Fish Umhlanga — Restaurant in KwaZulu-Natal

It was an absolute shame that the manager after 15 years of visiting came to tell us whether we wanted their battered Hake from the fresh section or the normal frozen other one on the menu. This was a surprise as they have always claimed fresh fish. Then on the bill which I mistakenly have never checked was charging the full meal price with chips or rice instead of the just fish price when we ordered. On confronting them I was told that I should know the difference as there is a fresh side and a frozen side. I said no one has ever told us this before and they were always renowned for fresh fish. He also asked if I ordered correctly and I said I must have as they didn’t bring chips or rice but the separate potato salad we paid for. I think it would be a great idea for the two daughter owners of the late father to check the place out and possibly look at poor management that is there. This may explain the reduced visits. It is a shame and after that we will not...

TL;DR Go to Ocean Basket instead. Cheaper, better service, same fare.

Fish used to be a destination in Umhlanga. Somewhat quirky, but a unique gastronomic treat.

No more.

Fish has become equivalent to any seafood chain, serving a bedraggled selection of moderately skillfully prepared fish with soggy fries. The mediocre quality would be OK, were it not for two things: the absurd prices; and quite possibly the most arrogant service in South Africa.

The staff seem interested only in shuffling you through the restaurant as quickly as possible (something the manager says is OK, but only for early seatings - we were there later so he said this shouldn't have happened). The quirkiness of old has turned into a...

Who knew prawns on a pavement could feel so utterly "La Dolce Vita"?

Fish keeps it simple in the best way. No frills, no fuss, no gastronomic experimental foam, just really good seafood served with heart (and a lovely little sideshow of watching people park, and - yes - we were judging you Mr Porsche).

The prawns? Perfectly cooked and swimming in butter (real butter... not that "tastes like it might be butter" foolery). The linefish? A bit of a local celebrity, and for good reason. It’s all utterly unpretentious, wonderfully fresh, and somehow feels like both a treat and just a Wednesday night.

Go hungry, leave happy, and maybe a little smug that you park better than a...