Guide to the best fish and chips in London

The Seashell of Lisson Grove, a cherished fish and chip establishment located in Central London, is renowned for its long-standing history. This culinary gem has mastered the preparation of crispy, golden fish and flawlessly cooked chips. Attracting both locals and tourists, its food has solidified its status as a beloved London fixture, and it's not uncommon to see celebrities such as Dua Lipa or Ed Sheeran pop in here for a snack.

This simple restaurant specialises in high-quality British fish and chips. It's only a short walk from Notting Hill Gate tube and Portobello Road Market, so it's the ideal spot to stop for lunch after rustling through the vintage goodies. They also offer a rotating gluten-free menu on certain days.

Two brothers opened this award-winning fish and chip shop in their quest to provide Londoners with some of the highest-quality fish and chips in the city. The fish served at this Muswell Hill eatery is as fresh as it gets and is caught only 24 hours before being served directly from the UK's fish docks. You can enjoy your food in-store or take it away.

Poppies have been serving iconic fish and chips to Londoners for years now. With multiple locations around the city, it's easier than ever to grab cod and chips on the go. Their batter is a decades-old recipe, and their fishmonger Salih prepares all the fish on-site. Make sure you order with a side of mushy peas and tartare sauce.

This retro fish and chip shop in Bloomsbury has been serving Londoners from its Holborn shop since 1968. It was opened by two brothers who have been serving classics like cod, chips and mushy peas ever since. Their menu is simple but has won them multiple awards over the years. They also offer the option to dine-in or takeaway.

This fish and chip shop in the heart of the vibrant Soho district serves traditional fish and chips alongside an entirely vegan menu. All the fish served here can be traced back to the boat that caught it, and everything is cooked fresh to order. They don't just serve fish and chips; they also have classic British favourites, such as pies, fish cakes and sausages. Their vegan 'fish' is an alternative to actual fish, which maintains its succulent, flaky texture.

Victoria Park Village is home to Fish House, a contemporary, independent fish and chip restaurant that serves a menu of traditional British classics as well as dishes with a modern twist, like fried fish tacos with tangy coleslaw. Their fish is ethically sourced and is served alongside a seasonal menu.

Renowned chef Tom Kerridge presents his unique version of a British classic at the opulent department store Harrods. The restaurant in the store's dining hall offers a gourmet version of fish and chips, crafted with top-quality, ethically sourced seafood. The fish are fried in a special gluten-free batter, and customers can select from a variety of luxurious extras, such as caviar.

Head to Marylebone Village to feast on traditional fish and chips from a spot that's been serving customers for over a hundred years. You can eat in their warm and welcoming restaurant or simply pick up your order to take away. They serve starters, mains and desserts, so make sure you arrive hungry.

Micky's Chippy is a legendary Dalston fish and chip shop serving traditional grub, think classic jumbo battered sausages, as well as things like hot seafood platters that come with whole-tail scampi, calamari, whitebait, prawns and more. The fish is always freshly-cooked, and  the chips are everything you'd expect from British chip shop chips; some are crispy, others dripping in grease, just as they should be.

People travel from all over the world to get a taste of the iconic fish and chips served at The Golden Chippy in Greenwich. They first opened their doors in 2005 and have since built up a loyal fanbase in leafy Greenwich. Enjoy fish cakes with a side of fluffy chips, or keep it classic with cod, mushy peas and tartare sauce.

This family-run fish and chip shop has been serving delicious fish and chips from their shop for almost 20 years. The menu has plenty to choose from, including vegan fish and chips that have been made from banana blossom marinated in seaweed and samphire before being fried in their own fluffy batter. The fish comes from day boats, so you know it's as fresh as it gets. 

When the popular Netflix show “Somebody Feed Phil” took a trip across the pond, renowned UK food critic Jay Rayner met host Phil Rosenthal not in some fancy Mayfair establishment, but on a bench, with a parcel of chips from Ken's Fish Bar in hand. That tells you all you really need to know about this Herne Hill chippy. It hasn't let TV fame derail it from its mission of frying the perfect spud, expertly battering your choice of fish, and just generally sticking to what they're so good at.

Opened in 1871, Rock and Sole Plaice is one of the oldest chip shops in the city. Today it attracts locals as well as those just visiting London. The dining room is simple with a traditional white tiled look, but outdoor tables are also available. The fish here is sustainable and carefully sourced. On the menu, there's fried fish, chips, pies, and vegetarian options.

In West Hampstead, the much-loved family-owned restaurant, Nautilus, has maintained its reputation as a go-to destination for top-tier fish and chips. The vibe is unpretentious, and the menu boasts a variety of timeless favourites, including a diverse selection of battered fish and a selection of salads. Additionally, options like chicken and sausages are on offer. To round off your meal, choose from a variety of beverages such as beer, house wine, or hot and soft drinks.

Fishcotheque might have a jazzy name, but it serves classic British comfort food. Fish is freshly delivered each day from Billingsgate Market and cooked up in this smart and cosy restaurant with a striking mosaic on the wall. The menu is all about typical chip shop food, including a legendary Scottish treat for dessert - the deep-fried Mars bar.

Independent chip shop Brockley's Rock is considered one of the best in the city. This local spot is popular for takeaways but also has an inviting dining room and some outside tables. Classic chip shop cuisine is served here, from battered and fried fish to fish cakes, grilled fish, and plenty of vegetarian and vegan alternatives.

Fishers in Fulham has been dishing up classic British cuisine since 1982. This popular chip shop serves food made with sustainably-sourced fish and local ingredients. Takeaways are available or you can dine in the sleek and contemporary restaurant. Classic battered fish is served as well as steamed or grilled choices.

Olley's Fish Experience in Herne Hill has a serious reputation for fish and chips. Takeaways are available but you can also eat in the large and bustling restaurant. There's a big choice of fresh fish, plus pies, kids' meals, and a gluten-free menu. The restaurant serves traditional food and a variety of beers and wines to go with it.

The Anchor in Bexley has attracted loads of attention on social media thanks to its outrageous portions and the huge range of fish and seafood served here. This is an informal and modern takeaway spot that many food influencers have called on. Burgers, sausages, and pies are available if fish isn't your thing. Most of the menu is halal and there are choices for gluten-free and vegetarian diners.

If you're on Broadway Market and have a hankering for fish and chips, Fintastic has you covered. They plate up all the classic fish and chip shop dishes, such as cod, chips and mushy peas, alongside saveloy, battered sausages and veggie options like battered halloumi.