Billy's is one of those popular unpretentious chippies that we love. Situated just off a crossroads on the Norwich to Cottishall road (B1150) it most likely does more trade with locals in Old Catton and New Sprowston. However, there is a large car park at the side of the shop, should motorists want to pull over for something to eat.
A sign in the car park states that any non-customers using a parking space will be charged £50 for the privilege. You have been warned!
Fish on offer at Billy's includes cod, haddock, plaice and rock. The menu prices the fish as 'from...' (So for example plaice from £4.00). We are guessing the price depends on how big the fillets are cut.
When this Chip Fiend visited I got a good feeling about the shop as soon as I entered. I observed a framed cutting from the local paper demonstrating that the original owner Billy Wong (who sadly passed away in August 2018 aged 66) was a much-loved local character who is sadly missed.
There were portions of cod and plaice in the cabinet. The fish were suitably sized for a lunchtime treat.
This Fiend ordered fish, chips and a gherkin, open. The friendly service was impressive. A shallow, cardboard tray was lined with paper for the meal to be gently placed on top. Then some kitchen paper was produced as a napkin as well as a plastic fork.
My £6 meal was delicious. The generous amount of golden chips were cut to medium thickness.
The cod was served with its skin on (as seems typical of Norwich) and was wrapped in a tasty, crisp, orange coloured batter. (The plaice had a paler and more delicate looking batter).
The meaty chunk of cod in it's orange shell reminded me of fish that I had had several years ago from Chippy Sue's at Whittlsea on the Fens.
The gherkin made a good accompaniment. The sharp, vinegary bite helped the food go down. As did the half pint of Adnam's Ghost Ship that I sampled in The Woodman pub nearby.
Ratings out of 5:
Fish (cod): 4
Chips: 4
Gherkin: 3
Shop/service: 4
Over all: 4
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