One of London’s best-known seafood events is returning this autumn as the London Oyster Championships head back to Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill in Mayfair.
The annual competition will take place on Friday, 18 September, bringing together professional oyster shuckers, leading chefs and seafood experts from across the UK. The event also marks the beginning of the British native oyster season, which traditionally runs from September through spring.
Bentley’s, one of London’s oldest seafood restaurants, is celebrating more than a century of serving oysters and fresh seafood. Established in 1916 and led by chef Richard Corrigan since 2005, the restaurant has become one of the capital’s best-known destinations for oyster lovers.
Speed Shucking Competition Returns
One of the highlights of the event is the London Oyster Open, where professional competitors race against the clock to open oysters quickly while maintaining presentation and quality.
Contestants will compete through several qualifying rounds before the overall winner is crowned.
The champion will earn the opportunity to represent England at the World Oyster Opening Championships in Galway, Ireland, continuing a tradition that has helped showcase British oyster talent on the international stage.
The judging panel will once again include respected figures from the UK shellfish industry, helping ensure the competition is judged to professional standards.
Leading UK Chefs Compete for Best Dressed Oyster
The event will also feature the popular Best Dressed Oyster competition.
Some of Britain’s leading chefs will create original oyster recipes using seasonal ingredients, with judges assessing creativity, flavour and presentation.
Past competitions have featured award-winning restaurants and Michelin-starred chefs, helping establish the event as one of the UK’s most recognised oyster competitions.
The winning oyster creation will later appear on Bentley’s seasonal menu.
Celebrating British Seafood
The championships are designed to celebrate the arrival of Britain’s native oyster season while promoting sustainable seafood and the skills of professional oyster shuckers.
Native oysters have long been an important part of Britain’s seafood heritage, with many restaurants introducing seasonal menus as supplies become available each autumn.
Bentley’s has built its reputation around serving oysters sourced from trusted producers around the British and Irish coastline, alongside sustainably sourced seafood.
VIP Oyster Masterclass Available
A limited number of VIP tickets will also be available for visitors interested in learning more about oysters.
The masterclass will include:
- Oyster shucking techniques
- Oyster tasting
- Information about oyster farming
- Food and Champagne pairing
- Insights into oyster sourcing and preparation
The session will be led by oyster specialists and industry experts, giving guests an opportunity to learn more about one of Britain’s best-known seafood traditions.
Growing Popularity of Food Events in London
London’s food festivals and chef competitions continue to attract growing audiences as interest in British seafood and local produce increases.
Events such as the London Oyster Championships not only celebrate culinary skills but also support producers, restaurants and hospitality businesses across the country.
With professional competitions, chef demonstrations and educational experiences, the championships have become one of the capital’s standout annual seafood events.
A Celebration of London’s Seafood Heritage
For visitors, chefs and oyster enthusiasts alike, the London Oyster Championships offer a chance to experience one of London’s longest-running seafood traditions.
As native oyster season returns, Bentley’s will once again welcome competitors and guests for a day dedicated to craftsmanship, British seafood and culinary excellence.
