Despite its simplicity, it can be hard to get a decent, tasty and enjoyable fish and chips in this fair city of ours.  There is nothing worse than soggy greasy batter which leaves you feeling bloated and disappointed.  Fish Shack in Malahide I’m pleased to say is the remedy to this nauseous situation.

Living up to its name it has a nautical feel with both indoor and outdoor eating spaces. The latter I’ll certainly be returning to when Summer arrives.  The menu is of course seafood based. Prices range from about €7.50 for fish bites and from €12.50 to €18.50 for the specials. Those of a non seafaring aptitude are not completely forgotten. There’s a tasty sounding chicken salad for mains and sides which include corn on the cob €3 and Parmesan green beans and Serrano ham for €4.

Exterior – Image from Fish Shack website

Exterior – Image from Fish Shack website

For my first visit (there will be more) I kept it simple, fish and chips €13.50 and a carafe of Sauvignon Blanc €15.50.  They have about seven wines on the menu and all are available by the glass ranging from €6.50 to €8.50.  In terms of portion size I have to say it was extremely generous for the price. Three large pieces of fish and an ample serving of fries with a sea shell of delicious tartar sauce. Garnished with a slice of lemon, it was the perfect dish.

The tempura batter was crisp and fresh and seasoned with hints of chili and parsley. Our haddock was cooked perfect and remained white and fluffy inside its deep-fried case.  Put simply, it was everything I wanted for a simple but pleasurable lunch.  Without doubt, I will be back to Fish Shack to try out a few more dishes on the menu. If you find yourself in Malahide (its located on the Main Street just past the taxi rank), I do recommend you call in. They also have branches in Temple Bar and Sandycove.

Fish Shack Malahide

Fish Shack Malahide

Fish Shack Malahide

Fish Shack Malahide

Fish Shack Malahide