If you look at Sutton and Sons, a veritable establishment on Stoke Newington High Street after nearly eight years in the area, and only see a fish and chip shop, you need to look again. They definitely serve fish and chips and it’s definitely some of the best we’ve tried in London, but that’s just scratching the surface.

Although there are two other branches in Islington and Hackney Central, trying Sutton and Sons is an essential Stoke Newington experience – this was the original. As well as the fish and chips – after a few sampling sessions, we’ve found an order of two regular cod plus a large chips to share is the ideal portion for two people – they serve a range of fish and seafood delights, from a lobster soup to a full seafood platter, served on a bed of ice, ranging from mussels to crab.

If you think you wouldn’t trust a chippy to give you a decent fish supper, think again. Using fish from their own fishmonger, there’s a huge range of fish dishes available ranging all the way from burgers to grilled fish, all cooked to perfection.

Following up with Mrs Sutton’s hearty sticky toffee pudding will cap off the “have I gone home and got mum to cook for me?” feeling. There’s a really homely vibe sitting inside on their relaxed wooden benches – it’s certainly a restaurant, but relaxed enough that you don’t need to feel like you can’t ask for extra tartar sauce.

Watching the open kitchen and seeing the hungry customers drop in to pick up their steaming fish and chips as you enjoy your food adds extra charm and solidifies the local feel that so many people love about Stokey. If you’re looking for a cosy, local vibe, look no further.

90 Stoke Newington High Street, London N16 7NY
www.suttonandsons.co.uk

Words: Victoria Gray