Eat local: Why Southend’s Kingfisher was named ‘Fish & Chip Shop of the Year’

Southend’s long-standing love affair with fish and chips is alive and well at Kingfisher Fish and Chips, a busy takeaway on Southchurch Road that continues to win over locals and visitors alike.

The shop was recently voted by locals as being the best in the city, in a competition run by the Echo.

As well as the freshly battered and cooked fish, customers rave about the large portions of BBQ ribs, chicken portions and “excellent value” meal deals.

Owner Dede Blini has said why he thinks the business is thriving: “Here at Kingfisher we put a big focus on customer satisfaction and value for money, especially as the cost of ingredients and supplies continues to rise.”

He added: “We’ve been trading for around 30 years here in Southend. We always do everything we can to ensure our customers get the best quality food, served by a friendly face – whether it be our freshly cooked fish, our popular BBQ ribs or our homemade curry sauce. We’re also proud to use local produce, getting our potatoes from a farm in Wakering.”

Behind the counter at Kingfisher Fish & Chips

The working day begins at 8am. Staff peel potatoes by hand, prepare fresh fish, heat the frying range, change oil, and carry out cleaning before the first customers arrive. Supplies are collected locally where possible, ensuring the food served is fresh and ready for the lunchtime and evening rush.

The shop opens daily at 12pm, closing at 9pm most days and a little earlier on Sundays. After serving, staff complete stock checks and finish cleaning late into the evening.

The store employs five staff members, that Dede describes as being a close-knit team who love serving customers.

Like many small businesses, Kingfisher is facing rising costs. The price of fish and potatoes has been especially difficult to balance, with Dede determined to keep meals affordable despite ongoing pressures from the cost of living.

What the customers say

Customer reviews highlight the mix of quality, value and service that sets Kingfisher apart:

• George Smith said: “Finally, some proper fish and chips! Since moving from Westcliff I’ve been searching for a decent local chippy and this is the one! No soggy batter or frozen chips here! Haddock and chips were the best I’ve had since moving here.”
• A long-term customer said: “I’ve been going here since I was very young and I could not recommend it more. The staff are so friendly and will always have a lovely chat, and the food is quick, hot and tastes amazing. If you are going to Southend and looking for cheap fish and chips, this is the place to go.”
• Sarah Gilbert said: “This is the best and cheapest fish and chip shop I have found in Southend, the staff are very friendly and the service is very fast… the only thing is, it’s very busy on a Friday and parking can be difficult. But the excellent food is worth it.”
• Another loyal customer added: “I love Kingfisher chippy. The staff are always very kind and friendly, serving with a smile. Food is always fresh and hot. Good prices too… We have been visiting here since 2015 and we will continue.”

The shop also proudly holds a five-star food hygiene rating.

Where to find Kingfisher Fish & Chips in Southend

• Location: 476 Southchurch Road, Southend-on-Sea SS1 2QA
• Free street parking available outside
• Five-star food hygiene rating

Kingfisher Fish & Chips Opening Hours

• Monday: 12pm – 9pm
• Tuesday: 12pm – 9pm
• Wednesday: 12pm – 9pm
• Thursday: 12pm – 9pm
• Friday: 12pm – 9pm
• Saturday: 12pm – 9pm
• Sunday: 1pm – 8pm