It’s a well-known fact that fish and chips tastes better when you’re sitting by the sea. Some say it’s because you can smell the ocean, but I like to think it’s because the constant fending off of ravenous seagulls makes me feel like I’m earning my meal. At Fish on the Rocks in Hout Bay, you’ll not only find bands of marauding seagulls, you’ll also find one of best fish and chip spots in Cape Town.

The Golden Fry Basket

The great thing about Hout Bay is that it’s a working harbour, with a thriving fishing industry. The harbour has a variety of fish coming in almost daily, and it comes straight off the boat and into the fryer. There are a couple of fish and chip shops scattered around the harbour and I’m sure each claims to do the best one. I’ve had a quite a few of them and they’re all good, but for me, Fish on the Rocks would take the Golden Fry Basket, if there was such an award.

What to look for in a Great Fish ‘n Chips

When it comes to great fish and chips, there are a couple of things to look out for. Firstly, the batter needs to thin and crispy. Don’t give me that thick, flour-caked gloop that feels like you’re eating an oily pillow. Secondly, the fish needs to be fresh and firm, because no one likes a mouthful of mushy fish. Thirdly, just because it’s fried in oil, doesn’t mean it needs to be oily. It must be fried at the correct temperature so that the batter is light and crispy. If the oil is not hot enough, you end up with a soggy oil field. Lastly, the chips, so many places make chips that are better for feeding seagulls than eating. Don’t ignore the chips; they make up 50% of the dish. They should be crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside unless they’re slap chips.

Thirdly, just because it’s fried in oil, doesn’t mean it needs to be oily. It must be fried at the correct temperature so that the batter is light and crispy. If the oil is not hot enough, you end up with a soggy oil field. Lastly, the chips, so many places make chips that are better for feeding seagulls than eating. Don’t ignore the chips; they make up 50% of the dish. They should be crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside unless they’re slap chips.

Get it while it’s hot at Fish on the Rocks

At Fish on the Rocks, you’re going to get all of the above, and you’re going to get it fast. It’s the first time in my life I’ve actually received my order before the card has even gone through. The outside seating is comfortable and dotted with retro looking umbrellas, complete with beady-eyed seagulls. As you tear into your packet you’ll notice the rich golden colour of the batter and a generous portion of crispy chips. From there it’s a perfect example of everything great about fish and chips – light, scrumptious and best enjoyed on a sunny day.

Find Fish on the Rocks at 1 Harbour Road, Hout Bay Harbour.
021 790 0001

fishontherocks.com