A humble fish and chips shop has unexpectedly become the epicenter of a viral food phenomenon, captivating diners with a colossal, battered fish priced at a staggering $86. This extraordinary dish has not only become a local sensation but has also garnered international attention, primarily fueled by its astonishing size and the sheer spectacle it presents upon arrival at the table.

The culinary marvel, weighing in at an impressive scale, is specifically designed to cater to a group, with estimates suggesting it comfortably serves around four individuals. Despite its generous proportions, eager patrons, often inspired by viral online content, frequently attempt to conquer this magnificent meal as a solo challenge, adding to its mystique and popularity. Currently, the establishment prepares approximately three to four of these massive meals each week, exclusively available via pre-order due to the intricate preparation required.

The genesis of this oversized delicacy traces back over nine years ago, when shop owner Alex Povalyaev, 44, sought to create a memorable surprise for visiting friends. This experimental endeavor involved deep-frying one of the largest fish available, a decision that inadvertently birthed what would become the shop’s most talked-about unique restaurant dish. Povalyaev recounts the initial success, noting the immediate and overwhelming reaction it elicited.

Its popularity surged dramatically through word-of-mouth and, more significantly, through social media. Povalyaev emphasizes the universal shock and awe expressed by customers as the enormous fish is brought out from the kitchen. “Everyone is in shock when they see it come out,” he shares, highlighting the dish’s undeniable visual impact and its ability to create a lasting impression on those who order it.

The giant fish and chips gained unprecedented traction on TikTok, where videos showcasing the culinary feat have collectively amassed almost 12 million views. This digital virality transformed the dish into a prominent TikTok food trend, attracting content creators and influencers eager to document their attempts to tackle the viral food challenge. The shop now frequently welcomes customers who explicitly mention discovering the eatery through the popular social media platform.

Despite its immense success, preparing this massive meal presents considerable operational hurdles, particularly concerning the sourcing and cooking of the exceptionally large fish. Povalyaev explains the difficulty in procuring fish of such dimensions, often relying on suppliers who themselves are unsure of the exact contents within their bulk deliveries. This unpredictability adds a layer of complexity to maintaining consistent availability of the unique ingredient.

Furthermore, the cooking process itself demands meticulous attention, differing significantly from the preparation of a standard-sized fish portion. The owner states that the gargantuan fish “needs a lot of attention” to ensure it is cooked perfectly, crispy on the outside and tender within. This commitment to detail underscores the shop’s dedication to providing a high-quality culinary experience, transforming a simple takeaway into an unforgettable dining event.

The saga of the $86 fish continues to fascinate and draw crowds, solidifying its status as not just a meal, but a bona fide attraction. It stands as a testament to the power of a single, extraordinary item to elevate a local business onto the global stage, proving that sometimes, bigger truly is better when it comes to captivating the public’s imagination.