Fish and chips is a classic British dish that is popular across the world. Whether you prefer to chow down on this meal alongside a pint at a local pub or eat it at a seafood joint, there are several occasions where this tasty fried food is enjoyed. If you’re curious as to the origins of fish and chips and how this pair became so popular, check out the brief history outlined below.

The Origins of Fish & Chips

Despite being a British staple, the origin of fish and chips can be traced back to Portugal in the 16th-century. The area had a heavy Sephardic Jewish population; however, due to the persecution of Jewish people in the early 1500s, they fled and settled in England, where they introduced their cuisine. The common seafood dish “peshkado frito” consisted of white fish covered in flour and fried, and was a popular Sabbath dish because it didn’t require reheating and could be eaten cold. It wasn’t until the 19th-century that potatoes emerged as the essential side dish. 

The Dish Through the Ages

One of the first known fish and chip shops opened in London in the mid-1800s by a man named Joseph Malin. These stores began to open all over Britain; they were family-owned businesses and grew in popularity among industrial worker, as the dish was both convenient and filling. This continued through World War II, as neither fish nor potatoes were rationed during this period. 

Its Worldwide Spread

Today, fish and chips have become a prominent dish throughout the globe. In the UK, it’s customary to top the seafood and potato combination with salt and vinegar, and with a side of mushy peas. In the United States, it’s customary to include a side of tartar sauce and sometimes coleslaw. 

If the history of this popular dish is making you hungry, head to Lolo’s Seafood Shack in Manhattan. This seafood restaurant features a wide variety of authentic coastal and Caribbean-style dishes, including coconut shrimp, snow crab steam pots, conch fritters, and crispy fish sandwiches. Call (646) 649-3356 to make a reservation or visit their website to check out their menu.