Few dishes are as quintessentially British as fish and chips. The golden-battered fish, served with chunky chips and a side of mushy peas, is a comfort food classic that has endured for generations. In London, there’s no shortage of great places to find this national treasure, from traditional chippies to modern takes on the dish. Here are the Top 10 Fish & Chip Restaurants in Central London, where you can enjoy this beloved British favorite at its finest.
1. Poppies Fish & Chips, Spitalfields
Step into Poppies, and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back to the 1950s, thanks to its retro decor and nostalgic charm. Founded by Pat ‘Pop’ Newland, who’s been frying fish for over six decades, this London institution is known for serving some of the crispiest and most flavorful fish and chips in the city. Cod and haddock are fresh, sustainably sourced, and fried to perfection in traditional beef dripping, giving the batter that perfect crunch.
Location: 6-8 Hanbury St, Spitalfields
Best for: Classic fish and chips with a side of retro nostalgia.
Don’t miss: The cod and chips paired with homemade tartar sauce and mushy peas.
2. The Golden Hind, Marylebone
A beloved Marylebone staple since 1914, The Golden Hind serves up some of the finest fish and chips in the area. With its no-frills approach, this restaurant offers battered cod and haddock that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The portions are generous, and the chips are thick-cut and fried to perfection. Its cozy, old-school atmosphere makes it a favorite for those who want authentic fish and chips in a relaxed setting.
Location: 73 Marylebone Ln, Marylebone
Best for: Traditional fish and chips in a casual, historic environment.
Don’t miss: The haddock and chips—perfectly crispy and served piping hot.
3. FishWorks, Covent Garden
For a more upscale take on fish and chips, head to FishWorks in Covent Garden, a spot that prides itself on serving fresh, sustainable seafood. While their menu features a variety of seafood delights, their fish and chips remains a standout, with beer-battered haddock served alongside chunky chips, mushy peas, and tartar sauce. The elegant brasserie setting adds a touch of refinement to this classic dish, making it an ideal place for both casual and special occasions.
Location: 2-4 Catherine St, Covent Garden.
Best for: Refined fish and chips in a stylish seafood brasserie.
Don’t miss: The beer-battered haddock and chips, served with all the traditional sides.
4. Kerbisher & Malt, Shepherd’s Bush
For a contemporary twist on fish and chips, Kerbisher & Malt focuses on sustainably sourced fish and freshly made ingredients. Their light, crispy batter and twice-fried chips make for a winning combination. They offer both traditional fried haddock and healthier baked fish options, all served in a clean, modern setting. With a variety of sides like pickles and sauces made in-house, this is a top spot for those seeking an updated take on the classic dish.
Location: 164 Shepherd’s Bush Rd, Hammersmith
Best for: Modern fish and chips with an emphasis on sustainability.
Don’t miss: The haddock and chips, complemented by homemade tartar sauce and pickled onions.
5. The Mayfair Chippy, Mayfair
If you’re looking for an elevated fish and chip experience, The Mayfair Chippy delivers just that. With a focus on British comfort food, their fish and chips are made from sustainably sourced cod, haddock, or sole and served with triple-cooked chips, mushy peas, tartar sauce, and even a side of curry sauce if you fancy. The restaurant’s stylish interiors give it a modern feel, but the food is rooted in traditional flavors that make it a standout for both locals and visitors.
Location: 14 N Audley St, Mayfair
Best for: Posh yet authentic fish and chips with a touch of British charm.
Don’t miss: The haddock and chips with a side of curry sauce for a British twist.
6. North Sea Fish Restaurant, Bloomsbury
A family-run favorite since 1977, North Sea Fish Restaurant is a cozy spot in Bloomsbury serving up fresh, traditional fish and chips. Their plaice, cod, and haddock are delivered daily from Billingsgate Market and fried to golden perfection. With a casual, welcoming vibe and generous portions, North Sea Fish Restaurant is the ideal place for a hearty meal. The chips are thick and crispy, and the fish is served with the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Location: 7-8 Leigh St, Bloomsbury
Best for: Classic fish and chips in a cozy, family-friendly environment.
Don’t miss: The plaice and chips for a fresh, perfectly fried treat.
7. Rock & Sole Plaice, Covent Garden
As one of the oldest fish and chip shops in London, Rock & Sole Plaice has been serving its classic fare since 1871. Located in the bustling area of Covent Garden, this shop is known for its massive portions of battered cod and haddock, served with chunky chips and all the traditional sides. The casual setting, both indoors and with outdoor seating, makes it perfect for a quick meal while exploring the city.
Location: 47 Endell St, Covent Garden
Best for: A classic fish and chip experience in the heart of Covent Garden.
Don’t miss: The haddock and chips, paired with a side of mushy peas.
8. Golden Union Fish Bar, Soho
Golden Union Fish Bar is a hidden gem in Soho, blending traditional chip shop vibes with a modern, urban twist. Their sustainably sourced fish is battered fresh to order, and the chips are hand-cut and fried to crispy perfection. Offering classic cod and haddock, alongside fish cakes and scampi, Golden Union is a great option for a casual meal in central London. The relaxed, diner-style interiors add a fun touch to the dining experience.
Location: 38 Poland St, Soho
Best for: No-nonsense, fresh fish and chips in a modern setting.
Don’t miss: The cod and chips, served with homemade tartar sauce and pickled eggs.
9. Bonnie Gull, Fitzrovia
For a more upscale, modern take on British seafood, Bonnie Gull in Fitzrovia offers a beautifully presented version of fish and chips. Their beer-battered haddock is crispy, light, and served with chunky, hand-cut chips, mushy peas, and tartar sauce. The restaurant’s cozy, nautical-inspired decor and focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood make it a great choice for those who want a more refined fish and chip experience.
Location: 21A Foley St, Fitzrovia
Best for: A chic, modern fish and chip dining experience.
Don’t miss: The beer-battered haddock, paired with one of their craft beers for a perfect pairing.
10. Seafresh, Victoria
Tucked away near Victoria Station, Seafresh is a longstanding favorite known for its high-quality fish and chips. Since 1965, Seafresh has been serving fresh, sustainably sourced fish, fried to perfection in a crispy, golden batter. Their menu includes a wide selection of cod, haddock, and plaice, as well as grilled fish options for a lighter meal. The generous portions and friendly service make it a go-to for both locals and visitors seeking a classic British fish and chip experience.
Location: 80-81 Wilton Rd, Victoria
Best for: Fresh, traditional fish and chips near Victoria Station.
Don’t miss: The plaice and chips—a crispy, flavorful take on a seafood classic.