Sheffield boasts one of Britain’s most ancient fish and chip establishments, and quite possibly the globe’s, with patrons frequently forming lengthy queues beyond its entrance.
Tracing its origins to no later than 1895, this traditional chippy on Sharrow Vale Road stands amongst the earliest establishments still dishing up meals today. Two Steps amusingly earned its moniker from neighbourhood residents during the Great War, when numerous fish and chip outlets sprouted locally, making it recognisable as the establishment requiring ‘two steps to get in’.
This amusing nickname swiftly became its official title, distinguishing it from rival establishments. Though believed to have first welcomed customers under James Boulton’s ownership, when it appeared in the 1895 trades directory as a ‘fried fish dealer’, according to The Star, reports.
Throughout the decades, this cherished establishment has passed through multiple owners, with Laggy currently at the helm for the past two decades.Before his tenure, the most enduring proprietors were Nan and Graham, who dedicated 34 years working behind the historic serving area.
Upon assuming control of the chippy, he sought to implement several crucial modifications, prioritising the procurement of premium-quality ingredients.Despite evolving fashions within the fish and chip industry, he informed The Star that he categorically declines to offer the notorious battered Mars Bar.
The owner said: “It ruins the oil, and I don’t agree with it anyway. It’s a heart attack on a plate.”
A recent patron described their visit as absolutely “fabulous”. They penned in a TripAdvisor review: “I travel a few miles to get to this chip shop. It has amazing staff, and the owner is fab. Will not swap this chip shop for any other.”
Another delighted customer revealed: “Have to say this place is by far the best chippy in town! I’ve been a regular visitor on Fridays for almost 20 years, and this place is often busy, with the queue stretching out the door, even in the rain. Well priced, and they don’t skimp on portions. I can rarely actually finish my tea. Good mix of all your chippy favourites.”
Following a trip to the historical establishment, one visitor declared it was “the best fish and chips by far”. They went on to say: “Very good quality, perfectly cooked and incredibly generous portion size. All items are competitively priced, and the staff service and management attitude in resolving any issues are impeccable.”
Pinpointing precisely which fish and chip shop holds the crown as Britain’s oldest proves rather tricky, with several renowned establishments battling for the honour. Among the contenders is Rock and Sole Plaice in Covent Garden, London, which boasts it launched in 1971 and maintains its status as the capital’s most veteran chippy, still dishing up its time-honoured recipes.
Meanwhile, another establishment literally adopted the moniker ‘The Oldest Fish and Chip Shop in the World’, located on Sandy Way in Yeadon, West Yorkshire. Nevertheless, it shuttered permanently in 2016, potentially elevating this Sheffield venue to claim the title as Britain’s most ancient surviving fish and chip establishment.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
