For a hip apéritif
Psychic Burger
Super-cool Dalston hotspot Rita’s may be no more, but the space has been revived as Psychic Burger. In addition to regular diner-style burgers, chicken and ribs, you can get a soft-shell crab burger (£9.50): two deep-fried crabs, crammed into a bun, legs akimbo — naughty and delicious.
33-35 Stoke Newington Road, N16, birthdaysdalston.com
For chews with a view
Hutong at the Shard
A huge part of Hutong’s draw is its setting, but the menu does offer some interesting northern Chinese dishes. For a bit of theatre, order Peking duck (carved tableside, £58 for two people) and the Red Lantern (£28): soft-shell crab fried and served in a lantern stuffed with chillies. It’s hot enough, so don’t try to eat the chillies, too.
Level 33 The Shard, SE1, aquahutong.co.uk
For classy curry
Benares
This glamorous spot in the middle of Mayfair is the place for a treat. Crisp, perfectly deep-fried soft-shell crab is served with corn spring rolls and a peanut and apple salad (£18), or may come as part of a tasting menu (from £78), served luxuriously with peri-peri lobster cocktail.
12A Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, W1, benaresrestaurant.com
