London’s perhaps least loved postcode finally has something to celebrate

I’ve lived in SW16 since forever, I was born in Croydon, and I have waited patiently for Streatham to ‘come up. Even Peckham, which in my childhood was basically shorthand for ‘here be dragons’, has become upmarket and cool while Streatham has remained largely ignored and unloved.

Things are changing. Now we have an shiny new LTN, which is very middle class, and the High Street has plenty of bars and restaurants and now I observe a new one being fitted out as I wander to the bus stop.

Shrimp Shack has chosen Streatham for its debut site

Shrimp Shack is apparently a new fast casual dining restaurant centred around one of the ocean’s most abundant ingredients, and it will open early January. 

The core menu centres, I am told, on a build your own experience where you first choose your size of shrimp, be that the Prince or Queen, followed by the dip – lemon butter, garlic butter or peri-peri. And finally the seasoning – while some like it hot, others prefer a salty finish. Sides are a variety of crispy chips, rice, potatoes and of course a fresh salad. 

Other seafood, including crab and lobster are available, as well as meat choices of beef, lamb or chicken with all the same dip, seasoning, and side applications.

Available for eat in, you’ll take your seat and either register via QR code to receive opening discounts on your first order or a waiter will take your order at the table. Alternatively opt for takeaway via Deliveroo and Uber Eats 

Having co-founded dessert chain Creams in 2008, director Balal Aqil says he is excited about his next foodie venture.

“We wanted to launch something totally unique that is different from the hundreds of burger chains around, which is where the idea of grilled shrimp came from. This new casual dining experience is going to be as much fun as it is tasty, showcasing innovative experiences to its guests that they’ll want to come back time and time again.“

Sounds good, I am looking forward to getting my Streatham shrimp on.