For many, a trip to the local chippy is a classic British tradition. However, for those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivities, finding a meal that is both safe and high-quality can be a challenge. At Hennighan’s, we believe that everyone should be able to enjoy a golden, crispy fish supper with total peace of mind.
Since 1982, our family-run business has been a staple of the local community. Now recognised as one of the UK’s Top Ten fish and chip shops, Hennighan’s prioritises quality, sustainability and customer safety above all – including in our gluten-free fish and chips.
Our Strict “No Risks” Cooking Process
The most important thing for our customers to know is that we take a “zero-risk” approach to gluten-free dining. For us, it isn’t just an extra menu option; it’s a conscious, daily effort backed by rigorous kitchen practices that prevent cross-contamination. We are incredibly conscious of our customers’ safety and make a dedicated effort to ensure every meal is handled with care.
To ensure our gluten-free offerings are 100% safe, we follow a strict preparation and cooking protocol:
- One Dedicated Pan – We have a pan dedicated exclusively to gluten-free products. This ensures that your chips and fish never come into contact with standard batter or contaminated oil.
- Separate Equipment – We use entirely separate equipment and utensils for preparing all gluten-free items to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination.
- Safe Closing Practices – To maintain these high standards, our gluten-free service ends 45 minutes before closing each day. This allows our team the necessary time to follow specialised cleaning and shutdown procedures.
Why Choose Our Gluten-Free Fish and Chips?
At Hennighan’s, we know that “safe” shouldn’t mean “boring.” Many gluten-free diners have had to settle for different textures or a lack of flavour in their food, but we believe you shouldn’t have to compromise. You can have food that’s both safe and delicious.
-
The Perfect Batter
We have worked hard researching and perfecting our gluten-free recipe. By using locally sourced, high-quality gluten-free ingredients, we’ve created a batter that’s light, crisp, and packed with the same award-winning flavour our customers have loved for decades.
-
Freshness You Can Trust
Unlike some takeaways that may only offer gluten-free options on specific days, we serve our GF menu every single day. We also offer delicately steamed fish for those looking for a lighter, naturally gluten-free alternative.
-
Recommended By Customers
We are proud to serve the coeliac community safe and delicious food, and love hearing your feedback. Here is what one of our customers had to say on Facebook:
“I contacted Hennighan’s Topshop Fish & Chip shop and explained that I have coeliac disease, and I was reassured that whilst they do have gluten on the premises, they do offer gluten free fish and chips as well as other options such as sausage and fishcake, and they have a separate fryer, using separate utensils. Fantastic!
When we arrived, I met the owner, David, who was incredibly welcoming and friendly. He showed me the way they prepare all of the food and explained the measures that are taken to ensure that the gluten free food is all safe for coeliacs (I was told that recently the fryers were tested and the oil in the fryers contains under 10ppm of gluten, which is perfectly safe for coeliacs)!
The battered cod and chips I had were absolutely delicious, with salt and vinegar (gluten free vinegar!) The batter was crispy and flavoursome, with plenty of chunky, flaky cod, and the chips perfectly prepared!
As it was a nice warm day, we ate our fish & chips on one of the benches outside.
Overall, the staff couldn’t have been more helpful, I felt incredibly reassured, safe, and I really enjoyed the food!
I will definitely be going back, and as a very sensitive coeliac I highly recommend Hennighan’s Topshop.”
Visit Us at Either Location
At Hennighan’s, our top priority is giving you the tastiest, safest gluten-free fish and chips in Wales. Our dedication to health and safety goes beyond just offering GF options – it’s a promise of award-winning flavour with a zero-risk approach, and total commitment to food safety practices.
Whether you’re a Mach local or just visiting our beautiful town, you can enjoy our gluten-free menu exactly how you like it. We offer both takeaway and dine-in options at both of our Machynlleth locations:
- The Top Shop: Located at the top end of town, this is a firm favourite for many of our visiting tourists.
- The Bottom Shop: Situated right in the heart of the town centre, perfect for a lunch break.
Both shops offer outdoor seating, so you can tuck into your fish and chips while soaking up the serene atmosphere of Machynlleth. No matter which shop you visit, you’ll find the same high standards, the same “no-risk” gluten-free process, and the same warm Hennighan’s welcome.
Planning a visit to Machynlleth? We can’t wait to serve you. Just remember to place your gluten-free order at least 45 minutes before we close!
FAQs
Q: Is everything on the menu gluten-free?
A: While the entire menu is not gluten-free, we offer fantastic GF alternatives, including our signature gluten-free batter and steamed fish options. You can find our full menu here for more information.
Q: Where can I get gluten-free fish and chips?
A: You can find delicious, safely prepared gluten-free fish and chips every day at both of our Machynlleth locations! Choose from our central Bottom Shop or the Top Shop at the top end of town.
No matter which shop you choose, you’ll receive the same award-winning taste and our strict ‘no-risk’ commitment to gluten-free safety.
Q: When can I get gluten-free fish and chips?
A: Every day! We serve our gluten-free menu during all standard hours, stopping 45 minutes before we close to ensure we can clean down safely.
Q: How do you make sure there’s no cross-contamination?
A: By using a dedicated pan for GF products and entirely separate preparation equipment. We take no risks when it comes to your health.
Q: Can I eat my gluten-free meal at the shop?
A: Absolutely! We have space to enjoy your meal inside our restaurant, or you can take advantage of the outdoor seating available at both our Top Shop and Bottom Shop locations.