After an overnight flight and early afternoon arrival at our hotel, I scanned Trip Advisor for the highest-rated mid-priced eateries within walking distance of our Tower of London hotel. After an invigorating walk, we ended up outside Poppie’s, a sparkling-bright diner with costumed waitresses and old 45-rpm records nailed to the walls.
I trust Trip Advisor reviews more than any restaurant’s signage. That said, the people at Poppie’s are doing a great job of telling their story. Right out front, the sidewalk sign sums things up for passers-by:
Once inside, even the napkins remind you’re in for some award-winning fish and chips:
Some of those awards are for the food; others have been for Poppie’s marketing savvy — convincing thousands of customers to post rave reviews and photos on Facebook, Twitter, SnapChat, and TripAdvisor. Ultimately, the proof would be in the platter:
I’m happy to report the buzz around Poppie’s isn’t just hype. These aren’t your grandma’s frozen fish fingers; instead, Poppie’s pulls in fresh (and sustainable) fillets, batters them up while they’re still supple, and fries them up crisp and golden-brown. With a splash of vinegar and a little ketchup for dipping, these fish and chips are the real deal — the sort of fish and chips you hoped to get from that street-side vendor in London (who actually served you last week’s frozen mush, wrapped in greasy newspaper).
In London? Want fish and chips worth walking a few blocks for? Pop into Poppie’s.
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