The Proper Fish & Chips Co.

Right, let’s talk about The Proper Fish & Chips Co. You know, the place that treats a battered cod like a religious artifact. They’ve basically declared war on the soggy, pale, sorrowful excuse for fish and chips that haunts most high streets.

Not Your Gran’s Greasy Spoon

First, the chips. These aren’t those anaemic, floppy fries that beg for ketchup. These are twice-cooked behemoths, crispy on the outside and fluffy enough to land a mattress. One bite and you’ll swear they were forged by dwarves in a volcano.

Then there’s the fish. We’re talking properly sourced cod or haddock, wrapped in a batter so light and bubbly it practically floats off the plate. I’m pretty sure they whisper calming affirmations to it before it hits the fryer.

The Science of the Perfect Crunch

Here’s a shocking truth: they use ale in the batter. That’s right—the fish gets a beery spa treatment before its hot oil baptism. The result is a crunch that echoes through the shop like a thunderclap of joy.

Surprisingly, they also have a secret weapon: vinegar. Not just any splash, but a proper, malt-based assault on your taste buds. You’ll need to sign a waiver promising not to weep with happiness.

Proper Fish & Chip Co. - Exmouth Food and Drink

Where the Magic Happens (and the Odor Doesn’t)

The best part? You don’t leave smelling like a deep-fat fryer’s armpit. Their ventilation system is so advanced it could filter a skunk’s apology. I actually hugged one of their waiters once—he smelled faintly of lemons and victory.

They also do mushy peas that aren’t radioactive green. They’re proper, lumpy, green-gold perfection. You’d eat them with a spoon if nobody was watching. I do.

The Quirky Bits

I asked the owner why they’re so obsessive. He said, “Because bad fish and chips is a crime against happiness.” Honestly, I think he might be a vigilante chef. Their napkins have jokes printed on them—bad ones, like “Why did the cod cross the road? To get to the Proper batter.” It’s adorable.

The Proper Fish & Chips Co., Honiton - Restaurant menu, prices and reviews

Fun fact: they once catered a wedding. The bride swapped the bouquet for a cone of chips. The groom applauded. That’s the kind of commitment we need.

Final Verdict

If you go, order the large. Trust me. You’ll look at the regular size and think, “Ha, that’s for a toddler with a modest appetite.” Their large is a samurai sword of a fish—heroic, borderline intimidating. Bring a friend. Or a grudge. You’ll be too full to care.

So, ignore the chain shops. The Proper Fish & Chips Co. is a pilgrimage for your mouth. Go. Eat. Worship the crunch. Your taste buds will send you a thank-you card made of pure, golden batter.