Fish and chips—crispy, golden, and utterly delicious—are one of Britain’s most iconic meals. But beyond the crunchy batter and fluffy chips, there’s a fascinating history and a few quirky facts that even die-hard fans might not know. At Fish and Flame in Rhyl, we love celebrating this classic dish, and we think you’ll enjoy these five fun facts about fish and chips that might surprise you.

1. Fish and Chips Are Older Than You Think

While many people assume fish and chips became popular in the 20th century, the combination has been enjoyed in the UK since the 19th century. Fried fish was introduced to Britain by Jewish immigrants from Portugal and Spain, while chips—thick-cut fries—had already been a staple in northern England.

The first fish and chip shops, or “chippies,” began popping up in working-class neighborhoods in London and Northern England during the 1860s, providing affordable, hearty meals for families.

2. Cod and Haddock Are the Royal Favorites

When you think of fish and chips, you probably picture cod. But did you know haddock is also a top contender in the UK?

Cod is known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, while haddock has a slightly sweeter taste and firmer flesh. Many fish and chip shops—including ours in Rhyl—offer both, giving customers a choice based on their personal preference. Some people even debate which fish truly “reigns supreme,” making every order a little adventure!

3. Friday Is More Than Just the End of the Week

For many British families, Friday isn’t just the end of the workweek—it’s fish night. The tradition of eating fish on Fridays has roots in religious practices, particularly among Catholics, who historically avoided meat on Fridays. Over time, this evolved into a nationwide tradition of enjoying fish and chips to celebrate the end of the week.

At [Your Restaurant Name], our Friday specials continue this time-honored tradition, serving up fresh, crispy fish that locals look forward to every week.

4. Fish and Chips Once Went to Space

It might sound unbelievable, but fish and chips have even ventured beyond Earth. In 1991, a British astronaut enjoyed the iconic meal aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia during a mission. While chefs didn’t serve it with crispy batter in zero gravity, it proves that even in space, Brits crave this beloved dish!

5. Chips Were Once Sold Separately from Fish

Originally, vendors did not always sell “chips” and “fried fish” together. In the early days, vendors sold fried fish and fried potatoes as separate street foods. It wasn’t until enterprising shop owners began pairing them on one plate that fish and chips became the classic combination we know and love today.

Why Fish and Chips Are More Than Just a Meal

These fun facts show that fish and chips aren’t just comfort food—they’re a part of British history, culture, and even space exploration! At Fish and Flame in Rhyl, we celebrate every bite of this beloved dish, using fresh, locally sourced fish and hand-cut chips to ensure that our customers enjoy both taste and tradition.

Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or someone discovering fish and chips for the first time, there’s always something new to learn—and savor—about this iconic meal.