A restaurant adored by customers so much that “Rick Stein himself couldn't replicate food this good” has been crowned one of the best sustainable eateries on the British coast.

Riley’s Fish Shack (and shop) in Tynemouth described as “the famous good-time shack on the beach” by The Guardian was one of 13 coastal spots to make the highly praised list.

The Guardian commented on its latest foodie guide: “Looking for ethical and delicious seafood? Here’s our pick of shacks, cafés and shops selling shellfish, seaweed and fish.”

You can read about each best sustainable eatery on the British coast here.

Why is Riley’s Fish Shack among best sustainable eateries on the British coast?

The Guardian explained: “The famous good-time shack on the beach – complete with firepits and deckchairs (as conditions dictate) – has now opened a shop in town where locals can pick up the best the North Sea has to offer, or take a workshop where laypeople can improve their skills as chefs and fishmongers.

“The staff teach shellfish preparation and fish techniques in the evenings, or you can spend a full day there learning how to master whole fish cookery.”

Additionally, Riley’s Fish Shack has a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor (from 1,690 reviews) and a 4.6/5 rating on Google (from 2,270 reviews).

@newcastlegateshead Lots of love for Riley’s 🫶 Find them overlooking King Edward’s Bay in Tynemouth #northeast #thingstodo #datenight #summer #weekendplans ♬ original sound - ur mom <3

Someone wrote about their recent visit: “In a league of it's own, not just for the North East but nationwide.

“The lads serving and in the kitchen were all exceptionally friendly. The view from the decking makes you feel like you're abroad.

“They have a couple a lovely local beers on tap. As for the reason we visited, the food; well it's a good as it gets. Menu is immense, we ordered 3 dishes and they all looked incredible and the flavours were unreal. What a place. Rick Stein himself couldn't replicate food this good!”

Another added: “Truly amazing food, fantastic service and a great atmospheric location. What more can you ask for? Can't wait to come back.”

Recommended reading:

Best Beaches in the UK

13 of the best sustainable eateries on the British coast

  1. Inver, Argyll & Bute
  2. Jenkins & Sons, Deal
  3. Seafood Shack, Ullapool
  4. Rocky Bottoms, Cromer
  5. East Pier Smokehouse, St Monans
  6. Riley’s Fish Shack and Shop, Tynemouth
  7. Cafe Môr, Angle, Pembrokeshire
  8. Crab House Cafe, Wyke Regis
  9. Lir, Coleraine
  10. The Shore Restaurant, Penzance
  11. Prawn on the Lawn, Padstow and London
  12. Catch at the Old Fish Market, Weymouth
  13. Ship Deck, Caerphilly

Riley’s Fish Shack is located at King Edward’s Bay, NE30 4BY.