Fish, Chips & a Side of Nostalgia

We bet if we say “fish and chips,” every one of you can instantly picture that place—the one with the golden batter, the vinegar-soaked chips, and a memory that still makes you smile. Whether it was a family tradition, a Friday-night ritual, or a quick lunch on the go, fish and chips has earned its spot as one of South Africa’s most beloved comfort meals. But where did it come from, and how did we make it our own?

Nostalgia in a takeaway box…

Whether we like it or not, South Africa used to be a British colony, and thus we have many British culinary traditions that we have made our own.

Fish and chips, a quintessential British dish. The dish consists of battered and fried fish, typically cod or haddock, accompanied by deep-fried potato chips. It emerged as a popular working-class meal during the Industrial Revolution, providing a cheap and nutritious option for factory workers.

An origin tale: Fish, meet chip.

The idea of fried fish came to Britain with Sephardic Jewish immigrants from Spain and Portugal in the 17th century. These communities brought with them a tradition of frying fish in a thin flour coating, known as “pescado frito.” Meanwhile, chips, or fried potato slices, appeared in Britain as early as the 18th century, possibly influenced by French or Belgian techniques.

Cheap, cheerful and comforting

Fish and chips flourished as a comforting, affordable food, especially during economic hardship. By the early 20th century, there were over 25,000 fish and chip shops in the UK.

Did you know: During both World Wars, fish and chips remained one of the few foods not rationed, cementing their place as a beloved national dish.

Swimming strong all the way

In South Africa, yellowtail or hake often replace cod, reflecting the local catch. While traditional methods remain popular, modern twists include lighter batters, healthier frying methods, and diverse accompaniments, from curry sauces to gourmet tartar.

Do it at home:

Yellowtail Fish and Chips

The what:

(For the Fish)

• 4 fillets of South African Yellowtail (200g each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold sparkling water
• 1 tablespoon malt vinegar
• Sunflower oil for frying

(For the Chips)

• 4 large potatoes (Russet or similar)
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• Sunflower oil for frying

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Homemade tartar sauce

The How:

Prepare the Chips:

• Peel and cut potatoes into thick chips.
• Soak in cold water with vinegar for 30 minutes.
• Drain and pat dry.
• Heat oil to 130°C in a deep fryer or pot.
• Fry chips for 5-6 minutes until soft but not browned.
• Remove and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Batter:

• In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
• Add cold sparkling water and vinegar. Mix gently until just combined

Top Tip: Some lumps are fine!

Fry the Fish:

• Heat oil to 180°C
• Pat the yellowtail fillets dry and lightly coat in flour.
• Dip each fillet in the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
• Fry in hot oil for about 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
• Drain on a wire rack over paper towels.

Finish the Chips:

• Increase oil temperature to 180°C (350°F).
• Fry the chips a second time until golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes).
• Season with salt.

Finally:

Plate the fish and chips, garnish with lemon wedges and serve with tartar sauce.

Wine pairing: If you want a glass of wine to go with your meal, try a South African Chenic Blanc.

Top Tip: Look for Chenin Blancs from Stellenbosch or Swartland, where the mineral backbone and slightly tropical flavours add depth to the meal.

A crisp, well-chilled South African Chenin Blanc is the perfect pairing for yellowtail Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the fried batter, while the fruity and citrus notes complement the light, flaky texture of the fish.

You’ll also not go wrong with a Sauvignon Blanc, with its grassy and citrus profile, also pairs well with this classic dish.

Don’t feel like home cooking tonight? Here’s a curated list of some of the best fish and chip takeaway spots across the country:

Johannesburg & Gauteng

Fish Hook (Darrenwood, Randburg)

A local favorite renowned for its crispy batter and generous portions. Owner Welman Son is celebrated for his warm hospitality, making each visit memorable.

Solly’s Corner (Fordsburg)

This iconic spot offers fish and chips with a South African twist, featuring masala seasoning. It’s a halal-friendly establishment with a rich history

The Fish and Chip Shop (Victoria Yards, Lorentzville)

Nestled within an arts hub, this eatery serves affordable and delicious fish and chips, making it a hidden gem in the city.

Tiberius Fish Emporium (Sandringham)

Offering kosher-certified fish and chips, Tiberius provides a slightly upscale experience with consistently fresh offerings.

MaxBox Fish and Chips (Sophiatown)

Known for its affordability, MaxBox delivers hearty portions of fish and chips, making it a go-to for budget-conscious diners.

The Streatery (Lifestyle Garden Centre, Randburg)

Set in a pleasant garden environment, The Streatery offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy their well-prepared hake and chips.

Cape Town & Western Cape

Kalky’s (Kalk Bay Harbour)

An institution in Cape Town, Kalky’s is famed for its fresh, beer-battered fish and traditional slap chips, all served with a seaside view.

Fish on the Rocks (Hout Bay)

Located near the harbour, this spot offers a variety of seafood options, including seasonal yellowtail, in a casual setting with ocean vistas.

Lusitania Fisheries (Cape Town CBD)

A no-frills establishment popular among locals for its consistently good fish and chips, often with a queue out the door.

Revelas Fisheries (Long Street, Cape Town)

This family-run shop is praised for its variety of fish options and friendly service, maintaining a loyal customer base over the years.

Ooskus Fisheries (Gordon’s Bay)

Known for its generous portions and fresh offerings, Ooskus is a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking quality fish and chips.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic takeaway or a sit-down meal with a view, South Africa’s fish and chip establishments offer something for every palate. We’ve made this pommie meal a true Mzansi favourite.