The 7 Most Iconic Fish And Chips In London Right Now (2025 Guide)

Planning a trip to London in 2025? No culinary journey to the UK capital is complete without experiencing the quintessential British meal: a perfectly battered piece of fish alongside a generous serving of thick-cut chips. This dish is more than just food; it’s a cultural touchstone, a comforting, crispy, and flaky tradition that dates back to the 19th century and has roots in the Jewish immigrant communities of London.

As of late 2024 and heading into 2025, the London chippy scene is vibrant, offering everything from no-frills, traditional takeaways to upscale, Michelin-accredited dining rooms. Forget the stale, overcooked options; this is your definitive, up-to-date guide to the freshest, most iconic, and unique fish and chips experiences the city has to offer.

The Cultural Significance of London's National Dish

Fish and chips is often considered the national dish of the United Kingdom, and London is where its story truly took hold. The concept of frying fish "in the Jewish fashion" was popular in London as early as the 16th century, sold on the streets by Jewish immigrants. The pairing with chips, which became popular in the 19th century, cemented its status as a beloved working-class staple—a cheap, hot, and filling meal.

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Today, the legacy continues, with modern chippies battling to perfect the trifecta: crisp batter, flaky fish (typically sustainably sourced Cod or Haddock), and fluffy, golden chips. The choice of frying medium—traditional beef dripping for a richer flavour, or vegetable oil for a lighter, more inclusive option—remains a hot topic among purists.

The A-List of London's Best Fish and Chips Shops (2025 Edition)

These seven establishments represent the very best of London's current fish and chips scene, each offering a unique twist on the classic.

1. The Mayfair Chippy: The Michelin-Accredited Treat

If you’re looking for a luxurious take on the classic chippy experience, look no further than The Mayfair Chippy. This is a neighbourhood restaurant that has elevated the humble dish to fine-dining status.

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• The Accolades: It has been awarded a prestigious 1AA Rosette and has held Michelin Guide accreditation since opening in 2015, a rare achievement for a fish and chips spot.
• The Details: They are famous for their award-winning fish and chips, served with perfectly crisp, triple-cooked chips and homemade mushy peas.
• Unique Menu Entities: Beyond the classic Cod, Haddock, or Plaice, their extensive menu includes fresh oysters, crab, and mussels, making it a full seafood destination.

2. The Seashell of Lisson Grove: The Celebrity Favourite

A true classic of the London fish 'n' chip scene, The Seashell of Lisson Grove is a bona fide "chippy celebrity." This spot has been attracting stars and Hollywood royalty for years, cementing its status as a must-visit.

• The Star Power: The restaurant is famous for serving a host of high-profile celebrities, including Denzel Washington, Lady Gaga, Halle Berry, Liza Minelli, and Ed Sheeran.
• The Vibe: It offers both a traditional takeaway counter and a cool, modern dining area, providing a more formal experience than your average chippy.
• The Dish: Reviewers consistently praise the fantastically fresh fish and the moreish, proper chippy chips.

3. Golden Union: The Vegan-Friendly Retro Spot

Located near the bustling Oxford Street, Golden Union is a family-owned establishment with a charming retro decor, perfectly blending tradition with modern sensibilities.

• Modern Twist: Golden Union is a top choice for those seeking inclusivity, as they offer a delicious and very crispy vegan "Fish & Chips" option.
• Quality Commitment: They pride themselves on using Grade A East Anglian potatoes for their chips and pledge to use two types of oil, which is changed four times a week, ensuring a clean, fresh flavour.
• The Batter: Expect a beautifully puffy and light batter on their sustainably sourced haddock.

4. Oliver's Fish & Chips: The Matzo Meal & Deep-Fried Mars Bar Destination

A renowned restaurant in London, Oliver's in Belsize Park offers a unique take on the classic British dish by catering to a variety of dietary preferences and offering a famously indulgent dessert.

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• Unique Options: Patrons can choose between a classic batter or a unique Matzo meal coating for their fish. They also focus exclusively on white fish (Cod, Haddock, Plaice, Sea Bass, Salmon, Tuna) and avoid all meat products and shellfish.
• The Indulgence: For the adventurous, Oliver's is one of the few places in London where you can enjoy the ultimate sweet indulgence: a deep-fried Mars bar.
• The Service: All fish is cooked to order, ensuring maximum freshness and a crispy finish.

5. Sutton & Sons: The Trendy, Family-Run Local Gem

With multiple locations across East London, including Stoke Newington and Hackney Central, Sutton & Sons has established itself as one of the best family-run chippies in the city.

• The Signature: They are celebrated for their fresh, flaky fish, their "fat chips," and an excellent homemade tartar sauce that elevates the entire meal.
• The Vibe: It’s a trendy, vibrant spot that manages to maintain the traditional, authentic feel of a proper chippy while appealing to a modern London crowd.
• The Batter Secret: The family pays meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the batter is dehydrated to the "point of optimum crispness."

6. Rock & Sole Plaice: London's Oldest Chippy

For a true taste of history, Rock & Sole Plaice, located in Covent Garden, proudly claims the title of London’s oldest fish and chip restaurant.

• The History: Operating for over a century, dining here is an experience steeped in tradition, offering a connection to the dish’s long legacy in the capital.
• The Location: Its central location makes it a perfect pit stop for tourists and theatre-goers looking for an authentic, traditional meal.
• The Fish: As the name suggests, they specialise in Plaice, alongside the traditional Cod and Haddock.

7. North Sea Fish Restaurant: The Bloomsbury Classic

Located in Bloomsbury, the North Sea Fish Restaurant is consistently recommended by travel experts for its high quality and wide variety of fish and seafood.

• The Variety: While they serve an excellent classic fish and chips, they are known for offering a wider selection of seafood than many chippies, catering to diverse tastes.
• The Quality: Patrons praise the freshness of the fish and the option to have their fish and chips without the skin, a preference for many diners.
• The Atmosphere: It offers a comfortable, traditional restaurant setting, perfect for a relaxed dining experience after a day of sightseeing.

Essential Fish and Chips Entities and Side Dishes

To truly experience London's fish and chips culture, you need to know the key components and the essential sides that complete the meal. Mastering these terms will enhance your chippy experience.

• Cod vs. Haddock: Cod is the most popular choice, offering a mild, flaky white fish. Haddock is slightly sweeter with a firmer texture, and many purists prefer it.
• The Chips: In London, chips are not fries. They are thick-cut, chunky, and fluffy on the inside. Look for shops that specify using high-quality potatoes, like Golden Union's Grade A East Anglian spuds.
• Mushy Peas: A divisive but traditional side dish, these are marrowfat peas that have been boiled and mashed into a vibrant green purée. A must-try accompaniment.
• Curry Sauce: A popular, thick, and slightly sweet-and-sour sauce often poured over the chips.
• Salt and Vinegar: The essential seasoning. Don't be shy; douse your meal in both for the authentic takeaway experience.
• Frying Medium: The debate between beef dripping (traditional, richer flavour) and vegetable oil (lighter, more common) is ongoing. Shops like Golden Union use a blend of oils and change them frequently for optimum flavour.

Whether you opt for the celebrity glamour of The Seashell, the Michelin-rated excellence of The Mayfair Chippy, or the vegan-friendly option at Golden Union, London's fish and chips scene in 2025 is ready to deliver a crispy, delicious, and deeply satisfying meal that stands the test of time.