A culinary symbol of British culture, fish and chips are the kind of comfort food you suddenly find yourself craving urgently. In that case, you need to know the right address, because while chippies may not be rocket science, finding a proper one isn’t as simple as it seems. And though some swear the finest golden bites are only found on the coast, I can assure you, London has its fair share of gems. So, here’s your shortlist of spots recognized with the Best Fish and Chips award, where you’re guaranteed to avoid any soggy disappointment.
I purposefully headed to The Golden Chippy several years ago on a mission to check out what earned it the title of London’s best fish and chips, and even the best restaurant on a popular travel platform. I’ll admit, I ended up going back for more when I was in the area because it was just that good. In addition to classic cod and haddock, you’ll spot scampi, skate, and halibut, but what I love most is the Mediterranean touch — there’s a lovely salad served alongside, plus their amazing homemade tartar sauce. And they offer vegan options too, which is a nice bonus.
I haven’t tried the rest of the menu yet — honestly, the portions are so generous that I could happily share mine with someone. But you can count on finding roast chicken, burgers, and traditional pies. Be prepared that the shop is quite small and not really suited for lingering over your meal, with only a couple of tables outside, so you might find it more enjoyable to go for takeaway instead.
Standard cod fish and chips — £15.50
Whenever I pass by Kennedy's, I can’t resist grabbing a delicious, flaky apple pie. Because yes, this place is a local haven for pies, but they also have a solid reputation for serving prime catches from the British coast. The chalkboard menu reflects this legacy with a delightful array of treasures, and I have to say, their fish and chips is a standout! You won't find any frozen produce here — only the freshest cod, haddock, or plaice, traditionally battered and paired with chips that are hand-cut and fried from an excellent selection of potatoes.
While many opt for takeaway, I love to relish the experience on-site, surrounded by a lovely setting with glossy tiles on the walls and chandeliers that dangle gracefully from the ceiling, evoking a nostalgic vibe of days gone by. And importantly, despite the steady flow of customers, everything is clean and well-kept.
Regular haddock fish and chips — £13.95
The name itself should give you a hint that we’re in for a fancier take on humble fish and chips. While some might debate such an approach, it’s exactly what I love about this place. The shop will easily catch your eye with a line snaking out the door, and what I mean is — do yourself a favor and make a reservation.
Inside, it’s small and cozy, with an adorable decor featuring framed watercolor images of sea creatures. The menu is spot on, showcasing sustainably sourced fish and great flexibility for different dietary preferences. Your chippy comes paired with mushy peas, tartar sauce, and a choice of curry or gravy — impeccably crafted and elegantly served on branded paper. There’s a vegetarian version with halloumi and a vegan one with tofish. Cornish crab on toast and mussels in white wine are both big hits as well, and their Afternoon Sea (yes, you guessed the allusion) sounds indulgent.
Mayfair Classic fish and chips — £23.95
American in style and British at heart, Golden Union is a great spot for an after-shopping bite in Soho. To me, the no-frills vibe feels straight out of a road trip movie, with gleaming white tile walls reflecting vibrant neon signage and a free jukebox adding a fun touch that seamlessly fits the atmosphere. What's important, the team is committed to sustainable practices, sourcing local produce and taking significant steps in recycling and composting.
The star of the show is definitely fish & chips, which come in a tempting variety. But I find myself returning to the classic haddock, perfectly cooked and served with piping hot hand-cut chips and tartare sauce. Add a craft IPA, and you have an unbeatable combo in my book. Otherwise, you can opt for pollock, fishcakes, scampi, king prawns, or plant-based substitutes. And don’t overlook Golden Union’s homemade pies, featuring prime ingredients like organic beef and free-range chicken.
Haddock fish and chips — £17.95
Unearthing a genuine hidden gem always gets me excited to let others in on the secret. Fishers is exactly that kind of spot — a family-run shop tucked away in Fulham. It’s a lovely nook that fills up quickly, with soulful decor and charming details like flowers, marine-themed pictures, garlic strings, and fairy lights that give the place a cozy vibe.
I enjoyed snagging a small table on the terrace, with the glass façade behind, letting you sneak a peek inside. I can say the team put serious care into sourcing top-quality ingredients, from the oil they use to seafood itself, ensuring your chippy is as healthy and wholesome as it gets. You can choose from several types of fish, prepared in three different ways — traditional, steamed, or grilled — with the option to swap the usual chips for sweet potato fries or a salad. The dish is truly exquisite, with everything impeccably fresh, crisp, and tender precisely where it should be.
Cod fish and chips — £14.95