The Mayfair Chippy Arrives in Knightsbridge

Opening in 2015, this restaurant caters to the fish-lover’s every culinary whim, whether they’re coveting the signature battered fish and chips (with a side of mushy peas, of course), a burger of soft-shell crab with a spicy sriracha mayonnaise, or a perfectly prepared catch of the day – the menu is an ode to variety.

Such has been the success of The Mayfair Chippy, they have opened in nearby Knightsbridge (just opposite Harrods, conveniently). This new outpost is a multi-level dining experience, replete with a spacious light-filled upper room, as well as a stylish bar where you can sip Champagne and indulge in some of the finest Carlingford oysters – we are in Knightsbridge, after all.

When I arrived, it was bustling with customers looking to get a takeaway to enjoy in nearby Hyde Park, which incidentally is a great idea for a future visit. On this day, however, a table was required for a true fish-enthusiasts feast.

So, what shall I order?

TMC Prawn Toast

Homemade prawn toast is one of my all-time favourite starters, and it’s a rare treat to find something that impresses on such a visual level. Often, prawn toast is an overly fried affair with more bread than actual protein; thankfully, The Mayfair Chippy have ensured their unique version is one of the most satisfying and impressive prawn toast appetizers.

Four generously portioned ‘toasts’ are presented on the plate; succulent King prawns sandwiched together in a fried butter loaf with a delicious sesame breadcrumb crunch; it’s crispy on the outside while the encased prawn filling remains soft, with a delicate hint of sweetness. The spicy, Sriracha mayo is also the perfect accompaniment to this dish.

Coronation Chicken Fritters

The classic Coronation Chicken recipe has been reimagined into a heavenly crispy fritter. This iconic sandwich filling – invented for Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation in 1953 – has become a beloved recipe and a perennially popular sandwich go-to.

These fritters are decadently filled with the softest, shredded chicken in a creamy mayonnaise sauce with plenty of tang and spice from the curry seasoning. The outer crispy coating is golden brown and crunchy.

The little fritters are accompanied by a fruity mango chutney which adds a tantalising zingy note. Also, don’t forget to add a good squeeze of lime.

Fried cod, chips, mushy peas, tartar, and chip shop curry sauce

This is the dish that started it all for The Mayfair Chippy, and the one everyone comes back for: the ultimate fried fish and chips. What sets this meal apart is that the dish has been designed with the fish and chip connoisseur in mind: a thoughtful array of condiments – to please all palettes – comes as standard, including tartar and a choice of either chip shop curry sauce or HP gravy. As well as a classic side of homemade mushy peas, which is a must for any true fish and chip aficionado.

The centrepiece is the freshly fried cod which pleasingly takes over most of the plate – generosity is everything when it comes to fish and chips. The milky cod fillet is lightly encased in the golden, crispy batter. A mound of chips underneath the fish is satisfyingly plentiful, all delightfully fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside; with each crunchy morsel ceremoniously ‘dunked’ into the various trio of accompaniments. Just don’t forget a good sousing of malt vinegar to tie the whole dish together.

Grilled Market fish of the day… Sole with lemon, caper, and parsley butter

Luckily, my dining companion struck gold when he heard about the catch of the day: a beautifully piece of Sole in a light, lemon and parsley sauce – and honestly – what could be better? The zesty lemon sauce, with that salty hit of capers, works beautifully with the mellow sweet flavours of the Sole.

My suggestion – if you fancy the best of both worlds – is to order the classic fried fish, as well as the catch of the day so you and a friend can share and experience two exceptional dishes.

Sticky date pudding, toffee sauce, Madagascan vanilla gelato

A proper ‘pud’ done right is what every classic dessert-lover hopes for – these are the desserts of our childhood, after all (if, dear reader, you are of a certain age). The good news is that this is better than anything you would have been served at school dinners: here you’ll discover air-light sponge generously dotted with sticky, sweet dates and covered in an oozy hot toffee sauce. The creamy, cold vanilla gelato works so well with the warm sponge and toffee sauce. This sweet treat is truly an old school, please-all classic.

Valrhona milk chocolate mousse

Dessert-lovers will rejoice with this heavenly milk chocolate dessert. This densely, luscious mousse is rich, yet the smart use of milk chocolate means it’s never over-facing and far lighter than if dark chocolate has been used.

In addition, Valrhona is one of the world’s finest chocolatiers and this attention to detail – ensuring the quality is the best of the best – elevates every mouthful of this dessert.

Although this is not specifically meant for sharing, this is a perfect dessert for two, especially if you can only manage a few mouthfuls, and want to end the meal on a tantalisingly sweet note.

The Mayfair Chippy is perfect for…

The ultimate fish and chip treat, a seafood-lovers’ feast, relaxed lunchtime eats, food before/after visiting the museums along nearby Museum Row, relaxed date nights, take-away meals, Friday fish and chip suppers, and Caviar and Champagne treats.

Anything else to know…

The Mayfair Chippy have teamed up with Pieminister to launch a special pie for the autumn season. You’ll be able to order the exclusive ‘Moo & Oyster’ from both the Knightsbridge and Mayfair restaurants. The pie contains a delicious steak and crushed pea filling with a crispy Carlingford oyster and then topped with a rich HP gravy.

Where to find The Mayfair Chippy (Knightsbridge):

138 Brompton Road
London
SW3 1HY

Website:

https://www.mayfairchippy.com/

Nearest station:

Knightsbridge