1️⃣ Introduction - Britain's iconic dish
Fish & chips is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable dishes of British cuisine - a golden, crispy fish (usually cod or haddock), served with thick fries, malt vinegar and a distinctive pea purée (known as "peas"). mushy peas).
This dish has gained the status of national delicacy as early as the 19th century and is still a must-see on London's culinary map.
While it may be associated with simple take-out food in a newspaper wrapper, many establishments have taken fish & chips to the next level - offering not only traditional versions, but also modern interpretations:
- With seasonal fish,
- gluten-free cake,
- or plant options.
Whether you're looking for an authentic taste from years ago or a culinary twist, there's something for you in London.
2️⃣ What is the difference between classic fish & chips and modern versions?
Classic Fish & Chips is all about simplicity and tradition. Fried cod or haddock in a beer batter coating, thick deep-fried fries, a little salt, malt vinegar and possibly mushy peas - it's a combo that hasn't changed in generations.
The modern approach to this dish is primarily experimenting with form and ingredients. More and more venues are offering their own interpretations of this classic, betting on quality and creativity.
💠 Type of fish: in addition to cod, pollock, halibut and even salmon appear
💠 Method of preparation: instead of frying - baking, sous-vide cooking or grilling
💠 Pancake: gluten-free, herbal, corn, beer, and even activated charcoal
💠 Fries: thick or thin, classic or baked, sometimes with yams
💠 Extras: instead of vinegar - homemade sauces, remoulades, aioli, mint puree
💠 Method of administration: from newspaper to stylish plate with micro leaves and lemon foam
Regardless of the version, a well-prepared fish & chips remains a dish that bridges generations - now it simply comes in many versions.
3️⃣ Best classic fish & chips in London
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Looking for a taste that has stood the test of time? Here are London venues where fish & chips are served the way they should be - and the way they should be. Classical, fresh and without any embellishments.
💠 Poppies Fish & Chips - Soho, Camden, Spitalfields
Styled in the 1950s, Poppies is a true institution. Fresh fish, thick fries, authentic atmosphere and proven quality - no wonder the establishment has won many awards.
💠 The Golden Hind - Marylebone
It has been in operation since 1914! Family atmosphere, fast service and excellent fish and batter ratios. Choose from cod, haddock and even salmon.
💠 Rock & Sole Plaice - Covent Garden
One of the oldest fish & chip bars in London. A classic in the heart of the city - the perfect place for tourists looking for traditional flavors.
💠 Masters Super Fish - Waterloo
A small, not too elegant establishment with phenomenal quality. The portions are large, the fish is fried to perfection, and the side dishes are like grandma's - a must with vinegar!
💠 North Sea Fish Restaurant - Bloomsbury
Quiet location, wooden interior and fish delivered daily from the market in Billingsgate. The perfect place for lunch after a stroll around the British Museum.
4️⃣ Modern interpretations of fish & chips
London's food scene is not afraid to experiment - including with fish & chips. These places prove that classics can go hand in hand with creativity and quality.
💠 Sutton & Sons - Shoreditch, Islington
A family-run restaurant that, in addition to the classics, also offers vegan banana fish & chips. Plus homemade pickles and sauces - a taste of modernity without compromise.
💠 Toff's of Muswell Hill - Muswell Hill
Although it maintains the spirit of the classics, it often serves less typical fish and unusual side dishes. Appreciated for its high quality and local approach to the product.
5️⃣ Fish & chips for vegans and vegetarians - also possible!
More and more London establishments are catering to people who don't eat fish, but still crave the classic combination of crispy "fish" and French fries. Here are a few places where fish & chips has plant face - And it is not at all inferior to the original.
💠 What The Pitta - Camden, Shoreditch, Croydon
Although they specialize in kebabs, they have "tofush & chips" - tofu in a crispy coating with herbs, served with fries and aioli sauce. The taste surprises positively!
💠 Unity Diner - Hoxton
A stylish, plant-based bistro co-founded by animal rights activists. A vegan version of fish & chips with breaded seitan is their regular, very popular menu item.
6️⃣ Where to eat fish & chips with a view?
🌆 Garden over the city's rooftops
👉 Sky Garden - views, restaurants and free entry
London is not only good cuisine, but also amazing views. If you want to combine the pleasure of eating with the pleasure of seeing the city - these locations are a hit.
💠 Southbank - London Eye area
Along the Thames you will find many stalls and establishments serving fish & chips. You can eat on a bench overlooking Big Ben and St. Paul's Cathedral. It's especially atmospheric at sunset.
💠 Greenwich - at the wharf and market
After a visit to the maritime museum or planetarium, it's worth stopping by one of the local eateries. The view of the docks and the Thames adds charm to even the simplest of fries.
💠 Camden Market - by the canal
In bustling Camden, you'll find modern interpretations of street food fish & chips. Eat at a table overlooking the canal and colorful boats - it's one of the most "instagram-able" places.
💠 Tower Bridge - St Katharine Docks area
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A slightly more quiet place with a beautiful view of the marina and Tower Bridge. Perfect for lunch on a warm day, among the cobblestone streets and historic walls.
7️⃣ Fish & chips to go - where is it worth lining up?
You don't always have to sit down at a table. Sometimes the best fish & chips is the one eaten on a park bench, on the steps by the Thames or on the run between attractions. Here are places where It's worth the wait even if you're in line, to take your portion to go.
💠 The Fryer's Delight - Holborn
An unpretentious diner in the style of the 60's. Prices are reasonable, portions are solid, and taste - just like the good old days. The perfect place for a quick lunch.
💠 Golden Union - Soho
Located in the heart of London, the establishment offers great fish & chips to go. The fish is fresh, the coating is crispy, and the French fries are still hot after a few minutes' walk to Soho Square.
💠 Takeaway from Poppies (Camden)
If you don't have time for a full dinner, Poppies offers a takeaway option - packaged in a stylized paper package. Eat it at a nearby market or by the canal.
💠 Fishcoteque - at Waterloo Station
A popular place among travelers - fast service, good quality and an ideal location if you want a snack before continuing to explore.
8️⃣ Tips for tourists: how to know a good fish & chips?
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You'll find fish & chips on almost every corner in London, but not every serving will taste the way it should. Here are a few fast rules, which will help you avoid disappointment.
💠 A queue in front of the premises is a good sign
If there's a group of people - especially locals - standing in front of a bar or restaurant, it's likely the place is serving something really good.
💠 Ask about the type of fish
Fresh cod or haddock is a classic. If you see only "fish" on the menu, with no details - it could mean a frozen mix of unknown origin.
💠 Pay attention to the coating
It should be golden, crispy and not too thick. Spongy or dark can mean old fat or frying too long.
💠 French fries should not drip fat
It's best if they are thick, slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. If they are moist and greasy - skip it.
💠 Vinegar and additives available locally
In a good place you will find malt vinegar, salt shakers, and sometimes mushy peas, lemon or tartar sauce. The absence of these classic side dishes can be a signal that the place is going for quantity rather than quality.
💠 The smell of frying
A pleasant, slightly salty smell is a good sign. If the smell of old oil rises - it is better to look for something else.
9️⃣ Summary - classic or modern? Or maybe both?
Fish & chips is a dish that has no single face in London. You can eat it on a newspaper in a small vintage bar or on a porcelain plate in a trendy restaurant overlooking the Thames.
💠 If you are looking for authentic, nostalgic taste - go to one of the classic establishments where the fish is fresh, the fries are thick, and the atmosphere recalls the days of decades ago.
💠 If you want explore a modern take on of this iconic dish - try the banana version, sesame breaded or homemade aioli. London is not afraid of culinary experimentation and does it with class.
Best? Try both versions - Classics for lunch, modernity for dinner. Because fish & chips in London is not just about food. It's a culinary journey through the tradition, creativity and flavor of the city.
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