Feel like a real Londoner: Rock & Sole Plaice

hite-haired and softly articulate, Barry is an accomplished writer, cross-cultural trainer and broadcaster. But even more importantly, he is a born-and-bred Londoner, a rare breed these days. I couldn't think of a better person to recommend a good chippie, fish and chips shop. Today, to celebrate the last day of our training, he took us to Rock & Soul Plaice, reputedly the Big Smoke's oldest, established in 1871.

On a sunny day the pickings were slim on the terrace, but it is none less enjoyable inside thanks to the wall-size windows. There is a typical choice of deep-fried cod, halibut and skate on the menu but, on Barry's advice, I ordered a London-only treat of fish cakes and fried cod roe. It's £5.50 for one, £6.50 for two - guess how many I went for! If you order the same to take away and without chips, it's mere £1.50! Who said multinational chains have unbeatable prices?

The fish cakes are pleasantly lean and mildly herby, but I like the fried cod roe even more, it's much smoother and gentler. Although deep-fried food is by far not at the top of my list, this is probably as good this English classic ever gets.

Funnily enough, all the staff seem to be foreign in this traditional shops but then again it's typical London for you too!

Rock & Soul Plaice, 47 Endell Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9AJ