I remember it being a really big deal when Harry Ramsden’s opened a place in Edinburgh. Clearly the appeal waned, somewhat, as they no longer inhabit their previous large Leith premises, instead slumming it in Princes Mall.

Counter

The Princes Mall food court is not bonnie. It made Gary sad on today’s visit. The low ceiling is quite oppressive, and there’s a general feeling of things being unfinished.

Ramsden’s quick takeaway counter is much the same as the other nearby concessions. We quickly surveyed their menu, settling upon a large fish n chips. Gary opted for cod, while I chose haddock.

Cod

Service, whilst relatively prompt, was completely shambolic. Which fish were cod, which were haddock? Nobody seemed to know. The woman in charge’s berating of her staff, in front of a counter full of customers, did nothing to aid the situation.

With things resolved, we were soon taking our seats to contemplate our lunches. This is where things took a distinct turn for the better, as the food both looked and tasted rather good.

Haddock

The chips were grand and the fish moist, but the star of the show was the batter, which was very crisp and light. The portion size was suitably generous, without being overly stuffing.

The accompanying drinks were pretty poor, though. They tasted weak and flavourless. Gary suggested that they should look at their recipe book, to get the ratios right.

So overall, I thought the food at Harry Ramsden’s was surprisingly good. As for the service, it was bordering on the embarrassing. If you can contrive to catch them on a better day, you’ll be pleased with what you’re served. You’re unlikely to be pleased with the surroundings, though.

Scores

Blythe scores Harry Ramsden’s
3.5/5 for food
3.5/5 for presentation
1.5/5 for service
2/5 for setting
giving an overall 10.5/20

Today’s questers were: Gary, Blythe

We ate: cod n chips; haddock n chips

We drank: cola drink, lemonade drink

We wore: hangovers

Total bill: £14.96

Princes Mall