How To Give The McDonald's Filet-O-Fish A British Twist

The McDonald's Filet-O-Fish is a classic for a reason. Its tender fish fillet, cheese, creamy tartar sauce, and soft bun have made it a go-to for many seafood lovers. Unlike the McRib, which comes and goes on the menu, you can just about always count on seeing the Fillet-O-Fish at your local McDonalds drive-thru. With more than 40,000 McDonald's restaurants worldwide, there's surely one (if not many) ready to order near you.

But what if you could transform this fast food favorite with a nod to British culinary tradition? The answer is simple: add French fries (or "chips," as they're often called across the pond) to create a fish and chips-inspired sandwich.

After ordering your Filet-O-Fish, grab a handful of McDonald's French fries. Open the sandwich, pile the fries onto the fish patty, and close it up. Yes, really, it's that easy — but delicious. The crispy, salty fries add satisfying crunch and a hint of nostalgia for Britain's beloved fish and chips. Want to enhance the experience? If it's at hand, add a dash of malt vinegar to the fries.

Fish and chips is more than just a meal in the UK — it's a cultural institution. The dish became popular in the mid-19th century, with the pairing of fried fish and fried potatoes, a cheap and filling staple for working-class families. By the late 1800s, fish-and-chip shops were popping up across the country, becoming a cornerstone of British cuisine.

The affordability and comfort of fish and chips solidified its place as a national favorite, particularly during World War II when the dish was one of the few foods not really hit by rationing. Today, it remains an iconic meal, celebrated for its crispy, golden batter and hearty serving of chunky chips, often doused in malt vinegar or served with mushy peas.

Adding fries to the Filet-O-Fish means you're recreating the essence of fish and chips in sandwich form. The fish patty mirrors the fried fish fillet; the fries bring crunch and potato goodness. It's an easy way to pay homage to Britain's favorite comfort food while enjoying the convenience of fast food, though of course it's not strictly authentic. And while you're at it, check out these tasty tips for more McDonald's menu hacks, like coffee milkshakes and hash brown McMuffins.