A London tour guide who has spent years showing American visitors around the capital has revealed his top recommendations for the best fish and chips in the city. Will Hide, a Blue Badge tour guide, admitted that while nowhere in central London does the dish fantastically well, two establishments stand out: Poppies in Camden and Rock and Sole Plaice in Covent Garden.
American Tourists' Cravings
Will, who completed a demanding 18-month training course to earn his prestigious qualification, explained that Americans are his most frequent customers and they always crave fish and chips. He told the Times: "When it comes to food, everybody wants fish and chips. (My opinion? Nowhere in central London does them fantastically well, but Poppies in Camden or Rock and Sole Plaice in Covent Garden get the job done.)"
Other British Classics Gaining Popularity
Americans have also developed a taste for other British staples. Will noted that baked beans at breakfast are viewed with suspicion, but thanks to Instagram, Greggs sausage rolls are gaining a following across the pond. In pubs, sticky toffee pudding is always a hit.
However, some transatlantic differences persist. Will remarked that many Americans miss iced tea and are surprised it is not popular in the UK. He added: "No one can fathom the fact we don't put three tonnes of ice in each drink, which apparently is a right enshrined in the US constitution."
Common Blunders by American Tourists
This follows insights from American travel blogger Kalyn Franke, who has lived in the UK for 12 years and runs the Girl Gone London YouTube channel. She highlighted common mistakes made by her fellow countrymen in London, including buying paper tickets for the Tube instead of an Oyster card, relying solely on black cabs, and avoiding buses due to intimidation.
Kalyn recommended the 453 bus route as a cost-effective alternative to sightseeing buses, passing iconic attractions. She also warned against dining in tourist trap areas and emphasised that walking is often quicker. Like Will, she touched on fish and chips, noting the difference between pub versions and those from a dedicated chippy.
