Seemor
The Chippy by SpencerB+Worth Trying
77-79 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3RJ
· Restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (425 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Top-tier fresh-to-order fish and chips with generous portions and warm service; expect occasional grease inconsistency and takeaway-only setup.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
The Chippy by Spencer delivers excellent food quality with crisp batter and generous portions, backed by warm, attentive counter service and quick fresh-to-order turnaround. However, inconsistent chip execution during busy periods and a purely functional takeaway setting prevent grade A territory. Strong local reputation and loyal following make it a solid neighborhood favorite worth visiting.
Restaurant Summary
A small, central shop turning out fresh-to-order fish and chips that crackle when you open the box, this place feels warm and welcoming thanks to the hands-on owner and friendly team. Diners describe batter that stays crisp even after a walk or delivery, with portions that are properly generous. One visitor summed it up simply: "The fish was flaky inside with a light, crisp shell, and I could not finish the portion." Expect a takeaway-first setup with quick counter service and limited seating. The cooking sticks to classic chippy comforts with a few twists—think golden haddock, scampi, sausage suppers, and sides like curry sauce, plus wraps and sourdough pizzas. The culinary approach leans traditional and portion-driven: focused on freshness and texture rather than culinary theatrics. Most praise centers on crisp batter and moist fish; critical notes pop up on busy nights about greasy chips or underdone fritters, so timing can matter. Families are well catered for with kid-friendly staples like plain chips, chicken goujons, burgers, and Margherita pizza. There are several vegetarian and vegan choices (vegan burger, vegan pizza, vegan chicken wrap), but a recent reviewer says gluten-free batter is no longer offered despite older mentions. For picky eaters, stick to the simpler sides and pizzas; sharing a large fish supper with extra chips makes a budget-friendly family plan.
At a Glance
- Fresh-to-order fish with consistently crisp, light batter
- Generous portions and fair pricing for central location
- Warm, helpful counter team with flexible pickup timing
- Chips and fritters can be greasy or undercooked during rushes
- Gluten-free batter appears discontinued despite older mentions
What Sets It Apart
- fresh_to_order_frying
- house_made_tartare
- broad_vegan_veg_choices
- portion_size_options
What People Love
- That first crackle of crisp batter over moist haddock
- Hearty portions that satisfy serious hunger
- Friendly guidance on sauces and portion sizes
- Feeling looked after by the owner and crew
Points of Concern
- Occasional grease or undercooked chips reported at peak times; appears intermittent, not systemic
- Mixed experiences on some non-fish items (fritters, pizza) compared to standout haddock
- Older reviews cite gluten-free batter, but a recent visit reported it unavailable
- Review patterns show some templated owner replies; overall signals remain authentic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost£17-24 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair Battered Haddock (£9.50-11.50) with Mushy Peas (£1.50-2.75) and Chippy Sauce (£1.50-2.75)
- For vegans, choose Vegan Burger (£7.00-10.00) or Vegan Pizza (£10.00-13.50) with Plain Chips (£3.50-5.00)
Perfect For
- Grabbing a classic fish supper after a day of sightseeing
- A quick, filling takeaway before or after the pub
- Feeding a group at home with shareable portions
- Vegan diners seeking solid chip-shop alternatives
Location Insights
Area: Central Edinburgh street with a mix of indie eateries, pubs, and small shops; attracts locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked main corridor with evening footfall.
Nearby: Close to city centre hotels and bars; convenient for late-evening takeaway runs and pub-bound diners.
New TownNew Town is characterized by its Georgian architecture, upscale shops, and a lively dining scene that ranges from casual eateries to fine dining. The area attracts a diverse crowd including office workers, shoppers, and visitors exploring the city center, offering a mix of traditional Scottish and international cuisines.
Broughton StreetBroughton Street is known for its trendy cafes, boutique shops, and a growing number of independent restaurants and bars. It has a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, popular for casual dining and socializing, often frequented by locals seeking a less tourist-heavy experience.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:30–22:00
Tuesday16:30–22:00
Wednesday
Thursday16:30–22:00
Friday16:00–23:00
Saturday16:00–23:00
Sunday16:00–21:30
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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