Regardless of the time of the year, a good, greasy plate of piping hot fish and chips, or any other English comfort food while we’re at it, is something that is hard to resist. And while there are many places that offer great doses of English food the relatively new Happy Friar steals the show when it comes to its fish and chips.
Located deep in the tourist area, brushing the outskirts of Limassol it can be easily missed if you’re not on the lookout for it. So keep in mind that it is quite close to the St. Raphael marina. Once found, its location ensures relaxation and peace of mind as you can escape the hustle and bustle of a busy city. The simplistic décor of the restaurant also adds to the air of effortlessness it aims to achieve. It is there, quite simply, to put a smile on your face due to the good food and friendly service and to make you feel as much at ease as possible.
And the one thing on the menu that everyone heads for is its fish and chips. Their fame precedes them, and I had often heard their praises before actually trying them. Upon ordering you get to choose curry sauce to accompany your meal, which to me was a delightful surprise. Once served, everything looked as delicious as it tasted; a large cod that tasted light and crispy and great, crisp batter. The fish was soft and succulent and each mouthful offered a burst of wonderful comfort food flavours. Another great thing about the dish was the double-fried potato chips, offering as an authentic experience as any on our Mediterranean island.
Another thing that I do miss, especially being away from England, and English fish and chip shops are the mushy peas. There is no greater delight than a proper serving of mushy peas and these will not disappoint. All combined with the colorfully spicy curry sauce, and teamed with bread and butter, it creates an unparalleled dining experience.
Yes, the fish and chips dish is the star of the menu, but it is not the only thing Happy Friar’s does well. The pukka pies are another delightful taste of England. OK, they do taste better while walking outside in the cold weather but eating them with the wonderful sea breeze is a new experience that should not be knocked either. Whether it is the wonderfully light seafood pie, something you really can’t find elsewhere in Limassol, or the bangers and mash, there is a flavour of Britain in all dishes that will certainly put a smile on everyone’s face.
Among all these positive points, the slow service time when the restaurant gets quite busy can dampen the experience. Other than that, the affordable prices – you can have a full meal for just under €20 – mean this is a wonderful dining experience.
VITAL STATISTICS
SPECIALTY British Food
WHERE Happy Friars, Leoforos Amathountos 139, Limassol
CONTACT 25 104454, 99 984961
PRICE Under €20 for a full meal
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