Fish and chips are available everywhere in the UK, from pubs to restaurants, but the real deal is at your local chippery (fish and chip shop). And these specialised shops even outnumber McDonald’s across the UK!

If you’re on the hunt for the best place to try fish and chips, it’s all about asking the locals – they’ll guide you to the top spots. And when you step into one, leave your health concerns at the door – it’s all about indulging in some good ol’ comfort food.

Here’s what to order at a British Fish and Chip Shop:

1. Fish

Obviously, you can’t hit up a British fish and chip shop without trying the star of the show – the fish. Cod and haddock are most commonly found at chipperys, with cod being the pricier option and haddock the more wallet-friendly choice. Up north, especially in Scotland, haddock is the most popular.

The fish will be cooked coated in a batter giving it a light and airy texture.

Ordering is pretty straightforward – you can simply say “fish and chips, please” or specify the type of fish if you have a preference like “cod and chips please”. It’s also commonly referred to as a ‘fish supper’, with the term ‘supper’ referring to a meal that includes a main dish (fish) and a side (chips).

2. Salt and Vinegar

If there’s anything more British than fish and chips, it’s fish and chips covered in salt and vinegar.

It’s not just any vinegar it’s typically malt vinegar which has a slightly sweet and tangy flavour that perfectly balances the savoury salt. There’s a bit of contention about whether it’s the salt or the vinegar that should be added to the fish and chips first, but regardless of the order this really is the condiment you must-try during your first visit.

The vinegar is often provided in small bottles or dispensers at fish and chip shops, allowing you to add it according to your taste preferences.

3. Curry Sauce

The less known condiment against salt and vinegar, but equally as loved, is curry sauce.

As curry gained popularity in Britain post-WWII it even became a companion for hot chips. Curry sauce typically thick and smooth made from a blend of spices mixed with tomato sauce. If you’re not a fan of hot foods, don’t worry it’s not overly spicy like traditional Indian curry is and has a slightly sweet and tangy taste.

It’s typically sold warmed, in small plastic tubs or containers (similar to those used for ketchup and other sauces) making it easy for you to dip or drizzle over your chips.

4. Mushy Peas

You’ll find mushy peas on menus all across Britain, served alongside classic dishes like meat pies and roast dinners. Given their popularity, it’s no wonder that they’re also a staple at fish and chip shops.

These peas are cooked until soft and mashed which results in a creamy texture with a slightly earthy flavour. This makes them the perfect addition to your fish supper as they’re a refreshing contrast to the crispy and oily goodness of battered fish and chips.

Plus, being green vegetables, mushy peas add a touch of healthiness to your meal! 😉

5. Pickled Egg

Usually offered as a side or an extra, the pickled egg is an acquired taste that may not be for everyone.

These eggs are typically hard-boiled then soaked in a solution of vinegar, salt, and spices for several days to several weeks. This gives the eggs a tangy, salty and slightly sweet taste.

While their popularity varies across different regions of Britain, you will typically find pickled eggs displayed in jars near the counter or in the refrigerated section of shops that sell them.

If you’re looking to try something unique and nostalgic, be sure to add one to your list of must-try items!

6. Deep Fried Pizza

Here’s another quirky menu item: Deep fried pizza. Like the pickled egg I never even knew it existed until we struck up a conversation with some locals.

Essentially they take a basic pizza – you know, the kind straight from the freezer aisle, just tomato sauce and cheese, and they dunk it in batter before dropping it into the fryer. It’s the ultimate combination of textures, crispy and golden on the outside, yet gooey on the inside.

The shop we visited offered both ‘half’ and ‘full’ pizza options. My partner and I opted for the half-size, which was perfect for the two of us to share.

7. Chip Butty

A common snack you’ll find at a chippery is the chip butty, which is cherished by the British for its nostalgic charm.

This beloved British sandwich consists of hot chips sandwiched between two slices of buttered bread with a condiment like ketchup and brown sauce.

They’re typically enjoyed as a comforting treat on chilly Winter days.

8. Deep Fried Mars Bar

Now for dessert, and the deep-fried Mars bar is the ultimate indulgence. A Mars bar is coated in batter, then deep-fried until the exterior is golden and crispy – making the inside a warm and gooey mixture of chocolate, caramel, and nougat.

Unfortunately the deep fried Mars bar isn’t a staple in every fish and chip shop. However, being originally from Scotland, you’re more likely to find it at Scottish chipperies.

This treat has a bit of a cult following and are often sought out by food enthusiasts, so there’s a wealth of online resources detailing where to find them. If you’re planning a visit to London or Edinburgh and are eager to try one, I’ve found some guides that are helpful:

Where to find a Deep Fried Mars Bar in London

Where to find a Deep Fried Mars Bar in Edinburgh

From indulgent deep-fried treats to classic sides, there’s something for everyone at a British chippery. So when you’re visiting in the UK be sure to seek out a local fish and chip shop and taste some of their traditional and strange offerings.

Feature Image courtesy of  Bex Walton