Fresco's Fish and Chips — Restaurant in Toronto

I recently visited a fish and chips place that caught my attention, thanks to its positive reviews and inviting ambiance. While overall, it was a decent experience, there were a few aspects that left something to be desired.

Upon arriving, my friends and I were disappointed to learn that the calamari, a dish we had been eager to try, was not available that day. Nevertheless, we decided to proceed and explore the other offerings on the menu. The haddock fish and chips we ordered were alright, but in all honesty, we have had better fish and chips elsewhere in town. The fish lacked that perfect crispness and freshness that we were hoping for, but it was still satisfying enough to satiate our cravings.

Despite the average fish and chips, the standout element of the meal was undoubtedly the fries and poutine. These were absolutely the best part of our dining experience. The fries were impeccably fresh and had a delightful crunch to them. The poutine, in particular, was exceptional, with rich gravy and perfectly melted cheese curds. It left us wanting more, and we couldn't help but keep going back for additional bites.

In terms of the atmosphere, the restaurant was relatively quiet during our visit, with no other patrons present. It was evident that we had arrived later in the day, which may have contributed to the lack of a bustling ambiance. However, the staff was attentive and friendly, ensuring that we had a pleasant dining experience.

While our first visit to this fish and chips place had its ups and downs, I believe there is potential for improvement. Although the haddock fish and chips were not exceptional, the outstanding fries and poutine gave us hope that the establishment could deliver on other fronts as well. I would recommend trying this place again, perhaps earlier in the day when the freshness and variety of options are at their peak.

Overall, this fish and chips place has the potential to be a top-notch dining spot. With some adjustments to the fish preparation and availability of menu items, they could become a go-to destination for fish and...

A great fish & chips shop in the heart of Kensington Market! My dad and I popped in for a late lunch, and we ordered the cod and the haddock + chips (they were sold out of the halibut) and both were excellent (washed down with a classic Coke, and cold Corona). Batter was noteworthy - crispy and light which was a great compliment to the fish - and cooked to perfection. We each tried one piece of fish with the “special crunchy coating,” which was more akin to a tempura batter and had crumbled kettle cooked chips in it for additional crunch. I’d say that’s a best-bet… it was very crunchy but not overkill at all (definitely ask for it!!!). The side slaw was creamy and tangy - they’re not reinventing the wheel on this one and I’m just fine with that (it was very good). Tartar sauce was tasty but frankly we enjoyed everything with a simple squeeze of lemon that accompanied the meals. Portion sizes are great, too - if you’re hungry the two pieces of fish and chips is sufficient, but I wasn’t starved so had half of the chips and one piece of fish, and my sweetheart gladly had my leftovers for dinner. Window seating is optimal to watch the colourful goings on of the neighbourhood (there’s also booths and tables inside and picnic tables outside… you could also take it to go and eat in the park across the street if that’s your jam). Another pair of diners were splitting the calamari and chips and it looked very good - I’d try it next time. The man working the counter I’d assume was the owner and he was lovely, welcoming, and helpful - the kinda person you’d imagine running the local chip shop. There was a steady stream of people coming in and out for food and he knew most of the folks (and they knew him) and it was the kinda vibe that makes you want to return over and over. And if you need a selfie before you leave, pose with the Beatles mural or memorabilia on all the walls - a real nod to UK...

Buckle up for my story:

I’ve been a few times and each time the food has been tasty … BUUUUT… after the experience I just had, I’m never going again. I called in to ask if they serve plaice (a fish that’s common in U.K. fish & chip shops). The guy I was speaking with said “yes, we have it. come”. I asked a couple more times to make sure he knew what I was talking about. After the call I searched their menu online and found no plaice on it so I called back and spoke with a different person who didn’t even know what plaice was (which is worrying, when working in a fish & chips shop!). At least he asked me to explain and when I did, I told him he should tell his co-worker that it’s really bad form to just say “yes, we have it.. come” when he clearly knows nothing about it. Instead of an apology or an acknowledgment he just hung up. Classy!

Unfortunately for them, there are loads of decent fish & chips shop and we, for one will never go back to Fresco’s despite the fact that their food is actually decent…unlike some of their workers.

———- I’m adding this after having read the owner’s response:

1. Your employees are lying to you because I specifically explained to BOTH of them that plaice is a type of fish that’s sometimes served in fish & chip shops.
2. The second employee I spoke with hung up on me when I explained to him that it’s not cool that his colleague said to just come without finding out if they actually had that...