CLANCY’S, Fremantle
by JENNY D’ANGER:
Banjo Paterson’s Clancy of the Overflow may have had “visions splendid” of sunlit plains extended, but I reckon he’d have given it all away for the fish and chips at Clancy’s Fish Pub.
This was far from the first time the D’Angers had dined at the deservedly famous and popular pub at Fremantle’s Princess May Park, and it certainly won’t be the last.
We kicked off sharing field mushrooms, ($17), stuffed with quinoa (keen-war as they say in the western suburbs) with green herbs and roast capsicum coulis.
I’ve eyed quinoa suspiciously, yet another thing being hailed as a superfood (and usually accompanied by “super” prices at the health food shops).
But I have to admit it was delicious, with a slight crunch and nuttiness that worked well with the balsamic-roasted mushies.
Lunch companion Endora opted wisely for the clam chowder, despite the eye-popping $25. Arriving on the table was a steaming, gargantuan bowl of thick soup, liberally laced with clams in the shell, making it a delicious meal in one.
What can I say about the fish and chips ($21)? They’re everywhere in the port city and iconic at Clancy’s and it’s not hard to see why.
The fish was firm and the batter golden and crunchy, while the chips, served in a paper cone, are always just what a good chip should be.
Clancy’s is the only WA restaurant to carry the international Marine
Stewardship Council (MSC) seal of approval.
“From boat to plate [our fish] is certified as sustainable,” chef-turned general manager Justin Rogan says.
Clancy’s menu has moved away from offering traditional three-course meals in favour of smaller serves (with smaller price tags) designed to encourage communal and convivial dining.
The fish pub moniker can be a bit of a conundrum, Justin says.
“On weekend days it’s about family, kids and granny and at night it becomes a bohemian music venue.”
Generations of kids who grew up playing on Princess May Park while mum and dad ate inside with friends are returning as teenagers—without mum and dad—drawn by the music.
As a long-time visitor it’s nice to see many of the staff are familiar faces, clearly happily employed (some have been there so long their own kids have joined the pay roll).
And with Clancy’s recently signing a new 20-year lease, “we will have their grandchildren working here too,” Justin smiles.
Clancy’s Fish Pub
Cantonment Street, Fremantle
Phone 9335 1351
open 7 days from noon