The UK has a particular love for fish and chips, with the origins of one of the nation’s favourite takeaways coming from London (though some argue that fish and chips originated in Scotland). It’s such a popular dish that, during World War Two, the government ensured that it wasn’t rationed.
Regardless of where the much-loved meal came from, there’s many amazing fish and chip shops dotted around Scotland’s seaside towns and villages, and many which have, quite rightly, won awards for their take on this traditional dish. From The Bay in Stonehaven to The Fish Works in Largs, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to chippies in Scotland.
One which is often queued out the door is The Anstruther Fish Bar located in, you guessed it, Anstruther in Fife.
This popular chippy is the winner of many awards including Fish and Chip Shop of the Year in 2008/09, Scotland's Takeaway of the Year in 2014 and listed in the UK Good Food Guide.
The Anstruther Fish Bar made the cut at this year’s Fry Magazine 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways and 10 Best Fish & Chip Restaurants lists.
As well as this, it counts Prince William, Hollywood legends Robert Duvall, Tom Hanks and Robert De Niro and Ally McCoist amongst its former customers. Plus, just this month, Spiderman himself, Tom Holland, visited the award-winning chippy.
Posting a picture of the star with the fish and chip shop staff on social media, the team wrote: “We were over the moon that Spider-Man star Tom Holland decided to swing in and try our fish and chips recently. Another Hollywood star ticked off our list. With great fish and chips comes great responsibility”
The Anstruther Fish Bar is located by the harbour in the picturesque fishing village, meaning it has beautiful sea views and, when the weather is good, customers can take their fish and chips to a nearby bench and enjoy their meal al fresco.
The chippy has been owned by the Smith family since 2003. Robert and Alison Smith, who are from St Monans, Fife, bought the business from Anstruther native Colin Cromar. Cromar went on to open Tailend Restaurant & Fish Bar on Leith Walk then Tailend in St Andrews before opening Cromars.
The Anstruther Fish Bar has a takeaway and restaurant, and cooks all their fish in a ‘secret-recipe crisp and light batter.’ There’s a catch of the day special and a kids menu for little chippy fans.
