Fish and chips is a traditional British dish that originated in the mid-19th century. The practice of frying fish in batter was introduced to Britain by Jewish immigrants from Portugal and Spain in the 16th century. Meanwhile, chips (fried potatoes) became popular in Britain around the same time, inspired by French or Belgian methods of cooking potatoes.

The combination of fried fish and chips as a dish is believed to have first appeared in the 1860s, with both London and Lancashire claiming to be the birthplace of the first fish and chip shop. Joseph Malin, a Jewish immigrant, is often credited with opening one of the first fish and chip shops in London around 1860 and John Lees is credited with opening a Fish & Chips shop in Mossley, Lancashire. By the late 19th century, fish and chips had become a working-class staple due to its affordability and the availability of fresh fish from British ports. By 1910, there were over 25,000 Fish & Chips shops (often called “chippies”) across the country.

During World War I and World War II, fish and chips were one of the few foods not rationed, further cementing their place as a beloved British meal. Today, fish and chips remain an iconic British dish, enjoyed worldwide.

162 years later, Fish & Chips Reviews UK was established with one sole aim – to find the UK’s best Fish & Chips. You can read more about us, our mission, and how we review establishments on our About Us page.