Fish, Chips & Flavour Tips: A Culinary Dive into a Classic in London

Fish and chips is one of the most iconic dishes in British gastronomy. It’s associated with seaside towns, sunny holidays, and Friday dinners. This dish is a true symbol of working-class life.

The Origins of Fish and Chips

So, when did this beloved dish start? The origins of fish and chips trace back to overseas roots. It began in the 1700s with Jewish Spanish immigrants (known as pescaito frito in the south of Spain) and Portuguese emigrants. The dish gained popularity in London and other cities during the 19th century.

In the 1800s, fried potatoes were introduced by French and Belgian cooking. This is why, in the USA, they are called French fries! The first combination of fried fish and fried potatoes has two rivals claiming to be the first:

• Joseph Malin (London, 1860s): A Jewish immigrant believed to have opened the first combined fish and chip shop in the East End of London.

• John Lees (near Manchester, 1863): Reportedly sold fish and chips from a wooden hut at a market.

  
  

Where to Enjoy Fish and Chips in London

Here are my suggestions for trying this summery dish around the capital. Are these the best? Well, that is debatable! The best meals always depend on the company you share them with. These recommendations are some of the most famous spots, but remember... food tastes even better with great company!

Poppies

Located in Portobello, Camden, Spitalfields, and Soho, Poppies has a delightful 50s vibe. This restaurant opened in 1945 and has won numerous accolades. It’s a fantastic choice for tourists and locals alike who want to step back in time.

• Haddock or Cod: £19.99 or large £22.95

• Visit Poppies

  
  

Ken's Fish Bar

In Herne Hill SE24 (South East London), Ken's Fish Bar is a local favourite. It became world-famous after appearing on the Netflix show Somebody Feeds Phil, Season 3, Episode 3.

• Takeaway: Cod £11.20, Chips £4

• Visit Ken's Fish Bar

  
  

The Golden Chippy

Located in Greenwich SE10, The Golden Chippy serves classic fish and chips with a twist, adding a Mediterranean salad to the mix. Opened in 2005, it occupies a building that has been serving food since 1940.

• Cod: £15.50, Large £17.50

• Visit The Golden Chippy

  
  

The George

Situated in Fritzovia W1W, The George is named one of the best gastropubs in the UK and is on the Michelin List. It serves one of the most popular fish and chips in the area.

• Price: £18 for a small or £26.50 for a large portion.

• Visit The George

  
  

Rock and Sole Plaice

Since 1871, Rock and Sole Plaice in Covent Garden (WC2H) has been the oldest running chippy in the capital. Don’t be fooled by its central location; this place has been serving fish and chips for over 150 years for a reason.

• Cod: Regular £21, Large £25, served with tartar sauce

• Visit Rock and Sole Plaice

  
  

The Mayfair Chippy

Located in Mayfair and Knightsbridge, The Mayfair Chippy has been accredited with a 1 AA Rosette and Michelin Guide recognition since opening in 2015. The restaurant is open seven days a week.

• Cod or Haddock: £24.95

• Visit The Mayfair Chippy

  
  

Hobson's Fish and Chips

With locations in Soho, Paddington, and Charing Cross, Hobson's focuses on simplicity. There’s no fancy decor here, just sustainable fish sourced daily from Billingsgate Market. This is a recommended option for those wanting a traditional meal.

• Cod and Haddock with Chips: £22.45

• Visit Hobson's Fish and Chips

  
  

The Fryers Delight

Since 1958, The Fryers Delight in Holborn (WC1X) has been a destination for capital workers. Founded by two Italian brothers, they pride themselves on serving “golden, crispy, and fried the proper way in beef dripping. No nonsense, no shortcuts.”

• Haddock: £8.50, Large Chips £3.70

• Visit The Fryers Delight

  
  

Oli's Fish & Chips

Situated on Caledonian Road N7 9DQ, Oli's Fish & Chips is in the trendy Islington area. This neighbourhood chippy is open every day of the week, serving takeaways and dine-in options. They boast fresh fish (cod, haddock, plaice, rock, and skate) daily, along with classic pies and sausages. Portions are generous, and you get a 20% discount if you order online. What’s not to like?

• Cod and Chips: £12

• Visit Oli's Fish & Chips

  
  

The Most Expensive Option

Kerridge's Fish and Chips is located in Harrods, Knightsbridge. The two Michelin Star chef Tom Kerridge has embarked on an adventure in one of the most famous department stores in the world.

• Catch of the Day, Curry Sauce, Chips, and Tartare Sauce: £37

• Visit Kerridge's Fish and Chips

  
  

Exploring Beyond London

Are you outside of London? No problem, we’ve got you covered!

Harry Ramsdens

With seven different locations around the UK, Harry Ramsdens serves both eat-in and takeaway fish and chips. They have been serving food since 1928 and boast one of the largest restaurants in the world, with 428 seats in Bournemouth. They pride themselves on using only sustainably sourced fish. In July 1952, the restaurant broke the Guinness World Record for the most portions of fish and chips served in a day, serving 10,000 people!

• Cod or Haddock: Small at £14.99, Medium £15.99, and Large at £16.99

• Visit Harry Ramsdens

  
  

If you're still curious about fish and chips, you can explore further! A YouTuber has spent 15 months trying 120 different chippies across the country. He has compiled his findings on a website. You can follow Steve on social media and check out his insights through this link: The Chippy Tour.

In No Specific Order

• Chris's Chippy - Liverpool, Visit Chris's Chippy

• Plaice Station - Warrington, Visit Plaice Station

• The Catch - North Cave, Visit The Catch

• East Park Chippy - Hull, Visit East Park Chippy

• Pollard's Plaice - Hull, Visit Pollard's Plaice

  
  

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