Fish and Chips by the Sea
Published on 6 Aug 2024 by Amy GreenwoodLike tea and biscuits, sausage and mash, or strawberries and cream, fish and chips is one of Britain’s best-loved culinary double acts. This perfect combination of crispy batter and flaky fish, with a generous helping of chunky chips, a sprinkling of salt, a dollop of mushy peas, has become a traditional seaside staple. Whether enjoyed whilst walking along a seafront promenade, sheltering in the car from a sudden downpour, or on the beach with a glass of bubbly, there’s no denying that fish and chips by the sea is a holiday essential for many families. From bustling seaside resorts to coastal village hideaways, join us as we explore some of Wales’ most beloved chippies.
Sblash Fish Bar – Aberdaron
Run by local fisherman Steve, and his wife Natalie, Caban Psygod / Sblash Fish Bar sits in the heart of the Aberdaron, just yards from the sea. Eat in or takeaway at this little gem. They serve traditional fish and chips and homemade crab cakes, along with their famous locally caught lobster tails, lightly battered and served with a sweet chilli dip.
Generous portions, a beautiful setting and a genuine passion for what they serve, marks Sblash out as a cut above your average chippy.
Find it: Henblas, Aberdaron, Gwynedd, LL53 8BE
Chippy Dre-Sglod a Cod – Tremadog
Generally known as ‘Chippy Dre’ this fantastic little chip shop is a firm favourite with locals and regular visitors.
You’ll find Chippy Dre tucked away in the pretty little village of Tremadog. Just a mile from Porthmadog, but it’s well worth seeking out. Located in a charming double-fronted terraced shop with a couple of pavement tables out front, this has to be one of the prettiest fish and chip spots around. Serving all the traditional favourites along with milkshakes, slush and bubble tea, it’s sure to be a winner with the kids! Drive the two mins back to Porthmadog harbour to enjoy a classic fish ‘n’ supper by the sea.
Find it: 11-13 Church Street, Tremadog, LL49 9RA
Finney’s – Benllech
A top 10 finalist in the National Fish and Shop Awards 2024, Finney’s in Benllech is known for its great range of gluten-free options. As well as traditional fish and chips, Finney’s extensive menu includes homemade fishcakes, breaded scampi, potato scallops, sausage, pies, curries, burgers, wraps, kebabs, and a wide selection of sides. All fish and chips are fried in gluten free batter and there’s even a separate gluten free menu.
You’ll also find Finney’s in Amlwch.
Find it: The Square, Benllech, Anglesey, LL74 8SN
The Mermaid – Barmouth
Barmouth has everything you’d expect from a typical seaside resort. A seafront promenade, an amazing ice cream parlour, amusements, and even donkey rides. But that’s not all – Barmouth boasts one of the best chippies on the Welsh coast, The Mermaid.
With their motto ‘the old way is the best way’ The Mermaid serves traditional favourites. Cod in batter, onion rings and a cone of chips, along with fish cakes, cockles and mussels, and a variety of pies, fritters and more. They’re clearly doing something right because they recently celebrated their 60th anniversary. Yes, you heard that right, this award-winning coastal chippy has been in business since 1964 and remains just as popular as ever.
Find it: Jubilee Road, Barmouth, LL42 1LT
Ainsworth’s – Caernarfon
Ainswoth’s Fish and Chips has been a feature of Caernarfon town centre for almost 30 years. This family run takeaway has a great reputation and in recent years has been named amongst the UK’s 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways.
Known for generous portions, crispy batter and stand out mushy peas. Everything is cooked fresh to order so you will have to wait, but it’s worth it.
Find it: 41 Bridge St, Caernarfon, LL55 1AF
Scarlett’s – Rhosneigr
Scarlett’s don’t believe in messing with a good thing. They keep their classic fish ‘n’ chips just as they should be: fresh cut chips, a traditional batter and deliciously seasoned mushy peas. They also serve old favourites like scampi, fish cakes and onion rings. Just yards from Rhosneigr’s sandy beach, Scarlett’s is perfectly located for a sunset picnic.
You can also find Scarlett’s in Trearddur Bay.
Find it: Arfon House, High St, Rhosneigr, UK, LL64 5UQ