I went to an iconic Leeds fish and chip shop to try the nation’s favourite dish

There’s nothing more comforting than a good old-fashioned fish and chips.

It’s a dish that is warm, filling, and always makes me fondly nostalgic of childhood trips to the beach or the local takeaway.

However, as a national staple and my personal favourite food, I can be especially critical of what makes great fish and chips. That’s why I decided to visit one of Yorkshire’s best-known fish and chip shops to see if its servings were really up to the plate.

The Wetherby Whaler has stood proud on Wetherby Market Place since 1989. In the 30 years since then, a lot has changed in the world, but the business is still buzzing with customers looking to satisfy their salty appetites. Some were heading to the Wetherby Whaler takeaway to pick up some fish and chips to eat out in the sun, while others, like us, were looking for a cosy dining experience in the restaurant next door.

What stands out the moment you head up the Wetherby Whaler stairs is the warm sea-infused smell of fish and chips which makes you salivate before you’re even sat down. The design is comfortable, with tables for twos, fours, and sixes lined along a carpeted room. Quirky decorations like classic books on shelves and pictures of fishermen bring a smile to your face and become small conversational points. Sticking to a traditional design, the Wetherby Whaler is a place that feels familiar even if you’ve never visited before.

I decided to try the regular haddock, a dish that most people come to the Wetherby Whaler for. The haddock was delightfully crispy on the outside with a lovely tenderness after the crunch, exactly what I wanted. The chips on the side meanwhile, were thick-cut, the perfect soft accessory to my fish. With mayo on the side, I found my main dish was a well-balanced take on fish and chips which tasted exactly like a great takeaway.

The haddock and chips comes to £15.65, more than I remember fish and chips ever used to cost, but cheaper compared to many other restaurants in the area. Each main comes with a free choice of Yorkshire Tea, freshly ground coffee, or fruit cordial, which I found was an innovative way to help customers get their money's worth. There is also a senior’s three-course deal and a kids’ menu too, and when I looked around and saw diners of all ages, I could see just how beneficial these inclusive options are.

My plus one tried the traditional jumbo sausage, which is priced slightly cheaper at £11.99. Served with mushy peas and chips, they found this a hearty meal that they really enjoyed. Like the fish and chips, it was simple but that’s what made it a great dinner. We didn’t come here for a Michelin-style meal where you’re not always even sure what you’re even eating. We wanted the food we’ve always loved, and the Wetherby Whaler excelled in that regard.

The Wetherby Whaler menu also features a host of classic dessert options like banana split, a black forest sundae, and a chocolate fudge cake. These sounded really appetising but we were way too full from our mains to try. Because of this, I’d say if you are going to visit the this restaurant, do so with an empty stomach so you have room to try as much as possible so you can try all the menu delights.

Now there is a Wetherby Whaler not just in Wetherby but in Guiseley, York, Wakefield, and more. The Wetherby Whaler is a business which sticks to tradition and this is why customers keep coming back. Our experience was wonderful with friendly yet professional service, a happy atmosphere filled with smiles, and of course fantastic food. All in all, I think I’ve found my new go-to fish and chip shop.

Factfile

Address: 18 Market Place, Wetherby

Telephone: 01937 582968

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs, 11.30am-8pm, Fri-Sat, 11:30am-8:30pm, Sun, 12pm-8pm

Website: https://wetherbywhaler.co.uk/

Scores

Food: 9/10

Value: 9/10

Atmosphere: 9/10

Service: 10/10