredibly fresh – briny, cold, and served simply with lemon and shallot vinegar. The prawn cocktail was beautifully balanced, creamy but not overwhelming, with plump prawns and that perfectly cooked egg adding richness to the dish.

For mains, we chose the grilled Dover sole and a portion of hake, both cooked to perfection – you can get most fish fried also if preferred. The sole was delicately charred and melted in the mouth, while the hake was firm yet flaky, holding its own with a subtle seasoning that let the natural flavour shine through.

The real showstopper, however, was the chips. Peeled and freshly cut daily from the best seasonal potatoes in the restaurant’s dedicated “spud room”, they were crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and unlike any chips we’ve had before. We paired our meal with a side of buttered cabbage with bacon – a humble-sounding dish elevated to pure comfort food with just the right amount of salt and richness.

What truly sets The Scallop Shell apart is its ability to blend traditional British fish and chips with the finesse of a high-end seafood grill. Whether it’s the classic cod and haddock in light, crispy batter or more adventurous seasonal specials sourced from early morning coastal markets, there’s a sense of pride and care in everything they serve.

Open for lunch all week and for dinner from Monday to Saturday, The Scallop Shell is a must-visit for anyone in Bath. It’s not just a meal – it’s an experience that captures the best of British seafood, served with warmth, heart, and authenticity.

Find out more > www.thescallopshell.co.uk