"As soon as I stepped into Proper Fish, I was enveloped by the unmistakable atmosphere of a proper fish and chips shop. The sound of frying oil, the utensils designed for hand-held fish and chips, and the traditional newspaper for wrapping all pointed to a genuine experience. Coming in solo, I asked a waiter whether the owners were British, and I was playfully labeled a “British fish and chips connoisseur”—it's a term I’ve become quite familiar with in my line of work. After some thought, I embraced the title and responded affirmatively, which led to excellent service throughout my visit.
I observed the kitchen staff going through the same steps I perform daily: coating the fish in flour, dipping it in batter while letting the excess drip off, and placing it skillfully into the fryer to maximize the number of fish being cooked. The chef was impressive, working quickly with his hands while wearing gloves—something I’m not brave enough to try!
The timing of the chips frying alongside was spot on. They served the fish and chips on trays lined with traditional newspaper, a nice homage to British culture that shows they understand their roots. Now, let’s talk about the mushy peas, which turned out to be my favorite part. They added a twist to the classic recipe by incorporating a minty aioli flavor, elevating the dish to a finer dining experience.
However, I found the tartar sauce to be a bit too creamy for my taste. I would have preferred more lemon and a bit more texture from the chunks. The fish itself was outstanding—properly drained, making it less greasy, and topped with just the right amount of salt. It captured all the essential flavors you’d hope for.
On the other hand, the chips could have used a bit more seasoning. While they were crispy and cooked well, they were only seasoned with salt. My boss often says, “never too much vinegar,” which I fully agree with. I wish they had tossed the chips in vinegar to bring out that signature flavor. Although there were jars of vinegar available for self-service, I have two concerns with this setup: 1. Tossing them provides an even coating that enhances the taste, and 2. For newcomers to fish and chips, how would they know that the chips should be drenched in vinegar?
In conclusion, this is my first Google review. I'm not sure if I have a future as a food critic, but for fish and chips, I'm more than willing to share my thoughts."
