Reel Plaice

Having worked in the industry from the age of 14, Jo Goudie knows what it takes to make an award-winning fish supper. She opened her first fish and chip shop in Kilmarnock in 2018 – The Plaice To Be – and scooped the coveted Best Fish and Chips in the West of Scotland award two years in a row. Before long she was queued out and sold out as customers flocked to get a taste of the best in the West.

Needless to say, the people of Ayr were delighted when Jo moved her business this way in the summer having secured an enviable beachfront location, something which had long been a dream. On a mission to transform the finest produce from the sea into the tastiest fish and chips in town, Jo is relentless in her aim of being the best in the industry and this means cutting no corners. The secret, she’ll tell you, lies in what you know: how to get the perfect batter, understanding optimum frying conditions for consistency, investing in the right equipment and knowing where to get the very best produce.

Sourcing local, responsibly sourced fish and seafood is at the top of Jo’s priority list: to deliver award-winning, sector leading food, provenance is key. Keeping an eye on what’s happening elsewhere is equally important to stay ahead of the curve. Jo’s latest addition to the menu is inspired by trends in America and London: seafood boils. It’s safe to say from the reaction on her social media that this much anticipated dish which showcases the abundant bounties of the sea is sure to be another fast sell-out.

With a new click and collect option starting soon it’s going to be easier than ever to secure your portion of the best in the West.