Merchants Fish and Chip Shop is more than just a place to grab food; it’s an experience led by none other than the Chip Shop Diva. She brings her personality and charm to every interaction, instantly making you feel like you’re not just a customer but a valued guest. From the moment you step in, she warmly greets you with her classic question, “Would you like a mini haddock meal?” It’s a phrase that, coming from her, feels like an invitation to indulge in a comforting, classic meal.
The Chip Shop Diva isn’t just about taking orders; she cares about her customers. With her trademark warmth, she’ll ask, “How’s your day been?” genuinely interested in how you’re doing. Her ability to connect makes the shop feel like a welcoming haven, a place where you can unwind and chat while you wait for your food. The Diva brings a human touch that’s rare and makes you feel seen. And she always has her little catchphrase ready, “Doesn’t it?” adding a touch of humor that brings a smile to your face and makes every visit memorable.
When it comes to the food, the Chip Shop Diva takes immense pride in delivering a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. The mini haddock meal she so often recommends is fantastic: a perfectly cooked, flaky haddock encased in a golden, crispy batter, with chips that are fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The Diva’s attention to quality ensures that every meal lives up to the classic British fish and chips standard. If you’re a regular, she remembers what you like—whether it’s a side of mushy peas or a dash of extra vinegar—and she’ll hand it over with that smile, saying, “Doesn’t it just make it perfect?”
The Chip Shop Diva’s warmth goes beyond food; she’s the soul of the place, a friendly face in the community who makes every customer feel special. She knows when you need cheering up, offers a laugh, or just listens with genuine interest. Her role is more than customer service; she creates a space where everyone feels they belong, making each visit uplifting.
In every way, the Chip Shop Diva embodies what makes Merchants special. Her humor, her warmth, her signature questions and phrases—it all creates a sense of tradition and comfort that makes Merchants feel like home. For those who know her, she’s as much a part of the experience as the haddock and chips themselves, turning every meal into a moment...
Read moreI was at the Severn Valley Railway Spring Diesel Festival yesterday, and every time I was at the Bewdley station, people were chomping down on the most amazing smelling and looking fish and chips. I eventually asked someone where they were from, and it was Merchants Bewdley.
So I found myself in a very busy queue at 2015 last night, and it was a well deserved queue well worth waiting in. I had their Large Haddock Special meal, at £12. They also had a £6 and £8 option, prices shown in the photos below. Whilst the fish doesn't look that big, it was really thick, and beautiful. The batter was crisp and dry. It had been cooked specially for me, as I'd ordered the large. The chips were spot on. Odd to say, but probably the best salt and vinegar I've ever had 🤷
One thing that I will say is that the meal comes with "sauce". Not knowing what sauce options they had when asked which I wanted, I was told curry, gravy. peas or beans. So sauce is clearly sides in this part of the UK 😂. That said, an American behind me in the queue asked for tartar, and got it without correction, which I thought a little naughty. I didn't see what she got, maybe it was a tub of home made tartar rather than Heinz.
I went with curry. It was nice, but a bit powdery, as though not mixed properly. Didn't put me off though.
Would I return, definitely. I'll be taking a walk over there at lunch time the next time I'm at a SVR event. This was far better than my experience at The magpie in Whitby, supposedly one of the best in the country,...
Read moreAfter getting my silk press, I had that feeling when knee surgery is tomorrow. I decided to treat myself to a MINI HADDOCK MEAL. Upon searching for a nice place to eat, I clicked hide icons, but I could still see this restaraunt. Upon entering the vicinity I was greeted with another woman working the counter. I quickly said “Oh no no no, do not even think about serving me.” and proceeded to point to her and say “Mama, a girl behind you.” she gave me a “WHAT I DO 💙 “ stare but proceeded to let the blond girl take my order. I said “Who is this DIVA 💙” and she replied “Would you like a mini haddock meal with curry sauce” I payed with that FaceCard because it never declines. We got into a full conversation before I realized I was running late for Ellie and MASON House. I quickly said “Just put my fish and chips in the back” and she replied “HMM”. 10/10 service. User868739176690 literally predicted that this was would be BUSSIN and boy were they correct. The food made me crash out Hawk Tuah over it before getting a low taper fade
Will...
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