From Caviar to Crab Nachos: South Queensferry’s New Seafood Star is a Shore Thing

South Queensferry meets The Hamptons - Credit: Simone Hilliard Photography

From Michelin-starred caviar to crab nachos, proper fish ‘n’ chips, and lobster Thermidor, the newly opened Crab & Lobster Fish Shack in South Queensferry overdelivers.

Set within the former Frankie & Benny’s next to the Dakota Hotel, this vibrant new eatery is the latest venture from the Coghill family, the team behind Jack ‘O’ Bryan’s in Dunfermline and, before that, the much-loved Black Pig & Oyster in Leith. With over £350,000 invested and more than 60 new jobs created, this is more than a restaurant — it’s a bold statement of intent.

The restaurant officially opened its doors on Thursday, June 12th, but a soft launch on June 5th gave food writers and bloggers a sneak peek. What they found was a Hamptons-inspired haven of seafood excellence, complete with an open kitchen, marine blue decor, rope lights, lobster traps, and a cheeky neon slogan that says it all:

“Ye Cannae Beat a Crab & Lobster Fish Shack Fish Supper.”

And I can vouch for that fish supper — a generous, golden, crowd-pleasing classic. But, on this visit, I want to dive deeper into the menu, which is presented on a single oversized card, so you can immediately appreciate the full pescatarian delights on offer. 

And who, that is flesh and blood, could resist tempura oysters with buffalo aioli, Exmoor caviar served on ice with dinky blinis and crab nachos to share. The caviar comes from the foothills of Exmoor National Park and is farmed sustainably from sturgeon raised in fresh Devonshire spring water. It is distinguished by its delicate briny flavour with a splash of the sea (the result of curing with Hebridean or Cornish salt). Like the crab nachos, it is subtle rather than overpowering, and regarding those nachos, let's just say criminally addictive.

For the main course, Simone chooses the monkfish, a thick fillet with a golden Parmesan crust, served alongside fluffy chips and a scorched lemon that adds a smoky zing. Across the table, I dig into the lobster thermidor — rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent.

In my glass, a Palomino Fino — bone-dry, saline, and mineral — cuts through the richness with precision. Simone sips a pale Provençal rosé, light and floral, perfect for the seafood spread.

We skip the sticky toffee pudding and towering sundaes this time, opting instead for a simple but stunning finish: meringue and cream with sharp summer berries; two spoons, of course.

Beyond the food, the Shack is a labour of love. The Coghill family — Bryan, Michelle, their son and Head Chef Jack, and daughter-in-law Sarah — have poured their hearts into this space. And they’re not just serving seafood; they’re serving the community. The restaurant proudly supports Cash for Kids.

Even the over-55s are catered for with the Fish Shack Supper Club — haddock & chips, bread & butter, and a pot of tea for just £15, Monday to Thursday, 11am - 3pm. It’s a nod to tradition in a space that feels fresh and forward-thinking.

To say this new restaurant is impressive would be an understatement. From the open kitchen theatre to the Hamptons-style polish, from tasty starters to classic fish and chips, and top-notch friendly service, it dazzles. You’d never believe, not in a million years, that you were anywhere near a retail park.

What a brave, brilliant triumph.

The Crab & Lobster Shack: 7 Ferrymuir, South Queensferry EH30 9QZ - 0131 285 1291

Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 11am – 3.45pm & 5pm – 8.30pm

Sunday 11am-3,45pm,& 5pm - 8pm