OpenThe Salt House Kitchen
6 Queen's Ave, Seaburn, Sunderland SR6 8DA, United Kingdom
Welcome to Downey's
Downey's stands as a shining gem on Marine Walk, nestled right by Roker Beach in Sunderland. Known for its mouthwatering fish and chips, this cozy spot specializes in serving delicious, freshly-cooked seafood that keeps locals and tourists coming back. Whether dining in or grabbing a takeaway, the friendly atmosphere makes every visit enjoyable. The menu caters to all tastes, including a robust selection of kids' meals. For a satisfying meal without breaking the bank, Downey's delivers exceptional quality and value, with prices ranging from £10 to £20. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the soothing views of the North Sea, making your dining experience even more special.
Welcome to Downey's, your go-to destination for the finest fish and chips in Sunderland. Set against the stunning backdrop of Roker beach at 3 Marine Walk, our casual eatery offers a delightful menu featuring crispy battered haddock, succulent scampi, and perfectly cooked French fries. Whether you're dining in or grabbing a quick takeaway, our friendly staff ensures a warm welcome and attentive service. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere perfect for solo diners, families, and groups alike, with options for kids and a selection of beverages including wine and coffee. Conveniently accessible and with paid parking options nearby, Downey’s invites you to indulge in a memorable dining experience.Services, Amenities and More
Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Offerings
Alcohol
Coffee
Quick bite
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Table service
Atmosphere
Casual
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Diners rave about the fish and chips at Downey's, often calling it the best they have ever tasted. The flaky fish, cooked to order, is complemented by a perfectly crispy batter that anyone can find addictively delicious. Plenty of 'batter bits' make their way to the plate, adding that delightful crunch to each bite. The chips may seem unassuming at first glance, but they offer a satisfying taste that complements the fish perfectly, elevating the overall meal experience.
Patrons also appreciate the generous portion sizes, ensuring that everyone leaves feeling full and satisfied. For those seeking a twist, the curry sauce adds a unique flavor that is popular among regulars. The eatery's family-friendly vibe, along with a dedicated kids' menu, solidifies its status as a go-to dining spot for all ages.
Most Disliked
While the majority enjoy their meals at Downey's, some diners mention occasional inconsistencies with the chips—despite being good, they may appear pale and unremarkable. Some guests hope for a bit more variety in side dishes, as the offering can feel limited. A few reviews also highlight the busy times, particularly during peak hours such as weekends, which can lead to longer wait times and crowded seating. Despite these concerns, the quality of the dishes and the friendly staff usually outweigh any negatives, and many remain loyal to this chippy.
User Reviews
pc
pastry c.
Best fish and chips ever tasted! Fish was firm and cooked to order. Batter was crispy and there were lots of 'batter bits' served with it. Chips good also. Definitely recommend
ML
MLo
Edited: 26th Sep 2024 Came back today for 2 scampi meal deal. We had lovely and warm welcome from Donna (informed us about the meal deal which we appreciated). The portions are in good size (so make sure you are hungry when you visit). Had fish and chips, scampi and chips with nice cold freshing oasis. It was like dine in but we ordered in the takeaway section as the restaurant was closing early but we were allowed to eat inside.
MI
MD I.
Tasty fish and chips. And a friendly staff. Besides, the view from the restaurant is very soothing.
DM
David M.
Great food. Really nice crunchy batter and although the chips looked pale, they were very good. Batter bits available on request. Curry sauce decent. Has high chairs and baby changing!
KC
Kim C.
Voted one of the 5 best fish & chip shops in the country. Had cod, chips & mushy peas, whilst sitting outside looking at Roker Pier & the North Sea. Fabulous. Served by efficient staff. Highly recommended.
CH
Cindy H.
Amazing fish and chips! The fish was covered in crispy batter and tastes wonderful, chips were delightful as well! The combination of curry sauce and mushy peas made the food tastes even better! The staffs were super friendly, massive thanks to Lucas for giving me really helpful recommendations of tourist attractions in this area! The girl who took my order was super lovely, unfortunately didn’t get her name though. The best part is you can enjoy the food while appreciating the gorgeous view of roker beach. Highly recommend this place!
PP
Pedro P.
Great for fish & chips on a sunny beach day. Getting the take-out and sit opposite on the beach benches and tables. Very popular on the first spring Sunday, waiting about 10 minutes. Meals are served in convenient carton boxes. English chips are soft compared to crisp mainland Europe standards, but the fish bites were deliciously fresh.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Downey's is celebrated for its outstanding fish and chips, often hailed as some of the best in the country. The crispy batter and firm fish, paired with delicious chips, make it a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Downey's is open every day of the week, so you can enjoy their fresh fish and chips any time you desire.
Yes, Downey's offers a diverse kids' menu, featuring meals like Fish Finger and Chicken Nugget, ensuring there’s something tasty for younger diners.
Absolutely! Downey's accepts reservations, making it easy to secure your spot, especially during peak times.
Guests can choose from dine-in, takeaway, or quick bites. The casual atmosphere is perfect whether you're grabbing a meal on the go or enjoying a leisurely lunch.
While Downey's focuses primarily on seafood, they do offer sides like peas and gravy and a few vegetarian choices in their starter section, making it accessible for different dietary preferences.
Why visit Downey's
Visiting Downey's offers more than just a meal; it’s about experiencing one of Sunderland's beloved dining spots. The combination of fantastic seafood, stunning views, and a casual atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone in the area. When planning your visit, consider timings; weekdays can be significantly quieter than weekends, making it easier to enjoy a leisurely meal.
Feel free to make reservations for larger groups to ensure a smoother dining experience. Don’t miss out on trying the curry sauce with your fish and chips; it's a local favorite. Whether you're stopping by after a day at the beach or enjoying lunch with friends, Downey's offers a truest taste of British cuisine, wrapped in the charm of Roker.
