Nestled in the heart of Caernarfon, Ainsworths chip shop is a shrine to the humble yet exalted British institution that is fish and chips. As I approach, the exterior exudes a nonchalant charm, a timeless confidence that whispers, “We’ve been here long before you, and we’ll be here long after.” And indeed, stepping inside feels like entering a sanctuary where the deep fryers are holy relics.
The menu is succinct, and why shouldn’t it be? This is not a place for the gastronomically fickle but for those seeking solace in crispy batter and golden chips. I opt for the traditional: cod and chips, with a side of mushy peas. The service is brisk, the staff performing their tasks with the efficiency and precision of seasoned artisans.
The cod arrives ensconced in its golden armour, the batter audibly crisp as my fork breaches its surface. Inside, the fish is a succulent counterpoint to its crunchy shell—fresh, flaky, and imbued with a mild sweetness that speaks to its quality. It’s a testament to the skill in the kitchen that the batter isn’t an overbearing oil-slicked jacket, but a light, crunchy enhancement that allows the cod to shine.
And then, the chips. Oh, the chips. They are a study in texture—crisp on the outside, fluffy within, with the perfect heft to stand up to a liberal dousing of malt vinegar. They are everything a chip should be: comforting, moreish, and imbued with a nostalgic familiarity that takes you back to seaside holidays and bracing coastal air.
The mushy peas, often a neglected afterthought, are here elevated to their rightful place as a vital supporting act. Bright and verdant, they provide a creamy, subtly sweet contrast that complements the richness of the fried fish and chips.
Ainsworths doesn’t trade in frills or gimmicks. There are no overwrought reinventions or convoluted culinary fusions here. Instead, it offers an unerring dedication to the classics, executed with a quiet mastery that leaves you sated and smiling. This chip shop is a beacon of British culinary heritage, reminding us all that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most profound.