Following a simple question to News Shopper readers – where is the best place in south east London for fish and chips? – the community responded in droves.
A Facebook post has now racked up more than 150 comments and counting, showing just how passionate locals are about their favourite chippy.
Some names jumped out as clear favourites.
Time and again, Greenwich’s Golden Chippy featured highly, with comments from all corners of the area.
Sue Carlier said: “Golden Chippy in Greenwich.
Absolutely delicious” while Paul Cotton echoed: “Golden chippy – Greenwich.”
Donald Austen went so far as to add: “Golden Chippy 62 Greenwich High Rd.. voted the best chip shop in London a couple of years ago.”
Clearly, the crispy battered fish and chunky chips at Golden Chippy have left a lasting impression.
Brockley’s Rock was another shop repeatedly mentioned.
Pat Clarke simply commented: “Brockley Rock,” and Gary Smith added: “Brockley’s Rock, Brockley Road SE 4 is one of the best.”
Suzanne Boorman also chimed in: “Brockleys Rock Brockley.”
Whether it was the location on Brockley Road or the signature cooking style, fans seemed united that this shop is a must-try.
But while some shops enjoyed widespread acclaim, others received loyal backing from visitors who travel out of their way for a well-cooked fish supper.
Danny Peaston said: “Mr Chippy, Grove Park….” and Linda Mitchell pointed out another favourite: “Eltham Grill by passing place se”.
Over in Sidcup, Denise Angela simply wrote: “The Catch Sidcup”.
Others provided a tour of hidden gems spanning neighbourhoods.
Craig Evans listed several, commenting: “Golden Chippy, Greenwich, Brockley’s Rock, Jack The Chipper, Greenwich & The Millwall Cafe on Matchdays.”
Nostalgia and personal connection ran through many responses.
Mandy Conroy said: “Ferro’s Fish & Chips in West Wickham great food and lovely people,” showing how the experience behind the counter is as important as what’s on the plate.
Meanwhile, some readers had praise for less conventional fish shops, such as The Bull Shooters Hill who wrote: “Billingsgate wrap are by far the best in the south.!!! & you can catch him up at Blackheath right at the entrance of Greenwich park on a weekend and various locations throughout the week he visits The Bull Shootershill on a Wednesday evening.”
Several contributors made recommendations that spanned different boroughs and even the wider south east London area.
Samantha Cooper shared her full Top 5: “Something Fishy – Lewisham.
“Brockley’s Rock – Brockley.
“Elite Fish Bar – Bermondsey.
“Wicked Fish – Spitalfields.
“Chipping Wharf – Bow.”
For her, the competition went far beyond just one locality, and she encouraged chip lovers to try shops all over the city.
There were also votes for long-standing family-run fish bars like “Top Quality, Pickford Lane, Bexleyheath- the best !” according to Elizabeth Callaghan, and the “Village fish bar – Petts wood” which was included in Paul Cotton’s favourites.
What was clear from the hundreds of responses was how important fish and chips remain to south east Londoners.
Whether it’s for a quick Friday supper or a celebratory weekend treat, locals are never short on recommendations, and will passionately defend their chippy of choice.
