A restaurant entrepreneur will join the central London scene next month as he launches his new seafood bar and kitchen.

Rob Hampton, originally co-founding The Oystermen as a specialist shellfish pop-up, will be opening its first new permanent mooring ground in Convent Garden, on July 3, with business partner Matt Lovell.

The seafood haven will feature an open planned kitchen run by chef Alex Povall, lately of Angela Hartnett’s acclaimed Café Murano and Merchant’s Tavern, who will be serving up fresh fish and seafood.

Mr Hampton, who lives with his baby girl, Meg, and girlfriend, Tess, in Twickenham said: "We are delighted that Alex Povall is joining our team for The Oystermen Seafood Bar & Kitchen.

“Alex brings with him a wealth of experience, enthusiasm and excitement to the kitchen, and we can't wait to serve his stunning new dishes to our guests this summer".

Diners can enjoy a collection of oysters from all around the UK along with long-standing favourites, crab doughnuts and mackerel pate, whilst offering new dishes such as crispy cayenne mussels and clam chowder.

Visitors to the new venue can also sample the exclusive craft beer collaboration between The Oystermen and South London brewers Canopy Beer Co.

Echoing the restaurant’s intimate and lively atmosphere at its extended residency at The Sampler, South Kensington, the founders are determined to make their new home a success.

Mr Lovell said: ““Since its inception, The Oystermen has always been committed to finding a permanent home from which to bring our friendly and fresh seafood concept to the wider London audience.

“We are incredibly excited to be making that home Covent Garden, the heart of the West End and an increasingly vibrant foodie location.”

A set lunch and pre-theatre menu will be available seven days per week, and the oyster bar will remain open for post-theatre platters, light bites and drinks.