Marble Arch Fish & Chips — Restaurant in Saanich

This diner reminds me of 1970s-early 1980s diners in HK, the nostalgic feel similar to 香港八十系列 sitcom series in TVB. I had a feeling my mother took me here to eat when I was really young like over 3 decades ago because I recognized the decor like some strange lucid dream.

Anyway, there used to be HK style diners like this in Chinatown but over time they've disappeared. Those who don't understand the old school mom and pop style are at a generation loss as diners like this is the norm in my parent's generation.

Ordered the Wor Wonton which offers a generous amount of wontons which is amazing. Broth is there to flavor the BBQ pork, wontons, and vegetables; drinking it as standalone is too salty. Overall a very good value.

It's a very good thing my buddy reminded me to head to my bank ATM to withdraw cash as it's hardcore old school doesn't accept debit or credit. That's fine as that is Chinese tradition to avoid processing fees in POS terminals; those who don't understand that are boneheads and I don't recommend you to travel Asia period. Embarrassingly enough I'm a very plastic girl for a first generation Chinese Canadian citizen (yes, constantly admonished by my parents for not carrying cash; even my adorable biracial daughters carry more cash on hand than I do) and I do have my woes in the early 2000s in Chinatown needing to run 4 blocks to the nearest ATM to get cash for restaurants then. 🤣

Definitely will return for a quick budget...

Having a meal here is like stepping back in time of the classic rock & roll diner days. t's operated by a Chinese husband wife team. He's the cook & she serves. Decor is old fashioned, basic but clean. Menu displayed openly on the wall & also avaliable on a really old worn out paper menu encased in plastic. You get the feeling of nostalgia as you view it trying to decide what favours you especially if it's your first time here. Anyway there are all day breakfast choices, hamburgers, sandwiches, oysters, fish & chips, soups as well as chinese combination plates. A can't go wrong choice looking from all directions. I picked a combo that had chow mein accompanied with deep fried prawns. I was astonished that it looked plain with bits of chicken however the chow mein was a little too salty. Ordered coffee given 1 extra refill. You can't beat the old fashion prices though food portions are mediocre but enough to depart satisfied that I gurantee you. While sitting down you can observe the cook preparing your order since the kitchen is open concept. Don't expect high standards just plain inexpensive simple down to earth decent food. I have been in a few times and noticed place is popular with seniors probably price being a leading factor. Mornings seems to attract the construction crowd from nearby job sites for a quick coffee break. Wednesday special is 6 pcs of fish & chips for $7.49. In god we trust, they only accept...

I was hesitant at first, the area is in transition and the main building was a tired 1970’s strip mall across from a graffiti plaster shuttered mall of similar age but less fortunate. Alongside a laundromat, dog grooming studio and an ice cream shop here sat the Marble Arch Fish and Chips. As it turned out it was just what I was looking for. A mom and pop restaurant that has been in business for over 16 years. Nothing fancy but clean and authentic. These places are few and far between. I ordered two pieces of cod and chips, the portions were large and the chips hand cut. Typical battered fish not greasy and tasted very good. The price was about the same as a White Spot but the portions were larger. Cash only here at this retro restaurant. Various combo Chinese meals advertised on hand written sign. I would rather spend my money on a family operated restaurant than a corporate restaurant anytime. Thanks for the friendly service...