Open wide for this fish-and-chips challenge (Shakespeare Pub & Grille)
Pub, Restaurant, Mission Hills

Heavy Loads of Fish ‘n Chips for the Taking

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

If you’re a glutton for classic fish and chips, you could end up scoring the meal for free at Shakespeare Pub & Grille in Mission Hills.

The British-owned establishment presents the “Great White Whale Challenge” to willing foodies who can scarf down a two-pound filet of battered cod, two pounds of “proper chips,” and a jumbo side of green peas in 45 minutes or less.

If successful, the meal is on the house and you get a complimentary “I Did It” T-shirt. Although if your gullet can’t handle the volume, then be prepared to fork over $48.95 for making the attempt.

“We get one or two people on average each week who try it,” said Shakespeare bar manager Sean Mackin when we previously chatted with him about the challenge. He told us that about 40 percent of participants pass the test.

Participants are advised to alert the pub ahead of time if entering the contest during peak hours. Otherwise the kitchen can usually accommodate last-minute requests. Also, the challenge is open only to customers 21 years or older. Oh, and did we mention that lots of the pub’s delectable house-made tartar sauce is included with the meal.