An American social media influencer living in the United Kingdom has sampled what many consider to be among the nation's finest fish and chips, delivering his verdict in just three succinct words. Kalani Smith, widely known online as Kalani Ghost Hunter, has been touring the UK to explore its viral and hidden culinary gems, documenting his gastronomic adventures on his popular TikTok account.
A Historic Chippy in a Picturesque Setting
Recently, Smith made a special trip to Toll Bar Fish and Chips, located in the scenic Hope Valley within Derbyshire. This establishment boasts an impressive 4.7-star rating on TripAdvisor and has been serving customers since 1926. "You guys say this is the best spot in Derbyshire, so let's go try it out," Smith remarked enthusiastically before his visit.
He was immediately captivated by the shop's idyllic riverside location, describing it as feeling like stepping into the pages of a novel. "It's just beautiful. I think there are only about 200 people living in this town," he observed, highlighting the quaint charm of the surrounding area.
The Meal That Won His Heart
For his tasting, Smith purchased a classic £10.50 meal that included freshly cooked fish, golden chips, a Spam fritter, and a pot of rich curry sauce. Sampling the fish first, he noted it was cooked in vegetable oil, commenting, "Very crunchy. It's a good piece of fish. You know I love beef dripping, but that fish is nice."
He then proceeded to enjoy the chips dunked in curry sauce, nodding appreciatively with each bite. As a Hawaiian native, Smith has a particular fondness for Spam, explaining its cultural significance. "Spam is really big in Hawaii, especially around WWII - there was a ton of this stuff. Now it's a huge thing to get it there, which I think is funny because here in the UK, Spam is big too," he shared.
Taking a hearty mouthful of the Spam fritter, he expressed clear satisfaction, saying, "So, I got a Spam fritter. I love Spam. Oh yeah. Man, I love a chippy tea."
The Ultimate Verdict
So impressed was Smith by the overall experience that he declared the fish and chips from Toll Bar would be his "death row meal" - the ultimate culinary endorsement. He summarised his entire visit with a glowing three-word review that perfectly captured his enthusiasm.
Public Reaction and Reviews
Smith's post generated significant engagement from social media users and TripAdvisor reviewers alike. One Derbyshire resident admitted, "I don't even know where this is and I live in Derbyshire," while another simply stated, "I am so hungry right now."
Some traditionalists offered alternative cooking suggestions, with one commenter insisting, "Needs to be cooked in beef dripping!" Another provided a humorous take on Spam, suggesting it should stand for "salted processed anonymous meat" and noting that understanding its production might change perceptions.
On TripAdvisor, verified customers echoed Smith's praise. One reviewer wrote, "Driven through the village on numerous occasions but never called in until today. Amazing fish, white and chunky haddock. Will definitely call again." Another enthused, "Best fish and chips ever. The size of the fish is sure to satisfy even the largest of appetites. All cooked fresh too. You should put this place on your 'to do' list."
The combination of historic tradition, picturesque setting, and consistently excellent food has clearly established Toll Bar Fish and Chips as a destination worth visiting for both locals and international visitors seeking authentic British culinary experiences.
