When visiting London, indulging in classic fish and chips is practically a rite of passage. Like many tourists, the allure of crispy battered fish and golden chips was strong. However, after sampling my fair share of chips across various London eateries, including some unexpectedly average ones, I was ready for a truly authentic experience. That’s when I set my sights on Rock And Sole London, or more formally known as Rock & Sole Plaice, reputedly one of London’s oldest fish and chips establishments, serving customers since 1871.
Perhaps I should have explored beyond the standard fare on the menu during my visit. However, my slight disappointment may have been more influenced by the ambiance than the food itself. Let’s delve into my experience at this historic rock and sole london institution.
A Glimpse into History
Rock and Sole Plaice London exterior showcasing its historic charm.
Rock & Sole Plaice certainly knows how to make a first impression. The exterior proudly displays its heritage, boasting about its long-standing history right on the facade. This curb appeal immediately draws you in, promising a taste of traditional London.
Outdoor seating area at Rock and Sole Plaice London with space heaters.
Stepping closer, you’ll notice the outdoor seating area, equipped with covered picnic tables and space heaters. These are exclusively for dine-in customers, a clear distinction from the takeaway service also offered. Numerous signs reiterate this policy, likely a necessary measure to manage the flow between dine-in and takeaway, especially given the more economical takeaway pricing. It’s easy to imagine patrons attempting to utilize the dine-in seating with takeaway orders.
Upon entering, it becomes apparent that Rock & Sole Plaice operates as both a takeaway and a sit-down restaurant.
Initially, the main dining area seemed quite full, which wasn’t ideal as I was planning to dine in. And definitely not outdoors, given the typically brisk London weather.
Rock and Sole Plaice London's second room interior with bar and seating area.
I was then guided to an adjacent room, initially causing a moment of confusion until I realized it was part of the same establishment. The first room housed the takeaway counter, the kitchen, and a primary seating area that was indeed quite packed. The second room, located next door, featured a bar and additional seating. Interestingly, there was no internal connection between these two spaces. Staff members constantly moved between them via the front doors, carrying orders and supplies – a slightly unusual setup. This separation also contributed to periods where the dining area felt unattended.
This second room, while initially less crowded, soon filled up as well.
The décor in this second room was simple and functional, with hard surfaces contributing to a somewhat stark and cold atmosphere. And cold it truly was. It didn’t seem like there was any heating, and the frequent opening of the front doors certainly didn’t help to retain any warmth.
Admittedly, the uncomfortable chill significantly impacted my initial impression. However, determined to experience rock and sole london for myself, I persevered, took a seat, and placed my order.
Delving into the Food – Beyond Fish and Chips
Rock and Sole Plaice London menu page 1 showcasing fish and chips options.
As is my habit, I had thoroughly reviewed the menu online beforehand. However, upon arrival, I noticed some discrepancies. The first page presented the classic fish and chips selections, featuring cod, haddock, plaice, rock, skate, and sole, amongst others. It also included starters, cold sides like coleslaw and salad, and hot sides such as mushy peas and onion rings. Warm sauces like gravy, curry, and cheese sauce were also available.
Rock and Sole Plaice London menu page 2 highlighting desserts and other options.
The more significant changes were on the back of the menu. While savory pies and pasties remained, along with a limited selection of soft drinks, cider, and wine, the dessert offerings had shifted. Dessert is often a highlight of any meal for me, and I was specifically looking forward to trying spotted dick, which was listed on the online menu. Disappointingly, it was no longer available. Despite asking, my hopes were dashed – no spotted dick that day.
Sticky toffee pudding was still on offer, served with a choice of ice cream, custard, or cream. Having recently indulged in sticky toffee pudding multiple times during my London trip, I was experiencing a bit of dessert fatigue. However, the prospect of having it with custard (or perhaps both custard and cream!) was tempting enough for one last try.
However, upon ordering dessert at the end of my meal, I was informed that only ice cream was available. The idea of ice cream in the already frigid room was unappealing, despite my general love for ice cream, particularly with warm desserts. Reluctantly, I declined dessert altogether.
Individual condiment packets at Rock and Sole Plaice London.
The tables were pre-set with bottles of malt vinegar, individual packets of ketchup and mayonnaise, and salt and pepper shakers. I always find it interesting to see Heinz’s single-serving packaging variations in different countries. Why the squeeze packets elsewhere and the sometimes messy little foil packets in the US?
Starter portion of calamari at Rock and Sole Plaice London.
Deciding to diverge from the typical fish and chips, I opted for the fried calamari starter. Calamari is always a treat for me, and I anticipated a different style compared to the smaller, marinara-sauce-accompanied calamari common in the US.
The menu stated the starter portion included 6 pieces of calamari, and the entree 10. However, my plate arrived with 8 – a bonus? The starter portion is served with only a lemon wedge, but I also requested tartar sauce, an essential accompaniment in my book.
My calamari was presented in a cute little boat-shaped dish. The tartar sauce came in a plastic takeaway container. I initially assumed this was due to my off-menu request, but then noticed another diner receiving the same container with her standard fish and chips order. Curious.
The calamari itself was adequate. Large rings, substantial pieces, unlike the small appetizer rings often found in the US. Which, considering the portion size, was expected – 6 tiny rings wouldn’t constitute much of a starter. The calamari wasn’t rubbery or overly fishy; it was simply… fine.
The batter was thick and crispy, and well-seasoned. However, it was also very oily. Extremely oily. Even with the starter portion size, the oiliness became quite overwhelming.
Overall, the calamari was decently prepared, and I somewhat enjoyed it. However, it wasn’t something I’d order again.
The tartar sauce was… unusual. It was herby, smooth, and thinner than anticipated, resembling ranch dressing more than traditional tartar sauce. I questioned if I had been given a strange substitute due to my special request, but seeing it served to others confirmed it was the standard offering. It wasn’t unpleasant, just not the thick, pickle and caper-filled tartar sauce I typically expect. Ultimately, I created a more satisfying “secret sauce” by mixing the ketchup and mayonnaise available on the table. Oh well.
At £1 per calamari ring for the starter portion, it felt a tad overpriced.
In conclusion, my visit to Rock and Sole London was a mixed bag. While the historic setting and the concept of dining at one of London’s oldest fish and chip shops held appeal, the chilly ambiance and somewhat underwhelming food didn’t fully live up to expectations. Perhaps venturing beyond the calamari and trying their namesake fish dishes would yield a different experience.
