I tried the chippy of my childhood which has been taken over by new owners – and not everyone is happy
Robson is a what’s on writer for Birmingham Live specialising in food and drink and shopping. He previously worked for Birmingham Mail and Birmingham Post covering the Commonwealth Games in 2022.
A large cod and chips (£11.35) at The Plaice fish barA large cod and chips (£11.35) at The Plaice fish bar(Image: Robson McCallister/BirminghamLive)
I’ve never walked into a fish and chip shop and compared it to a doctor’s waiting room.
But with no music, no atmosphere and no conversation, I felt a little nervous as I walked in.
I was in Hall Green, visiting The Plaice Fish Bar which has recently been taken over by new owners.
I’m no stranger to this chippy, having visited for more than 20 years and always thought the food and service was fine.
Read More: Full list of the cleanest fish and chip shops in Birmingham
It’s been pretty famous in the local community though, with queues out the door I remember from my childhood.
The reason behind my visit was because the chippy has recently been taken over by new owners and not everyone is happy about the change.
The atmosphere inside The Plaice was non-existent (Image: Robson McCallister/BirminghamLive)
I noticed negative reviews towards the end of last year and thought nothing more. Perhaps it was just teething issues?
But as months progressed, it looked like more and more loyal customers were turning away from The Plaice and to new fish and chip shops.
On Google Reviews, a customer identified as Alison said: “Fourth visit since under new management. Unlikely to return, but we gave them the benefit of the doubt.
“The chips were different (either different potatoes or different oil) and not great.
“It’s such a shame as previously, and for many years it was the best chip shop for miles and we were regular visitors.
“Sad to say that we are unlikely to visit for a fifth time.”
The Plaice in Hall Green changed owners last year and the neighbourhood is divided(Image: Robson McCallister/BirminghamLive)
Another reviewer under the name Donna said: “First time I’ve been since new management.
“I’m not one to leave reviews but honestly felt so disappointed with our food tonight.
“Chips were barely warm, mushy peas a very odd colour as if heated several times, and my husband had a pie which was lukewarm.
“Such a shame as the previous owners worked so hard to serve great food and it used to be spotless in there.”
And a different guest named Regina commented: “Under new management and the chips are dreadful.
“Undercooked, soaking in oil and full of black bits.
“We had been going to The Plaice for over 20 years. We are looking for a new chip shop.”
Having visited The Plaice under the previous owners, I wondered if reviewers had cod-tinted glasses on when they typed away.
My memories of The Plaice were fine, it wasn’t terrible, but it certainly wasn’t memorable.
And so far, under new ownership, my own criticism was the atmosphere.
A large haddock and chips (£9.99) at The Plaice fish bar (Image: Robson McCallister/BirminghamLive)
The previous owners would have a queue out the door and seemed to know everyone. That friendly warmth and hospitality seems to feel like a loss in the shop.
Over to the menu. I ordered a large haddock and chips (£9.99) for me and a large cod and chips (£11.35) for my friend Tom.
After a short wait, we soon tucked in and the fish was much better than I expected.
The clue was there when staff prepared the fish only after I placed it.
Whilst it resulted in a longer wait, I’d rather wait for chunks of happiness than receive sad-looking batter from the hot counter.
Going in with minimal expectations, I was won over bite after bite and it didn’t take long before I devoured it.
In terms of the chips, I’d say they were fine. They weren’t as bad as I thought they would be from the reviews, but they weren’t perfect either.
It was just a normal chip. It wasn’t that fluffy, but it wasn’t overcooked either. They just seemed a bit lifeless.
The star of the show was the haddock. The fish itself was super soft, perfectly cooked and had the perfect batter-to-fish ratio.
And by the time I was finished, I noticed Tom had quietly devoured his dinner too.
Speaking about his meal, Tom said: “This is exactly what I think of when I want fish and chips.
“If people said it has gone downhill, it must have been amazing before.
“It’s great food and the classic British meal. I think some of the reviews might be because of the atmosphere, but there’s nothing wrong with my food.”
And it seems we’re not the only ones who enjoyed a meal in the neighbourhood.
A customer identified as Terry said: “This is the first time using this chippy, and my goodness, fantastic.
“I am a good few miles away, beats the chip shops near me. Keep going guys, I will be back for something different.”
A reviewer identified as Helen posted: “Just enjoyed the nicest fish & chips we’ve had in years.
“Always rated The Plaice anyway, but this was another level of good.
“Really fresh and delicious, great service too.”
And Joe added: “Loving the food, keep up the good work.”
I was a regular customer at Plaice for years before the old owners left, and I’ll keep coming back now it’s been taken over.
I know some locals are unhappy with the change but to me, the food actually tastes better.
Perhaps the new owners could just work on providing a bit of atmosphere and warming up to the community.
This review was independent, conducted at random and all food was paid for by the reporter.
You can find The Plaice at 266 Baldwins Lane, Birmingham, B28 0XB.