Oysters and Lobster

We've had a lovely evening out tonight, surprisingly, since we arrived too late to see the show at the Hayward that we wanted to see, then were heading into Soho for a specific Indian that we couldn't find, but then we passed a busy and vibrant looking restaurant, Randall & Aubin; the door was ajar, as the queue tried to squeeze in, and the smell of garlicky freshness lured us towards the menu, hanging in the window, which spoke of fruits de mer, rotisserie, viandes and hors d'oeuvre. And, finally sealing our fate for the evening, the window display was filled with lobster, langoustine, prawns, oysters, clams, whelk and crab. We squeezed in, too.

The 25 minute wait was well worth it, and flew by as we sipped citron presse and white wine, while watching the chefs display their artistry. Lobsters were halved, rocket torn, chips - pomme frites - shaken and fried, oysters artistically arranged on beds of ice, and seabass dishes prepared with precision and ease. What a delicious entree to our meal!

We were seated in a private corner, with candles and the menus framed on the wall next to us. Perched on our high chairs, we made the decision to celebrate Valentine's Day early, sharing our first taste of oysters. The six rock oysters duly arrived, and we slurped them with a pinch of Tabasco and pickled onion juice. An interesting and overall positive experience. And the beautiful mother of pearl-esque shells caught my eye, so I have brought one home with me as a memento!

For our main course, H had the lobster - he'd decided early on in the evening that he had not had lobster for a while and he'd like to have some again - and I had the seabass. Both were delicious - well, I don't like lobster, but I tried some, and it was actually quite nice! My seabass - mmmmm! - came with rocket, a spring onion, chive and rosemary salsa, and sauted potatoes. Very filling. So much so that I decided to forego the dessert, and go straight to the cafe latte.

A very delicious evening, and a pleasant walk on an almost balmy night along Carnaby Street back towards Oxford Circus.