The Good Companion
The Good Companion has been on my list since I moved to Amsterdam. Rumor has it, the place has the best fish and chips in the area. I don’t get to eat enough fish, as Hayden isn’t a fan, which is well annoying (get it together, man). However, the golden rule usually applies: fried is alright. And so, I managed to drag him here for last Saturday’s lunch.
Another important factor for our choice was the fact that they have a Tofush version – you guessed it, tofu fish. Not that any of us cares, but our vegan friend was happy about it.
While the fish and chips are the main attraction, the menu offers more than that. Fingerfood based on sea food is available, together with warm mains like a Fisherman Stew or Gurnard with oyster mushrooms and beer pickled shallots.
Ah, right – my favorite part. Oysters. There’s oysters. More importantly, there’s oysters happy hours, which for once, are not 3-5PM on a Tuesday. They start at 3PM on Saturday! Dumb me however completely forgot and missed it this time, but I shall return without a doubt.
Ok, let’s talk fish and chips. All my non-vegan companions and I chose the Classic, meaning cod. I was happy with the texture and cooking style. The one thing that usually puts me off most about the dish is the overly oily crust that I’ve had way too often. The Good Companion however did not make this mistake. On the side, there’s a small portion of mushy peas – good enough for me, not a big fan – and a fresh Ravigotte sauce.
The chips were thick, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside – perfect for absorbing some salt and vinegar. Funny how every time I mention my cravings for salt and vinegar chips (like, crisps) everyone gives me the stink eye, but this is acceptable? Hm, fine.
I tried my friend’s Tofush. She got a soy vinaigrette with it which was delicious. I am not a big fan of tofu, but this was well cooked and spiced, not chewy, and actually pretty damn good. The crust’s texture here was a bit off, not puffy and bubbly enough.
We were all happy with The Good Companion’s food and service. The portions were just enough so none of us left stuffed. I’ll be returning for that Oysters special brunch, and I’d love to give their fingerfood menu a try. A mixed platter is available, and I’ve heard good things about their shrimp croquettes. Important to note that their website announces a new menu soon.
As for the best fish and chips in Amsterdam, I’ll have to explore more specialty restaurants here before I give a verdict. So far, I can say it was better than quite many others I had in the UK.
Value for money: 8
Food Quality: 8
Location: 8 (Westerstraat 264)
Service: 8
Website: https://www.thegoodcompanion.nl/
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