On a lazy weekend when I didn’t feel inspired to cook, Mack and I decided to finally patronize Back Home Fish & Chips, just down the street from his apartment. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been tempted by the wafting, intoxicating smell of good ol’ grease when passing by, but the circumstance to visit them didn’t present itself until now.
Back Home Fish and Chips
The restaurant always looked so quaint from the outside, with their checkered tablecloths and large bank of windows letting in a healthy amount of natural light. When we walked in, we found it to be much the same as our external impression, and found a seat in a cozy booth. The rest of the diners in Back Home seemed to be made up of regulars, which didn’t surprise me. I find that most stalwart fish and chip fans will have one joint they believe to have the “best” product above all others in the city, and deign to listen to any other opinions (you would be hard pressed, for example, to convince my parents that anything other than Joey’s Only would offer them the quality and value for their dollar).
Menus
Our efficient waitress brought us menus and took our drink orders straightaway. While the menu did offer their namesake dish, they unfortunately did not offer a choice of fish – haddock was the only type available. On the bright side, I was surprised to find all types of seafood listed, from calamari to clams to cod tongues and cheeks. Their prices were fairly reasonable, meaning we probably could have split an appetizer without breaking the bank. We decided in the end to just proceed to the main course; I opted for the small fish and chips ($11.95), which contained three pieces of fish, while Mack was easily swayed by the shrimp and chips ($15.95).
Our dishes arrived in speedy fashion, helped by the fact that we were the only ones who put in an order at that point. Though both my fish and fries were a bit dark (perhaps signalling a need to change the oil), both for the most part were crispy. The kitchen definitely did not scrimp on portion sizes, and even with their smallest plate, I struggled to finish my meal. The light batter concealed an flaky and moist fish, fork tender underneath its shell. Mack also enjoyed his shrimp, which were flavourful and satisfying.
Small Fish and Chips
Shrimp and Chips
Final verdict: while our experience wasn’t unexceptional, it wasn’t particularly memorable either. So if a fish and chip craving were to hit us, we wouldn’t hesitate to return, but Back Home won’t become a destination restaurant either.
Back Home Fish & Chips
12323 Stony Plain Road NW
(780) 451-7871
Monday-Thursday 11:30am-9:30pm, Friday 11:30am-10pm, Saturday noon-9:30pm, Sunday noon-8pm
Only Here for the Food 
It’s around the corner from work but I have yet to try it! Maybe one of these days when I’m really hungry. Have a good time in DC!
I tried Back Home for the first time on Good Friday. The line up was out the down and onto the street. The wait wasn’t terribly long and worth it. The service was fast, even on a busy night. I’ve eaten at Brit’s and authentic chippys in the UK but they are all usually quite oily. Back Home was great in comparison. My Brit CLH enjoyed it as well, and he’s pretty picky when it come to fish and chips. I for one will definitely be back. (and why not? It’s right across the street practically!)
As oily as it is, I really like Brit’s, so it’s hard to convince me to go elsewhere. But, Sara has gone to Back Home, in an effort to find some authentic Newfoundland food in here in Edmonton. Her verdict: not great, and they don’t do pan-fried cod (a Newfoundland classic).
I’m sure it’s good fish & chips, but apparently the place isn’t as authentically Newfoundlander as it claims to be (or used to claim to be…I’m not sure if they still tout the fact that they’re a home-away-from-home for Newfoundlanders looking for home-style food).
Brit’s fries in beef fat (last time I checked) which is why it would be so greasy. I have never heard Back Home touted as a Newfoundland-style seafood place. I find it not too greasy and like Sharon discovered, the “small” portion is quite big. I also like it better than Joey’s Only.
I have eaten here 6 times now. The Cod Tounges are the best this side of Newfoundland. The staff here are just the best and they make you feel right at home.