The Ridgeway Fish Bar

A long-established fish bar serving the Marshalswick area of St Albans, this is a proper traditional chippy with a genuine local reputation, having earned a Quality Award from the National Federation of Fish Friers. Regulars praise the freshly fried fish and the friendly counter service, and there are well-regarded gluten-free options that draw people from across the wider district. It is the kind of place that has quietly fed the neighbourhood for years.

Cooked to order, the star turn is a crisp Battered Cod with a generous helping of chips, while the Haddock and Chips runs it close for the purists. There is a nice vegetarian streak too, with battered Halloumi a popular choice, alongside the usual saveloys, pies and sausages for anyone after something a little different. Reviews are largely warm, with the occasional grumble about consistency, but the freshness and the careful frying keep a steady stream of customers coming back for an evening supper.