Sweetings is described as probably the oldest fish and oyster restaurant in London. The weekday lunch-only restaurant opened on its present site in 1889, although the company's history dates to the 1830s, when it was called John S. Sweetings, Fish and Oyster Merchant and supplied fish and ice to country houses. The Gothic-style building in which it is housed was built in 1869 at the dawn of the Industrialization Era. Inside, traditions remain. Seafoods are displayed on an antique marble slab in the window. Beer is served in silver tankards. And diners pack communal tables set with bread and butter to peruse the Bill of Fare. Starters range from lobster bisque (£7) to dressed crab (£20.75), as well as potted shrimp, prawn cocktail and smoked eel. The 14 mains (from £15 to £45) include Dover sole, Cornish brill and other seafood specialties. Take note: Tea or coffee is not served. There is, however, a fine selection of brandies and vintage port. Reservations are not accepted, so get there early or prepare to wait.