Traditionally English with Fish, chips and mushy peas at Squires!
When Sir Walter Raleigh brought potato to England from the New World in the 17th century he did not expect the French to invent the fried potato chip, a Jew to open the first fish and chip shop in London by marring together “fish fried in the Jewish fashion” with chips in 1860 then get the Squires to market it in such a way that celebrities from all over world go to Braunton to enjoy it! Well, all these apparently happened and even though both Lancashire and London stake a claim to being the first to invent this famous meal – the famous meal is still making waves, especially in Braunton, near Barnstaple where Cherry and Michael Squires are carrying on the tradition in a unique Squires way.
When you arrive at Squires, you may be forgiven in thinking that you had arrived at Braunton’s Swankiest Wine Bar until you see a queue of keen diners waiting to be seated at the 130 seating restaurant or waiting for a take-away of their favourite fish and chips. As soon as you are seated and served, you begin to understand why Squires has been the choice fish and chips spot for Prime Ministers like John Major and stars like the Jacksons of Motown
fame, Davina McCall of Big Brother fame and Britain’s Strictly Come Dancing professional Camilla Allerup.
Cherry and Michael are hands-on at Squires but do not fail to involve all the young team they work with in the most efficient production cycle. Michael’s parents started the business 40 years ago (in 1969) before the former newsagent took over with his wife of 32 years Cherry. Michael was actually born in the place before it became Braunton’s famous traditional eatery!
Tried and tested verdict: Highly recommend and just before you think you can find another Squires somewhere else, thought we should let you know that Michael and Cherry have no intention of creating a chain. You will have to go to Braunton to taste it. Last orders is at 9.30pm
Facts
Squires Fish Restaurant
Exeter Road, Braunton, nr Barnstaple, EX33 2JL
Tel: 01271 815533
Map: Locate it here
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