Fish Box, Whitby, North Yorkshire

 

This was a novelty. I’ve tried click and collect on a phone app before but not click in the shop! You can order at the counter at Fish Box but if there is also a touch screen to choose and pay for your order instead. The machine gives you a numbered ticket and staff call you to the counter when your meal is ready.

I chose a small haddock, chips, Irish curry and a pot of homemade tartare sauce. Despite the shop's compact size there are cafe tables inside but I got the full seaside experience by eating at a picnic table outside overlooking the estuary. I think it would be a bit noisy to sit in and eat due to the busy trade. On quieter days it would be fine.

The shop was doing excellent business so all the food was fresh and piping hot. The chips were a pale gold with a good, delicate bite. Firm and fluffy with a fresh potato taste.

The haddock came in a sensible lunchtime portion so I could enjoy it without feeling over-full. The batter was light and crisp; the fish was tender and moist. It came with its skin on, which was tasty.

Both of my sauces were delicious. The tartare sauce had been prepared on the premises. Well worth a try. It was packed with zing and made my tastebuds dance with joy!

Irish curry sauce is something of a rarity but the Chip Fiends have tried it a few times now whenever we find it and it has becoming a firm favourite. It has a depth of flavour that’s difficult to describe. The pepperiness of curry with an added vinegary sweetness. It certainly made a perfect dip for the lovely chips.

Ratings out of 5:

Fish (small haddock): 5
Chips: 5
Irish curry sauce: 5
Homemade tartare sauce: 5
Shop / service: 5
Over all: 5