White Row Fish & Chips Revisited: Still a Treat, But Not Without Its Critics

It’s been two years since we last reviewed White Row Fish & Chips at White Row Farm, just outside Frome in Somerset. Back then, we praised its generous portions, rich flavours, and the welcoming, countryside charm that made it a go-to for many. So on a recent return, we were curious—would it still live up to its reputation in a time of inflation, rising prices, and changing customer expectations?

Our Return Visit: Familiar Comforts in a Rustic Setting

This time, we dined in the outhouse barn, a rustic wooden annex with sturdy timber tables, bench seating, and a glowing wood burner that made it feel warm and inviting despite the brisk spring air. It was a lovely change from the main café, and the setting alone offered a relaxing, countryside experience that you’d be hard-pressed to find in most high street fish and chip shops.

We ordered two of the Lunch Specials, available between 12 noon and 4 pm. This is our go-to choice lunch: a prime cod fillet accompanied by chips and mushy peas. While the price has risen to £14 from around £10 a few years ago—a reflection of current inflationary trends—the portion size and quality remain commendable. It’s heartening to see that, unlike some establishments that have reduced serving sizes, White Row Farm Cafe maintains its generous portions, ensuring diners receive excellent value.

A notable aspect of their culinary approach is the use of beef dripping for cooking their award-winning fish and chips, imparting a rich and authentic flavour.For those with dietary preferences or restrictions, vegetarian and gluten-free options are thoughtfully prepared in a separate fryer using vegetable oil, ensuring inclusivity without compromising on taste.

Prime Cod Fillet served with chunky chips and mushy peas – still a hearty portion, golden and crisp on the outside, flaky and moist within.
The price has risen from around £10 to £14, and while that’s a noticeable jump, we were pleased to see that portion sizes have not shrunk—a rare win in today’s food scene.
Fish and chips are traditionally cooked in beef dripping, which gives them their rich, crispy edge—but vegetarian and gluten-free options are available too, prepared in a separate fryer using vegetable oil.

Still, by the time you add drinks, a casual lunch for two can easily tip over £30–£35, which begins to feel steep for a midweek treat. That said, the quality of the food and the attention to presentation gave the impression that you’re not just grabbing a takeaway, but enjoying a full sit-down dining experience.

Read about our previous visit – Fresh Cooked Fish and Chips at the White Row Farm

The Menu: Still Full of Choice

Beyond the prime cod fillet, the menu offers a variety of seafood delights, including prime haddock, handmade extra-large fishcakes, scampi, and prime cod goujons. The specials board often features seasonal dishes like grilled skate wings, pan-fried Scottish salmon, and seafood platters, showcasing the cafe’s dedication to fresh and diverse offerings.

White Row’s fish and chip counter isn’t limited to cod. You can try:

Prime Haddock, handmade extra-large fishcakes, scampi, and cod goujons
Seasonal specials like grilled skate wings, pan-fried Scottish salmon, or even a seafood platter (check the board—availability can vary)

Beyond the fryer, the White Row Farm Café also serves breakfasts, cakes and puddings, and afternoon tea, making it a popular stop for travellers heading to and from Longleat Safari Park or exploring the Somerset countryside.

Customer Perspectives: A Mix of Praise and Considerations

Customer feedback reflects a blend of admiration and candid observations:

One patron noted the evolution from a quick takeaway spot to a more formal dining experience, appreciating the quality but expressing concerns over increased prices and longer service times.

Another highlighted the excellent food quality and friendly service but mentioned that drinks and extras felt overpriced. They also observed that children’s portions are substantial, offering value for those with moderate appetites.

A returning customer expressed disappointment over higher prices and reduced chip portions in their takeaway order, though they praised the friendly staff.

These insights underscore the importance of balancing quality, portion sizes, and pricing, especially in today’s economic climate.

Final Thoughts: Upholding Tradition Amidst Change

In an era where dining out has become increasingly costly, White Row Fish & Chips stands out by preserving the essence of traditional British fare. Their dedication to quality ingredients, generous servings, and accommodating a range of dietary needs ensures that both new visitors and returning patrons can enjoy a satisfying and authentic experience.

White Row Fish & Chips continues to offer a unique setting with fresh, often well-prepared fish and generous plates. But rising prices, occasional inconsistency, and customer service hiccups have understandably left some diners frustrated.

That said, on a good day, it’s still one of the best places in Somerset to enjoy a traditional fish and chips meal in a relaxed, countryside setting. If you’re heading there for the first time, go during lunch hours for the special and plan to eat in for the full experience. If you’re a returning customer, it might be worth managing expectations and checking the specials board before ordering.