McDermott's Fish & Chips
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McDermott's Fish & Chips, nestled in the bustling Forestdale Shopping Centre of Croydon, has garnered a loyal following thanks to its consistently top-quality offerings. Many patrons, such as Claire and Simon, rave about the superb fish—crispy, golden batter encasing perfectly cooked fish—and hand-cut chips that ensure every bite is a delight. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by friendly staff who strive to provide excellent service, though some have noted inconsistencies in service quality, particularly from one specific waitress.
The menu features delightful options including classic fish with a side of complimentary pickles and bread, as well as an assortment of appealing desserts like Sticky Toffee Pudding. Diners appreciate the cleanliness of the restaurant and its facilities, which accommodate all guests, including those with disabilities.
While reviews highlight the high standards of food and service, some customers have experienced variability, especially regarding takeaway options. For those craving a traditional British culinary experience, McDermott's remains a solid choice for fish and chips in Croydon, with many agreeing it remains a staple worth revisiting.
Photos
Amenities & More
Service options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great dessert
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- Groups
Reviews for McDermott's Fish & Chips
Review highlights
Based on 876 reviewsMcDermott's Fish & Chips is generally praised for its consistently high-quality fish and chips, characterized by crispy batter and well-cooked, flavorful fish. Customers frequently mention the generous portions and complementary extras such as pickles and bread. The establishment is noted for maintaining cleanliness and offering a welcoming, friendly atmosphere, particularly praised for quick service. However, some patrons have expressed concerns about inconsistent customer service, specifically regarding staff attitude, which occasionally detracts from the overall experience. While long-time visitors commend the restaurant for upholding traditional standards, a few recent takeaway customers have observed a decline in food quality. Overall, McDermott's remains a favored spot for those seeking classic, well-prepared fish and chips in Croydon.
Been visiting here for many many years the fish and chips is superb, delicious not a mouth full ever left! Only complaint is the older waitress with dark hair who comes across quite rude, witnessed this several times when visiting.Bill bought before offering desert, told where we were to sit when several other empty tables , spoken to in a not welcoming manner, quite a few things I could write however the younger young waitresses are always lovely , polite and bend over backwards. I know other people who also after dining here have said the same thing about her! But if you want good fish and chips in a lovely clean restaurant I’d recommend .
Very delicious fish and chips, never disappointed at this place.
I ordered cod and a small portion of chips, it comes with complimentary pickles and bread and butter. The staff were very welcoming and friendly and the food was served quickly, our order arrived hot and not greasy, the fish was gorgeous and had crispy batter. The restaurant was clean and so was the toilet. The woman's bathroom had one cubicle it was large and accessible with hand rails and a low sink for wheelchair users. The price for my meal and drink was £18.36 but it was well worth the money I was full for hours. 10/10
I’ve been eating at McDermott’s for years, and was surprised to notice I had failed to leave a review sooner! Written by someone who probably eats too many fish and chips in too many locations: I reckon they’re some of the consistently best in the country. The batter is always crisp and crunchy, with perfectly cooked fish within, the chips are hand-cut, the staff are always friendly and you can even get London Pride in here for less than you’d pay at the pub! Always happy to call in, and even make an effort to visit.
This chip shop is definitely not what it used to be. I first ate there around 20 years ago when it was a real cut above the rest. I have no doubt they know what they are doing and can definitely pull it out the bag when they need to, but the last few times I have eaten there I have been unimpressed to say the least. I can only speak for takeaway, but whilst waiting for my food tonight, I noticed there was a difference between the chips they serve the dine in customers and the chips they serve takeaway customers. When they serve up a dine in portion, there is a lady that hand picks any double (maybe triple) cooked chips from the plate. She then re-arranges the chips on the plate by hand again. It was actually annoying to watch her unnecessarily touch nearly every chip on the plate without gloves, all whilst pottering around the kitchen and touching colleagues in between. Luckily the take away portions aren’t manhandled this way, but as a result you end up with some chips perfectly cooked, and others cooked to a complete crisp. (See photo). Fish was cooked ok, but they do vary in size, however there is one size and one price on the menu. It may have been coincidence but the fish on the three plates I witnessed being served to dine in customers were a lot bigger than the piece I was given. Service is snappy, no frills, but you do your own salt and vinegar and they don’t have onion vinegar. The portions of chips are very small compared to other local offerings. This doesn’t bother me too much as how many potatoes can one really eat? But I’m sure there a lot of people that would be disappointed with this amount of chips you get in a portion. Pies are run of the mill, pukka I think, can’t really go wrong there. I popped in on the off chance this evening, and don’t see myself going back any time soon. Disappointing.
The best fish and chips I know! Friendly staff. Well managed. If you haven't visited before, you are in for a treat! Highly recommend.
We dined in at McDermott’s Fish & Chips, and it was absolutely perfect! The fish was fresh, crispy, and cooked to perfection—easily the best in town. The service was friendly and efficient, making the whole experience even better. Highly recommend this place, and we’ll definitely be visiting again!
Hi If it's not the best fish and chips around here, I would love to know where it is, I have had a lovely meal every time I have been, and I have been going for years . Every time we go, we have had great fish and chips and would recommend it highly to anyone. The restaurant is always worth going to as the staff are very friendly service is very good and enjoy the atmosphere so if you want to have good fish and chips takeaway or in the restaurant I would recommend going here child friendly and kids meals are good value for your money
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Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday (Today) Closed
- Tuesday 04:00 PM - 08:00 PM
- Wednesday 04:00 PM - 08:00 PM
- Thursday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 04:00 PM - 08:00 PM
- Friday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 04:00 PM - 09:00 PM
- Saturday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 04:00 PM - 08:00 PM
- Sunday Closed
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