If you think of London cuisine, nothing quite embodies the city like a piping-hot portion of fish and chips – golden, crispy batter encasing tender, flaky white fish, paired with thick-cut chips and a splash of malt vinegar. Whether you’re a local on the hunt for a favourite haunt or a visitor craving an authentic bite, finding the best fish and chips in London is a delicious adventure.
From bustling seaside-style shops tucked in historic streets to modern gastropubs reinventing this classic, London is packed with places where you can taste this quintessentially British comfort food done perfectly.
The Origins of Fish and Chips
Which one of these statements is not true?
- Pad Thai, the national dish of Thailand, is actually of Chinese origin.
- The Mexican taco al pastor has roots in Lebanon.
- Fish and chips actually come from Portugal.
The answer: they’re all true.
That’s right, fish and chips, that staple of the British diet, is not really British at all. Or at least it wasn’t. The roots of the dish, or at least the fish side of it, apparently hail from Jewish culture in Iberia. Jews couldn’t cook on the Sabbath, so in medieval Portugal, they fried fish on Friday afternoon so that it was preserved to eat on Saturday. And when Portuguese Jews immigrated to England starting in the late 15th century, they brought their recipe for fried cod and haddock.
Indeed, Thomas Jefferson, on a visit to London, referred to eating “fried fish in the Jewish tradition” and a British cookbook from 1781 has a recipe for “the Jews’ way of preserving all sorts of fish.”
How the chips part of the dish ended up marrying fried fish is a bit murkier. Food historians can trace the origin of chips, or the misnamed French fries, to Belgium.
The first “chippies” emerged in England in the 1860s, and today, there are around 10,000 fish and chip shops in the United Kingdom. It is a big business and a well respected culinary delight, with national and regional competitions, and trade memberships to the National Federation of Fish Friers.
The Best Fish and Chips In London
So, to celebrate what has become a staple of the British diet, here is a list of some of the best “chippies” – serving the delicious delicacy of fish and chips in London.
Brockley’s Rock
Having earned many awards, Brockley’s Rock is well known among locals for serving some of the best fish and chips in London.
The south-east London institution serves up excellent fried cod, as well as a few grilled seafood dishes for those looking to avoid fried food. They also cook up gluten-free, feel-good fare from Sunday to Thursday. Vegetarian? You can get meat-free dishes at Brockley’s too.
Golden Chippy
In Greenwich since 2005, Golden Chippy is beloved among locals in south London. Cod is the de rigeur fried fish at this 12-seat spot, but the shop also will fry (or grill, upon request) skate, rock, plaice, or haddock.
The secret recipe for the batter makes the fried fish here particularly light and crispy.
Ken’s Fish Bar
“Thank Cod for Ken’s,” is the slogan of this family-run chippy in Herne Hill. Ken’s is the favorite of Guardian restaurant critic Jay Rayner who has proclaimed it to be the best fish and chips in London. Conveniently, it also happens to be a few minutes from his home.
That said, Ken’s freshly fried fish is crispy on the outside and flaky and tender on the inside and could give any chippy a run for its money in London.
Toff’s
Often voted the best fish and chips in England, Toff’s has been frying up fish and chips since 1968. The Cypriot-owned spot in Muswell Hill does more than just the usual fried cod and haddock.
You can also get salmon, skate, Dover sole, seabass, and halibut, among others. Start with a bowl of the excellent fish soup here. For vegetarians, don’t miss the deep-fried Camembert.
The Seashell of Lisson Grove
The Seashell has been frying up white fish and cut potatoes since before World War II and since 1964 in its current location in Lisson Grove. It’s a favorite among Londoners when they’re in need of a chippy fix.
Everyone from chef Alain Ducasse to Dua Lipa to Stevie Wonder have stopped by to tuck into some fried cod and chips here.
Mr. Fish
A sleek, smart-looking spot in Queens Park, Mr. Fish boasts an enormous menu of oceanic goodness. Yes, there are the usual cod and haddock but let your eyes comb through the menu of a dozen other fried fish options, including hake.
There’s also a children’s menu, as well as a nice selection of beer and wine.
Fryer’s Delight
Located in Bloomsbury, Fryer’s Delight was started by two brothers from Italy. The method for frying the fish and the chips they do here is “beef dipping,” which makes the outer batter more substantial.
It will come as no surprise to see some black cabs parked out in front, as this old-school chippy is popular with taxi drivers.
The Golden Hind
For over a century, The Golden Hind has been frying up fish and chips for the masses at this location in Marylebone. Don’t mistake this for a diminutive no-frills take-away spot. The Hind is a full-blown restaurant, complete with a booze menu.
FAQs – Best Fish and Chips in London
How much do fish and chips typically cost in London?
Most portions of classic fish and chips in London range from £8–£15 for a standard cod or haddock meal with chips. Premium options — like skate, Dover sole, or halibut — can cost £18–£25. Many restaurants also offer family meals or extras such as mushy peas, curry sauce, or drinks for a few pounds more.
When is the best time to visit a fish and chip shop?
While many London chippies are open for lunch and dinner, the peak hours are 12–2 pm and 6–8 pm, so expect queues at popular spots like Toff’s or The Seashell. Some locations, especially in the East End, open early and stay open late, catering to early commuters and night owls looking for a hot takeaway.
Are there any traditions/ etiquette when eating fish and chips?
Fish and chips are traditionally eaten with malt vinegar, salt, and sometimes mushy peas. It’s often served in paper wrapping for takeaway or on plates if dining in. Ordering chips “salted” or “mushy peas on the side” is common; in some historic shops, black cabs or locals may give you a nod of approval if you eat it “properly” with a fork and knife.
Do I need to reserve a table at popular fish and chip restaurants?
Most classic chippies don’t take reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, particularly smaller takeaways. However, larger establishments with dining areas, like The Golden Hind or Mr. Fish, may accept table bookings, especially for evenings or weekends. For groups, calling ahead can save wait time.
Are there gluten-free or vegan fish and chips options in London?
Many modern London chippies now cater to dietary preferences. Gluten-free batter is available at places like Brockley’s Rock, and some restaurants offer vegan “fish” alternatives made from tofu, banana blossom, or battered vegetables. Vegan mushy peas and chips cooked in separate fryers are also increasingly common, making it possible for everyone to enjoy this classic dish without compromise.
Why not check out more of London’s top culinary gems?
If you want to splurge on an upscale dining experience, check out our list of the Best Tasting Menus in London to experience the best of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Or why not take a back seat and take advantage of expert knowledge and years of research from the locals who live and breathe what London has to offer? Choose to join one of our many London food tours. These include an exploration of foody-haven Southwark and a visit to the famous Borough Market or a tour of fare and drinks at London’s most historic taverns.