To understand my experience at this diner, I will have to start at the beginning, for it is a tale of disappointment and redemption... of sore muscles and beautiful photos... but most of all, of fish, and of chips.
I took a train from Hartlepool to Sunderland during my holiday in the UK. My destination was a Grotto that I had been told about from a friend, that has a restaurant and pub that is built into a cave wall. I got off at the Sunderland train station and headed over to the interchange to take the bus up the coast. I had planned to stop first at Souter Lighthouse, but by the time I got to Roker Park, I hit the stop button on the bus and got off immediately. From there I decided to hoof it the rest of the way up the coast, about 7 miles total.
As I walked up the coast I saw many beautiful sites, and took many pictures along the way. I stopped at Souter Lighthouse, and even got a chance to go up into the lighthouse. From there I continued my journey to Marsden Grotto, only to find out that it was closed. I had hoped to get some fish and chips and a pint when I got there, but alas, my journey had come to its end, and my stomach had nothing to show for it.
I hiked back about another mile because I had seen some things from the lighthouse that I had missed along the path. By this time the sun was setting and my stomach was rumbling. I finally got back on the bus and headed towards the city. I had seen a few fish and chips joints there, it was only a matter of which one I would choose.
Keep in mind, up until this point, I had never had true, authentic, English fish and chips. This coupled with the fact that I had just hiked 8 miles, as well as the disappointment of the Grotto that wasn't open for business, you can imagine that Minchella's was a site for sore eyes. (and hungry belly) I chose Minchella's because it looked so dazzling, all lit up in the dark. There was no inside diner, but they had tables and chairs setup in front so that I could enjoy my feast under the moonlight.
"Fish and chips, please. And a diet coke." She asked if I wanted some fried breaded bits on top of it, to which I was much obliged. I smothered everything in salt and vinegar, and began to destroy the chips, which were covering up the fried fish. They had given me a wooden utensil that somewhat represented a spork, and it seemed to do the trick. Finally, I had cleared a path through the chips and it was time to have my first bite of savory, delicious fish. It was everything I had dreamed of and more. Quite honestly, one of the most epic and memorable meals I have ever had in my life.
While I would encourage anyone to try and duplicate the adventure I had, even if you're not so adventurous, I would still have to highly recommend Minchella's for fish and chips in Sunderland. Despite the epic journey that brought me to this small food stand, they do fish and chips right, and I find it hard to believe I'll find anything better for the rest of my days.
The BEST ice creams and also the BEST fish and chips.
Staff very friendly even though they are kept constantly busy with orders.
They are along from the Dykelands car park and straight opposite the promenade at Seaburn, Sunderland.
A pure delight !
Phil and Carole Clements-Cork Washington, UK. April 2023
Best tasting fish and chips i had for years.
Beautiful fish and chips to enjoy by the beach, batter was crunchy and tasty, even the seagulls wanted a taste!
Blustery day, weather was well outclassed by the fish and chips though. Novel to see starlings after food instead of the usual sea gulls. Just had to give them a few scraps.
Always unreal tasty food and ice cream from here. I usually go for the cod Bites and chips or the vegan sausage and chips either with gravy. Ice creams are lovely too. Staff friendly and efficient. Perfect being right by the beach so can sit on the seats opposite with a view 😍
The fish and chips are fantastic.. yes, £10 but for a treat you can't go wrong with, minchella,s.. very friendly, well mannered staff.. ideal seating area aswell...oh after your fish and chips, grab a tub of ice cream.. it's delicious.. 10 out of 10 from me for this place..👍🍟🐟
Superb quality cod and chips!! Fresh, tasty, and amazing value for money especially given how enormous the portions are! They also serve ice cream and in Summer there’s little tables so you can sit outside.
No dedicated parking but there’s plenty just a stones throw away on the prom. My favourite eatery when I’m staying in Roker 😊
Highly recommended.
Despite it being quite busy and the queue growing quickly, the staff remained really friendly and efficient at getting everyone's food out (although we did end up missing an item but it wasn't an issue). Food tastes lovely and came out hot which was delightful on a very windy/cold day. Been in the past just for some ice cream as well and that's always really good too!
I just love their fish and chips!!! The only dish and chips for my family in the entire Sunderland...love minchellas
Best fish & chips and ice-cream in the North East. It isn't a trip to the beach without a trip to Minchella's. Love their Biscoff 99! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Really nice fish & chips ideally located opposite the beach and other amenities.. always come to Minchellas when we get time to come to the beach.
Thank you
Amazing place. I've had Fish, Sausage, fish cake, mince pie chips and everything gorgeous. Even the batter. Best fish shop in Sunderland.
Portion of curry chips not too large £4. Good chips and great to find a chip shop serving a curry chip with curry on the chips as the norm rather than by request
Great fish and chips. You won't be disappointed. All freshly made, crispy batter and non greasy chips. 😋!! Superb.
Other than a small inch long black hair (it had been fried so no problem) this was one of the best fish and chips I've had. The cod was so so fresh! And everything had been cooked in beef dripping (gods oil). Thankyou!
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