OpenGastronomico
2 Alfred St, Lincoln LN5 7QZ, United Kingdom
Welcome to Sign Of The Fish
Sign of the Fish serves up one of the most iconic dishes in the UK—fish and chips. With roots stretching back to 1899, this lively takeaway and casual dining spot holds its title as Lincoln's oldest chippy. Offering both a cozy 52-seater restaurant and an inviting outdoor courtyard, it's a nod to the past while embracing modern dining experiences. The ambiance carries a casual vibe perfect for solo diners, families, and groups, making it an essential stop for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the smell of freshly fried fish as you dig into hearty portions, made with a delightful light batter, and complemented by perfectly fluffy chips. This vintage eatery blends history with community, ensuring a memorable meal.
Welcome to Sign Of The Fish, a cherished institution in Lincoln that has been serving up delicious fish and chips since 1899. Our quirky takeaway and 52-seater restaurant, complete with an outdoor courtyard, offers a casual atmosphere perfect for families, groups, and solo diners alike. Enjoy a delightful selection of tea, coffee, and quick bites, whether you choose to dine in or take away. We're committed to accessibility and welcoming pets, making us the ideal spot for everyone. Experience a taste of history with our classic menu, all at a price range of £10–20. Come by, and let us serve you a plate of tradition today!Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Outdoor seating
Kerbside pickup
Delivery
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Great tea selection
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Coffee
Quick bite
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Counter service
Seating
Table service
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Customers rave about the friendly and attentive staff, who create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. The fish is consistently praised for its generous size and perfectly crunchy batter, a delightful contrast to the fluffy chips.
The setting, particularly the quaint outdoor area, enhances the dining experience, bringing a bit of charm to an already beloved local treasure. Those who enjoy a good cuppa will be thrilled with the excellent tea selection, pairing perfectly with a hearty plate of fish and chips. The chance to experience a piece of history while enjoying a classic meal is a unique aspect that keeps diners coming back for more.
Affordable pricing means that indulging in a delicious meal doesn't break the bank.
Most Disliked
Some diners mention that the upstairs seating area can feel cramped, especially during peak hours. While the atmosphere is charming, it may not accommodate larger groups comfortably if everyone opts to sit upstairs.
The thinner-cut chips, while crisp and delicious, may not meet the expectations of those looking for the traditional thick-cut version found in many chippies. A few patrons also note longer wait times during busy periods, which can be a downside for those looking for a quick bite. Additionally, the lack of a larger variety in kids' menu options has been pointed out, despite the existing choices being well-loved by children. However, these small issues rarely overshadow the overall positive experience at this historic establishment.
User Reviews
ye
yo e.
£10.30 for a lovely freshly cooked regular takeaway haddock and chips seems very reasonable. Plenty of places around the city of Lincoln to sit and enjoy it. Wooden knife and fork provided. I will be getting my lunch from here again.
SB
Steve B.
The oldest chippy in Lincoln! Great staff, excellent food. Whether sit in or take away, the food is outstanding! I enjoy sitting in the kitchen just thru the takeaway counter, just like my mom's kitchen!!
RR
Richard R.
What a lovely fish and chips shop in Lincoln with such friendly staff and decent size portions…
SD
Sue D.
We have had take away here and sat inside. The portion for take away are HUGE, upstairs a bit cramped but it doesn’t stop you enjoying the food, we had small fish and chips and it was more than enough. Lovely chunky fish. Staff very busy and friendly.
HD
Hey D.
Having been here a couple of times now, I would highly recommend this place. There’s a takeout area in the front and a restaurant area in the back and upstairs. The staff were lovely and the the food great. The haddock is a good size, covered in a light but still crunchy batter. The batter is amazing. The chips are cut slightly thinner than you normally find in a chippy but it lends to a good balance of fluffy potatoes and crisp edges. If this is the food that is sent out consistently then it would definitely be up there as one of my favourite chip shops so far.
SS
Suzanna S.
We recently visited ‘Sign of the Fish’ in Lincoln city centre and were thoroughly impressed! The regular-sized chips with cheese were absolutely delicious, perfectly cooked, and generously topped with melted cheese. The portion size was just right, and the service was friendly and efficient. We give it a solid 5 stars and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great chippy experience in Lincoln!
LW
Liam W.
I sat in the restaurant area. It is small and could fit at 6-7 people from what I could see. Despite its size, it had lovely atmosphere and was incredibly clean. The service was polite and personal. This may have been because I was the only one sat. The food hit a high standard and everything looked fresh. The fries were clearly different to normal takeaway fish and chip shops. In a good way though. All condiments provided with decent utensils. Definitely go here for a quite high class fish and chips. Don't bring too many people though.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Sign Of The Fish is one of the oldest fish and chip shops in the UK, serving delicious food since 1899. The blend of rich history and timeless recipes sets it apart.
The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, plus wheelchair-accessible options, making it convenient for everyone.
Yes, Sign Of The Fish offers a dedicated kids' menu with options like fishcake or sausage & chips, ensuring a tasty experience for younger guests.
Don't miss the classic haddock and chips or the special curry sauce. The fishcake and chips combo comes highly recommended as well.
Absolutely! Sign Of The Fish accepts reservations, so it’s wise to book ahead, especially during peak dining times.
Why visit Sign Of The Fish
Visiting Sign of the Fish is a must for anyone looking for an authentic taste of British culture. The rich history of the establishment, alongside the quality and taste of the food, make it a unique culinary destination. Heads up for lunch or dinner—getting there early may help avoid long wait times and ensure you snag the best seating.
Don't forget to try their tea selection, especially if you're a fan of British brews. The outdoor seating option is fantastic during warmer months, allowing diners to enjoy their meals in a refreshing atmosphere. Take it from frequent visitors—this isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in local history and community spirit. Whether you're alone or with family and friends, sharing a plate of delicious fish and chips here creates nostalgic moments that resonate long after your visit. Don't miss this long-standing treasure on your next trip to Lincoln!
