The best fish and chips in Central London

Just off Piccadilly, Sael in St James's isn't your classic chippy, but it's serving one of the best takes on British fish and chips in Central London. Chef Sam Mills (ex-Pollen Street Social) cooks over a wood fire, giving each dish a subtle smokiness, including perfectly crisp Cornish fish served with golden potatoes. The marble-and-brass dining room feels elegant but relaxed, with a big central bar pouring cold pints for a fiver. 

Since 2008, Golden Union has been dishing up some of the finest fish and chips in Central London, with options like haddock, cod, pollock, and coley fried in a golden, crunchy batter and paired with hand-cut chips and house-made tartare sauce. There's a vegan take on the classic too, alongside nostalgic staples such as freshly baked pies, battered sausages, and hearty fish butties.

Rock and Sole Plaice has been around since the second half of the 19th century, making it one of the oldest fish and chip shops in Central London. Locals and out-of-towners alike frequent this classic chippy, sitting in the white-tiled interior or at one of the outdoor tables to enjoy sustainably sourced fish, chips, and pies. It's a simple but timeless recipe for success.

Poppies will feel instantly familiar to those who grew up in the UK, from the tang of salt and vinegar in the air to the oil sizzling in the fryer and the crunch of golden batter. Alongside the classic fish and chips, the menu features comforting British staples like pies. The Formica-tiled floor and the vintage black-and-white photos just add to the feeling of a Central London chippy plucked out of time.

Mayfair has a way of snazzing everything up and the humble chippy is no exception. The Mayfair Chippy takes inspiration from classic fish and chip shops, elevating the decor with eye-catching artwork. The British comfort food served here uses responsibly sourced seafood and is masterfully prepared to bring out its full flavour, accompanied by homemade sauces, gin, wines, and other signifiers of fine dining.

Hobson's Fish & Chips in Central London are family-run spots that put a fresh spin on traditional British dining, with smart tiled walls, cosy booths, and classic chequered floors. Whether eating in or grabbing a takeaway, guests can choose from sustainably sourced fish – battered or grilled – along with vegan alternatives and sides like mushy peas or pickled eggs.

The Golden Hind's enduring popularity speaks volumes. Serving some of the finest fish and chips in Central London for over 100 years and retaining its old-school charm through the decades, the classic chippy experience is elevated here with polished decor and an inviting ambience. Add in the outdoor seating, and this is a timeless spot to enjoy the beloved British staple.

The Clachan, a Grade II-listed Central London pub dating back to 1898, still showcases its Victorian character through ornate ironwork and intricate wood carvings. Guests can enjoy live sports, an extensive drinks list, and hearty pub staples, from classic fish and chips to the indulgent Ocean Fish & Chips with both haddock and breaded scampi.

Ben's Traditional Fish & Chips is a well-loved Central London chippy celebrated for its British fish and chips made with top-quality, sustainably sourced seafood delivered fresh each day from Billingsgate Market. With its authentic cooking style and warm, welcoming service, it's a reliable spot for a true taste of the classic chippy experience.

An old-school chippy launched back in 1958, The Fryer's Delight is regularly hailed as one of the best fish and chip shops in Central London – not just on account of its highly affordable menu of classic like scampi, chips, breaded cod, and saveloy, but also due to its delightfully odd branding, styling the founders as fearless defenders from a monstrous piece of battered fish. The Fryer's Delight counts the likes of Jamie Oliver and Joan Rivers among its patrons.

J Sheekey is one of Central London's most respected seafood restaurants and has been around for more than a century, so you'd be correct in assuming you can get fish and chips here. This restaurant is miles away from your classic fish and chip shop, however, offering a proper sit-down dining experience complete with elegant service and refined menu items. If you want the comfort of fish and chips with the sophistication of a fine dining establishment, this is the place.