Kennedy's Barbican

Kennedy's Barbican

169 Whitecross St, Barbican, London EC1Y 8JT, United Kingdom

+44 20 7253 1796

Fish & chips restaurant, British restaurant, Fish and chips takeaway, Fish restaurant, Restaurant
(1009)
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About This Place

Kennedy's Barbican stands out as a quintessential British restaurant and fish & chips haven nestled at 169 Whitecross St in the heart of Barbican, London. Renowned for its fresh, crispy, and generously portioned seafood, this charming spot expertly captures the essence of classic British comfort food paired with a warm, inviting atmosphere.

From the moment you step inside, Kennedy's Barbican offers an authentic culinary journey centered on British staples elevated with care and quality. Signature dishes such as the Fish and Chips Jumbo and the Wholetail Scampi boast a perfectly crunchy batter enveloping moist, flaky fish that melts in your mouth. For those seeking variety, the menu impressively spans delicate Calamari, Grilled Squid, Whitebait, and an indulgent Seafood Platter, satisfying all seafood cravings. Meat lovers can indulge in hearty choices like the legendary Steak and Kidney Pie—a fan favorite and described by customers as some of the best in London—alongside comforting classics such as Bangers and Mash and the Chicken Fillet Burger.

Children are well catered for with a thoughtfully curated kids menu featuring favorites such as homemade chicken nuggets, cod burgers, and fish fingers made from 100% cod, ensuring even the smallest palates are delighted.

The culinary experience culminates on a sweet note with irresistible dessert options like Sticky Toffee Pudding, Apple Pie served with custard or ice cream, and a luxurious Dark Chocolate Truffle, offering a perfect balance of homey warmth and refined decadence.

The dining atmosphere at Kennedy's Barbican amplifies the charm of its historic Barbican location. Guests frequently praise the warm, community-driven spirit reflected by the friendly and attentive staff, where owner Ash's familiar presence adds a personal, heartfelt touch. This isn’t just a place to eat – it’s a gathering spot filled with vibrant neighborhood life and genuine hospitality.

Patrons have consistently highlighted the perfect crunch of the batter, the freshness of the seafood, and the thoughtful accompaniments, such as the tangy tartare sauce and carefully prepared pickles, which enhance each bite without overpowering the main ingredients. Whether enjoying a casual meal of fish and mash or savoring more adventurous dishes like skate and grilled baby squid, diners walk away feeling satisfied and eager to return.

Kennedy's Barbican's commitment to quality, community, and authentic British flavors makes it a standout in London's bustling dining scene. If you’re craving fresh, crispy, and flavorful fish and chips paired with heartfelt service and a cozy atmosphere, this gem should be top of your list.

Service options
Outdoor seating -contact delivery Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Braille menu Coffee Free water refills Private dining room Quick bite Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    12:00 PM - 09:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    12:00 PM - 09:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    12:00 PM - 09:00 PM
  • Thursday
    12:00 PM - 09:30 PM
  • Friday
    12:00 PM - 09:30 PM
  • Saturday
    12:00 PM - 09:30 PM
  • Sunday
    Closed

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Max Herzog
    1 month ago

    Fantastic fish and chips. Crispy battered fish, hot and fluffy chips and great sauces on the side. The atmosphere is also so great in such a historic place and the staff were as friendly as could be.

  • Dejris Osterski
    1 month ago

    That was a really great discovery of the recent London trip. They serve delicious and fresh fish: tried the Skate and grilled baby squid - both worth recommendation. But also the best steak and kidney pie I ever ate (and I am tasting those every time I am in London)! This was a true gem really: it tastes very homemade on one hand, but the flavours of meet and kidney works so well together opening level by level, that it also is a chef quality on the other. Definitely place worth visiting. The staff is friendly and nice, if a bit lost sometimes (i.e. forgetting parts of the order - visited twice, got that twice ), but this is just minor nuisance. Friendliness prevails.

  • Tiwaz Heimdall
    2 month ago

    Thanks! Had a very good fish and mash. And big is big! ;) In case you need, another good reason to eat there: Also liked Ash, the owner. He is a nice guy knowing everyone in his community/ street. Here also helps out the homeless.

  • Magali Georgel
    2 month ago

    Great find! The fish and chips is delicious, fresh, crispy, and not greasy at all. Special mention for the pickles and tartare sauce ! Warm, neighborhood atmosphere and a kind, welcoming team. We’ll definitely be back!

  • Ruth Go
    2 month ago

    Great fish and chips with a perfectly crunchy batter and moist, flaky fish. A tad oilier than usual though. The portion was generous. I forgot to ask for tartare sauce and only realised when I got back to the hotel, so make sure to request it as it’s served separately. The staff were super friendly and helpful. Overall, a delicious and enjoyable meal that I’d happily come back for, would want to try their pies.

  • GMA SPMU ACADEMY COURSES (Gina)
    2 month ago

    If you’re craving for the original Fish & Chips, this is the place to get it. Flavourful large battered fish and a heap of tasty crispy chips that do not break the bank. A tidy interior with character , a clean toilet and kind owners. Highly recommended.

  • Lia Stambolieva
    3 month ago

    We had dinner here and the fish & chips was absolutely amazing! Very traditional, super tasty, and the portion size was generous. The staff were also really friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better. Definitely a place I’d come back to!

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