Fish and chips can bring back many fond memories, whether that’s of weekends away, warm summer days, or takeaway at home enjoyed with friends or family. What most people may not know is that the seafood served at most fish and chipperies are frozen. Hoping to turn that trend around is Bill Makris, owner of Tank Fish and Chippery.

Despite all the naysayers, Tank has proved to be quite popular amongst those looking for fresh, quality produce, so much so that a second store was launched in Emporium two years ago. Both restaurants feature a bright, fresh and clean interior boasting blue and white tiles and weathered timbers.

It took a long time to tweak the recipes, especially for the batter, which needed to be crunchy whilst keeping the seafood moist and perfectly cooked inside. Having now mastered the staples, Bill is now seeking to perfect the fish burger experience, recently bringing out a special range of burgers, all made using eye-catching black squid ink buns. As with all of Tank’s other sauces, those used in their burgers are all house-made, not bought in.

For simplicity, there’s the grilled salmon, with a lemon and dill mayo, and mint and cucumber slaw. The salmon is seasoned nicely, just with salt, but it’s still tasty and the fish is cooked well. There’s also the parmesan-crumbed flathead fillet, with mint and cucumber slaw and harissa mayo. Crunchy perfection. My pick is the squid ink-battered barramundi, which is paired with a mild Sriracha sauce. The strikingly coloured batter is crunchy but airy and light, so doesn’t distract from the fish inside. The barramundi is wonderfully juicy, an effect you’d only get with fresh fish.

Apart from the items you might expect to find at a typical fish and chippery, Tank also has healthier options like brown rice and colurful salads to come on the side, or to have as a main. Today though, we try the chips, which are seasoned with a herb mix and have a hint of lemony zest.

With a real focus on customer service, and fresh, locally sourced, restaurant-quality seafood, Tank offers something a step above the average fish and chip shop.

Disclaimer: I was invited to Tank as a guest, however, opinions expressed here are purely my own, and are based on my experience at the time

Tank Fish & Chippery
149-151 Lygon St
Carlton, VIC, 3053
(03) 9040 2124
www.tankfishandchips.com.au