If you're visiting Ryde and enjoying the esplanade or the huge expanses of sand, you're unlikely to look behind the rows of imposing Victorian residences that front the shore.

If you did, you'd be even less likely to venture down Monkton Street, with its appearance of an inconsequential urban backstreet. But by such an omission you would miss out on the pleasure of the row of shops which features Chipmunks fish and chip bar, a small but well-frequented takeaway chip shop that, despite being only a few moments from the beach, is almost entirely patronised by locals.

Chipmunks is a simple, homely chip shop that serves good food quickly. It's not got the finest chips on the island, but it's great value for money and very far from having the worst. The portion size and quality certainly trump the better-placed Cod Father.

Matt is a regular patron, usually enjoying a generous portion of cod, and junior reviewers Bill and Jack swear by the Chipmunks battered jumbo and saveloy. The friendly and brisk service adds to the experience, plus, if you're in a hurry, it's almost always possible to park right outside.