Brit & Chips
Fish and chips appeared during the mid 1800s during the Industrial Revolution. They have been the staple dish of the British since the 1860s when Joseph Malin, a Jewish immigrant, opened the first fish and ship restaurant in east London in 1963. Fish and chips were first introduced by sephardic Jews and had already existed for a long time amongst them. It is now a fast-food favorite in England and there are now more than 10 000 fish and chips shops in the United Kingdom. This meal has conquered the hearts of many cities throughout the years, including Montreal.
During our small trip to Montreal this March, we decided to visit the restaurant, Brit & Chips located at 433 McGill Street in Montreal. Right in the middle of a full-service restaurant and a fast-food, is this small hidden pearl. Warm and cozy is the first impression you get when walking in. A small and intimate place where everyone can enjoy their food together.
“The oil is in the airrr”
When we arrived at the restaurant, we were told to sit where we’d like by our waitress. The service was great. Quick and effective. The waitress took our order and no more than 10 minutes later, our food arrived. The menu combines the traditional food of the Brits, as well as a touch of Montreal’s diverse cuisine. This small, and intimate shop mainly serves fish and chips, but also many different and variated meals. For the fish and chips, many options are offered. Including haddock, salmon and cod. They also offer “Kebab Chips”, “Chicken Chips”, “Nibles” of many and every kind, and salads. They have a kid’s menu to accommodate all big and small families. A varied selection of beer is also offered, of course. Wine, sodas, and shooters are also available. And for the brave customers, they also offer a finger-licking good dessert menu. We decided to taste the haddock fish and chip, with a side of mushy peas. Haddock is one of the most common fish used for fish and chips is England. Cod is also another favorite. Fish and chips also usually have an accompaniment on the side and mushy peas are popular which is why we choose it. The fish was fresh and tender, the fries, warm and crispy, and the mushy peas were perfectly balanced in flavor. I am no chef, but I can say this meal was excellent. Price range, for two pieces of fish, an okay amount of fries and a sauce-size amount of mushy peas, this meal cost about 32$. In the current economy, and considering the quality of the food, I would say you pay for a little more than what you get.
Overall...
This restaurant offers a great experience overall. The food, prices, and vibes are all factors to consider and I would recommend this restaurant to anyone who likes the taste of British cuisine.
Haddock fish and chip with mushy peas
Justine Ouimet & Sofia Limoges
