Olde Yorke Fish & Chips — Restaurant in Toronto

For years I've wanted to stop by Olde Yorke to see what all the fuss was about. In fact, recently, since moving closer to the area, I'd driven by three days in a row trying to eat there, but it was always rammed and I wasn't about to wait for some fish & chips- glad I didn't, in retrospect. Anyways, finally made it in today, and immediately really loved the interior and old school vibe- a real throwback, which we really need more of in this city. Server was immediately very friendly and attentive. Sadly, the famous fish (in my case, halibut) and chips fell quite short of what I was hoping for. With so many reviews touting how crispy the exterior is, I was let down, as the batter coating my slab of fish was extremely doughy, clinging to the fish like bubblegum... not the crispy, cavernous, dream I was sold on. I also found both the fish and chips to be significantly lacking in any flavour/seasoning- that's okay, though, quickly augmented and righted by the table-side s&p, malt vinegar, and the tartar sauce which accompanies, which was lovely! Chips were nicely cooked however, and I thoroughly enjoyed smothering them in their ketchup, which I'd hazard to guess is not your standard Heinz, can anyone confirm? Maybe being in an unmarked vessel is playing mind-tricks on me, but I recall especially enjoying their ketchup. Coleslaw was fantastic. Really am sad that the fish wasn't more in line with what I was expecting- I might give it another shot, ordering some onion rings as well, as those looked great. Would also like to try the cod cheeks next time, as well as the chowder, which my companion had and liked enough. Oh, and the Key lime pie was stellar- safely one of the best I've had in the city, would definitely order again. While the spot I'm about to cite isn't exactly known for their fish & chips, and imo what they're known for (primarily souvlaki, burgers, gyros, steak on a bun, etc.) is lacking, Zets surprised me by how great a halibut fish & chips they do- just had it within the last week, and quite significantly preferred it to what I had at Olde York- sacrilege, I'm sure, but I trust my tastebuds. But hey, look, I'm happy to give Olde Yorke another go in time- I like supporting institutions like this. My only other criticism is that many of the patrons, who are older on average, can make you feel unpleasant with their judgmental stares- it's like they can smell you're...

I usually love local mom and pop shop restaurants, so I was so excited to check out Old Yorke after hearing so many great reviews!

To my understanding, two sisters inherited the place from their parents back in ‘97. I had the, somewhat, pleasure of speaking to one of the sisters, Olivia, after having to send back the chicken strips.

I visited the restaurant with a friend and my four year old son. I was shocked to find out that there is no kids menu, but it is a family restaurant. Anyway, the chicken strip did not taste right. The owner, Olivia, did mention that the chicken and fish are fried in the same oil, which was a little concerning for me, as I have restaurant management experience and know how crucial it is to follow cross contamination procedures. Not even McDonald’s fries their fish in the chicken oil!!!

What motivated me write this review was my interaction with Olivia, who came off really rude and caught me off guard. She mentioned that she’d have to take the chicken strips off my bill but that would be coming out of her pocket. I had no problem paying for the chicken strips if it was an issue.

Out of all the fish and chip places in the city, you’re better off going elsewhere.

RESPONSE:

Just wanted to respond as I am a little taken aback by your response... when you had asked what was wrong with the chicken fingers, I said it didn't taste good that it could be the oil it was fried in, as I didn't want to believe that it was the chicken that was spoiled; you mentioned that "the chicken was fried in the same oil my fish was fried in," meaning that it was fried in the same fryer. I never said that my son is a picky eater, as my son is a great eater, just prefers chicken over fish. I am very shocked by the lack of integrity, sincerity and intent to apologize for your behaviour. Me and my guests were the only minorities in the restaurant and i believe this is why you behaved that way. Your chicken fingers tasted spoiled and rather than ensuring that your chicken was up to quality standards, you came to our table aggressively and verbally attacked us. This is concerning and should be raised to Toronto Public Health and the public...

Ok I have to be fair in my opinion of Olde Yorke Fish and Chips...and it is the best fish and chips in the GTA...the takeout is just as fantastic as if you ate it(although eating it at the restaurant right as it is served will always be the best way to enjoy!!!) You have to try their calamari and clam strips...in fact I would suggest trying everything and finding your own faves...the service from the previous review was a one off...in all fairness the service over all these years has been great...after all we are over 2 years into a pandemic...

This is my current review of Olde Yorke Fish and chips, I will also leave my previous review so that everyone can make their own decision.

During the pandemic we have been trying to support the restaurant industry and believe that it is important. I have been a big fan of Olde Yorke since they opened in 1997... But my last trip was a nightmare, one of the sister owners was beyond rude to my family member and myself... We understand its a pandemic but honestly we are a family unit and it was two of us... She decided to yell at us and tell us that one of us had to wait outside or we can leave... Well I didn't want to argue so I went outside and waited as my family member ordered.

I really felt like not ordering but my family loves their fish and chips. There food is great but I will not be going back and neither will most of the people I have recommended this place to.

We have found another place that treats us like human beings... I will always support the restaurant industry but they also need to be fair and respectful to their customers, especially ones who have been coming for over 20 years...I wish them the best as they have a large loyal following, but we are no longer a part of that...

(previous review) Been coming here since they first opened. This is my got fish and chip restaurant in Toronto. Great fish and chips, the chowder is off the charts delicious and the clam strips are great. Just too bad they don't have the complimentary bread anymore, it was...