The Laughing Halibut: Traditional British Fish & Chips in Westminster, London
The Laughing Halibut is a family‑run fish and chips restaurant in Westminster, London, known for serving traditional British fish and chips since the early 1980s. Located on Strutton Ground, just moments from Victoria Street, Westminster Cathedral, and St James’s Park, we’ve become a trusted favourite for locals, office workers, and visitors exploring central London.
Our mission has always been simple: serve freshly fried fish, crispy golden chips, and classic British comfort food with generous portions and warm service. For more than three decades, we’ve stayed true to that promise.
A Westminster Landmark With a Family Story
The Laughing Halibut began as a small family dream on a quiet pedestrian street near Victoria Station. Back then, Strutton Ground was lined with market stalls, local shops, and the daily rhythm of civil servants and commuters. Opening a fish and chips shop here felt natural — a place where people could enjoy authentic London fish and chips made fresh to order.
Over the years, the restaurant grew into a local landmark. Office workers from Victoria Street, police officers from nearby Scotland Yard, and tourists visiting Buckingham Palace all found their way to our door. Many customers have been returning for 10, 20, even 30 years, often bringing new generations with them.
What Makes Our Fish & Chips Special
We’ve built our reputation on consistency, freshness, and traditional cooking methods. Every plate reflects the values we started with:
• Fresh fish fried to order in crisp, golden batter
• Fluffy chips cooked throughout the day
• Classic British recipes passed down through generations
• Generous portions that offer real value
• Friendly, welcoming service for every guest
We don’t cut corners, and we don’t chase trends. We focus on doing one thing exceptionally well: proper fish and chips in the heart of Westminster.
Two Ways to Enjoy: Dine‑In or Takeaway
To serve the diverse flow of people in central London, The Laughing Halibut offers two distinct experiences:
Dine‑In
A sit‑down meal with larger portions, chips included with most dishes, and a relaxed, traditional British atmosphere. Perfect for lunch breaks, family meals, or a comforting dinner after exploring Westminster.
Takeaway
Fast, affordable, and ideal for people on the move. The takeaway menu features smaller, quick‑serve portions at lower prices — perfect for office workers and commuters.
Both menus are cooked fresh and reflect the same commitment to quality.
Our customers’ reviews from Google Maps
Customer
Was recommended this establishment by a native to the area. The friendly customer service and great hospitality were the first things that were…
Customer
Great fish & chips. Excellent friendly service. Tried the haddock. It was superb. Very lightly breaded. Chips were…
Customer
This place was great! My son and I ordered the large portion of fish and cheesy chips. The piece of fish was enormous! The lady…
Customer
Real fish & chips shop feeling. Small tables, big portions and great service. We popped in for a late lunch and…
Customer
Let me tell you a story. My wife loves fish and chips. Every time we get some, I ask her to rate it. So far, she always said that…
Yes.
We offer a Dine‑In Menu with larger portions and chips included with most meals, and a Takeaway Menu with smaller, faster, more affordable options.
Dine‑in meals include larger portions, chips with most dishes, table service, and VAT, which makes the price different from takeaway.
We are open Monday to Saturday for both dine‑in and takeaway.
We are closed on Sundays.
You’ll find us at 38 Strutton Ground, Westminster, London SW1P 2HR, just a short walk from St James’s Park, Victoria Street, and Westminster Cathedral.
Yes. All fish is freshly fried to order in traditional batter, and chips are cooked throughout the day to keep them crisp and fluffy.
Yes. We accept all major credit and debit cards.
Yes. We offer a Children’s Menu for guests under 10, including smaller portions of fish, nuggets, burgers, and chips.
Yes. We offer vegetarian burgers, spring rolls, chips & salad, onion rings, and other meat‑free options.
Some dishes may contain allergens such as fish, gluten, eggs, dairy, or soy.
Please inform a member of staff if you have any allergies or intolerances.
We operate on a walk‑in basis.
Due to our central location, tables move quickly.
