Fish and chips were first served together as a meal in 1860, and were the only food in Britain not to be rationed during both world wars. The traditional flavours and smells of battered fish and deep fried chips sits firmly in all British peoples’ hit list of favourite food and childhood memories… With over 10,000 fish and chip shops in the UK, you’re truly spoilt for choice on finding THE one that becomes your favourite against all others.
To many, fish and chips represent the people of Yorkshire! During lockdown, Drakes Fisheries underwent a complete refurbishment and reopened with a new, stylish, light and beautifully atmospheric conservatory sat seamlessly behind their existing restaurant. As soon as you walk in you’ll see a cosy dining area you can enjoy as a big family, to drink cocktails with a group of friends in or even as a peaceful lunch spot for yourself. We found, it’s near impossible not to spend your whole evening here after the drinks are flowing and you’ve saved room for dessert.
This unique fish and chips restaurant has come out of lockdown with a bang! No longer a quick in and out for a chippy tea, although that is always an option! With it’s extensive alcohol and food menu, (keep an eye on the specials board), people of all ages can enjoy a leisurely and quality evening out. The conservatory in the evening becomes an intimate date night experience and don’t even get me started on the deserts which are totally suited to romantic sharing.
What could be more perfect than being served high quality Yorkshire fish and chips? Knowing they’re environmentally conscious! Drakes Fisheries are proud to support many of their local suppliers based in Yorkshire, and proud that their cod and haddock produce are sustainably sourced from the ice cold waters of the North Atlantic and Iceland, with a genuine commitment to to maintain a low carbon footprint and keep their food-miles down.
Besides their standard fish and chips options, Drakes specialise in their signature fish cakes and homemade sauces such as tartare sauce, chipotle mayo and a twist on a Marie Rose sauce. We chose the Seafood platter and were not disappointed. All beautifully presented, generous portions and a surprisingly extensive drinks menu, kept us all very happy to spend the entire evening here rather than moving on elsewhere which we’d originally intended.
Sara and her family pride themselves on supporting their local suppliers and our British farmers to guarantee serving traditional food with great value for money. They choose to cook in British reared beef dripping, a traditional Yorkshire method that results in zero wastage. Their potatoes are grown in Yorkshire, specially chosen by their suppliers and quality controlled before being dished up. As well they support Cross of York Fishmongers who are one of their main suppliers, and are famously known for their usage on Masterchef for their quality and taste.
If you can’t resist an offer on wine like we can’t, step into Drakes between 2-4pm on Sunday-Thursday for a bottle of house wine for £15 with two main courses.
So all we can say is, give it a go. We were really amazed at what a lovely job they’ve done not just physically making it a beautiful venue but we could see and appreciate the careful thought that has gone into extending their menu both for food and drink but committing to a level of quality and ethics in sourcing and supporting local wherever possible.
