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I tried the fish and chips and it was so delicious! The tartar sauce and lemon complimented it very well and the owner chef nick was super friendly :)
After an excellent introduction through an event, I decided to return and purchase their famous fish & chips, a bottle of the NOLA Hurricane, and a cup of their Old Fashioned. The fish & chips were spectacular! The fish contained loads of flavor and was fried to perfection-perfect crispy to it! The chips were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Both were perfectly paired with tartar sauce and the most delicious mushy peas. NOLA Hurricane- nice and strong! Perfect for rooftop weather. The Old Fashioned was great! If you're an Old Fashioned lover, you'd appreciate it. Looks like I found a spot worth supporting many times again! Friendly staff! Great seating area, and it's fun! I had a great time visiting again.
I've been seeing the trending videos on Above Ground for a while. So I figured I'd give it a try. My son was actually the one interested in fish n chips. I was shocked because he tends to be a picky eater. We came to Union Market right around 5ish. Place wasn't too crowded on a Friday evening. I always love seeing the menu as it does offer a variety of British staples. My kids devoured almost all of his fish. There was a nice crisp to the filets and the chips were well seasoned. My only "complaint" is not having a cheaper option or smaller portion. It comes with a lot of food, which you hope so for paying $20 for fresh, quality, authentic food!
Finally had the chance to try Above Ground in Union Market and was not disappointed! The food was made to order and I burned the roof of my mouth because I was starving and dying to try the meal! It was totally worth getting third-degree burns in my esophagus!! I tried the Governor's Fish 'n Chips and it was immaculate! The fish was a huge fillet and the batter was well seasoned and the fish was fresh! I dipped it in the tartar sauce which speaks volumes for me as I rarely use tartar sauce to dip my fried seafood in. Mushy peas were great too not a way I normally eat peas but I digged it! The chips were well seasoned as well. Def gotta come back and try their meat pies. The steak and ale pie is calling to me!
I like to consider myself a fried potato connoisseur. After seeing this place on TikTok and making a mental note of it, I happened to be in the area of Union Market yesterday and decided to pay Above Ground a visit. I am so happy I did. First off, let's give this place a shout for their commitment to giving an authentic experience to the people of the DMV looking for a chip shop vibe. The Lucazade... the Irn-Bru... the selection of UK sweets... everything gave that feeling of a chip shop that I long for as a U.S. citizen who dreams of living in London one day. The service was very personal and charming - I spoke with the owner a bit and he seemed like a guy I'd love to talk to at a house party. He's clearly passionate about what he does and he keeps things moving along while also taking time to get to know the customers. I ordered the chips and if I were to say the portions were generous, that would be an understatement. We love a place who gives good value for the price which, don't get it twisted, these fried potatoes were like $15 or so but it was *easily* enough to share with 2-3 other people. *And* generous portions don't always mean quality -- this place knows ball. Easily the BEST fried potato, fries or otherwise, I've had in the DMV. Not even a competition. Crispy, yet fluffy on the inside. Surprisingly light and airy despite how thick cut they are. And they don't feel heavy or overly greasy. This place is officially on my hit list for the future -- can't wait to try the sausage roll and the beans on toast (my fave). Worth noting: this spot in located inside the Food Hall in Union Market so you have to find it in the food court. It's also a smaller stall and easy to miss if you don't know where you're going. But it's well worth the effort.
I discovered Above Ground through an Instagram post and knew that I had to try it the next time I was in DC! Well, it did now disappoint! It definitely tastes like it's from a British chip shop. The flavors are authentic and the food was fresh and piping hot upon delivery. I am not a tartar sauce or mushy peas kind of girl, but I still tried them both. They were DELICIOUS and really amped up the flavor of the fish and chips! I'll have to go again, this time in-person, to catch a FIFA World Cup game to really get the authentic British pub experience!
Wow, the fish and chips were delicious and the highlight of my visit to the Union Market. Got to have it fresh out of the fryer on the spot to truly enjoy this crispy and fresh cut of fish with potato wedges. The fish was quite a sizable portion and was tender and moist inside. The potato wedges were crispy and delicious with a crunch. The seasoning was just right and the portions were quite filling. After walking around the whole Union Market, I really can say Above Ground is on the top of the list for this visit. I will have to try more on the menu like the meat pies and cheese pies. The candy section was quite different from traditional plain chocolate, so that would be a plus in my book.
I had the fish and chips. It comes with one piece of fish on a plate of fries. The fish is flacky, thick and tender. It's beer battered, a bit doughy inside and no seasoning, not even a hint of salt. If I return, I'd probably try some of the other unique items.
Tucked inside Union Market and it did not disappoint. The fish sandwich is HUGE, honestly big enough to feed two maybe three people. If you have not tried it yet you need to. You MIGHT be able to finish it solo if you are really hungry but I suggest bringing someone to help you out. Good vibes, friendly staff and the fries were solid too. Go check them out.
Came here after work because we saw the instagram reviews and wanted to try this place for ourselves. We ordered the Governor. Well folks here's the honest truth. This place food is trash! GARBAGE! The fish is heavily BREADED fish non existent soaked in grease, them wedges salty as hell soaked in grease as well, tartar sauce sour it's something in it that just doesn't sit well for my taste, then mashed pea's I'm not even attempting to taste them. I don't know who these folks are making this place a spot to come eat at. How ever much money they made to say the food was good I hope you spent it on getting your stomach pumped and asked for forgiveness for making this place a good fish and chips spot. The service subpar nothing to rave about. Ambiance? It's Union Market of course it's esthetically pleasing. 0/10 would not recommend. I hope this review reaches the masses so this place can cease to exist because ain't no way it should still be open.
Had my first experience at Aboveground as a gluten sensitive person and was blown away! Food: I ordered the Chicken Tikka Masala and Chips. The tikka masala was the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Definitely a bit sweeter than an Indian tikka masala which I liked! The chips have been rated best in DC and I can see why. Perfectly seasoned and crispy and I enjoyed it with their curry ketchup. They also sell lots of British treats including candy, so we snagged a few of those too! Service: I was lucky enough to come while Chef Nicolas was working and he is the BEST! So personable and you can tell he's super passionate about what he has created. He gave me lots of background about the food from aboveground, the flavors I was tasting, and the history behind the meals. He also let me know the chicken tikka masala is 100% gluten free and the chips are better for someone who may be gluten sensitive since it's fried in a fryer next to gluten and flour may fall into the chips fryer. Overall, had such a great experience and will be back!!
There are so many options at Union Market, but one place that I come back to is AboveGround, Washington DC's very own chipper. When I get the craving for a pubfood experience, I get myself one of their HUGE Fish & Chips and hope that I can finish it. The fish is a gigantic filet of whitefish (cod, I think) that's the size of my forearm, well breaded and crispy but not too greasy. Add some vinegar and it's ready to go. The fries are a little thicker than expected, but they fit the bill with their smooth, starchy chew. You may be stuffed afterwards, but don't forget to get a few bars of British candy bars to enjoy after you get home. Eat here enough, and you'll be tipping your bowler on the way out! Give AboveGround a try - it's definitely worth it!
I've walked around Union Market countless times and for some reason had overlooked AboveGround stall every time. I guess I was always lured to the more complex and intense flavors of the stalls that surround it. But I was in the area recently and read all the glowing reviews on Yelp about their fish and chips and decided that I had to try it for myself. I was blown away by how good it was. They serve you a huge piece of freshly fried perfectly crispy cod on a bed of thick cut chips along with a cup of traditional mushy peas. The fish was perfectly seasoned and moist and served with tartar sauce and malt vinegar. The tartar sauce was nicely balanced between tangy, creamy, and acidic. This was probably the best fish and chips I've had in this area and is worth traveling to Union Market for. Additional, and perhaps most importantly, it was an excellent value at just $19 (not including tax or tip). The service was quick and friendly. I look forward to coming back soon and trying other items on their menu.
Reviews are largely positive. Many highlight the authentic British flavors, crispy, well-seasoned fries, and friendly, passionate staff.
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5 months ago
Came here on a weekday. This isn't a restaurant that you pay a premium to experience the ambience, it is a small stall in an indoor shopping area. That being said the service was fast and the food was excellent. I only tried the Shepard pie but it was definitely one of the better things I've eaten in a long time. The potato topping had a crispy layer almost like a potato chip while the inside had peas beef and other things. It was really good and I could see myself eating them all day. I definitely plan on coming back and trying their other items. read more
7 months ago
1 year ago
Ordered from their place at Union Market. I loved seeing the spread of chocolates they had available. Unfortunately the chocolates are pretty pricey so I didn't go crazy eating all the nostalgic treats. I would like to come back to try their fish and chips, this time around I stuck with a pie. What we got: Chicken and leek pie - 3.5* I was a little bit disappointed with the crust. I felt that it could have been thicker as it almost felt non-existent. The inside was nice and creamy and the chicken and leak was pretty good. But once again, it almost felt like it was more of a thicker soup than a satisfying, hearty pie. read more
4 years ago
We love trying a variety of food and restaurants when we go to food halls and this was one of our picks when we were at Union Market. My husband and I only got a sausage roll since we were trying other places too. I've actually never had one before, but I enjoyed this one. I'd happily come back and try more of the menu. read more
I haven't tried much from AboveGround but what I have tried I really like. I love a sausage roll and theirs is pretty good and the sausage even has a slight hint of heat. The fish and chips are the standout. The fish is super crisp and delicious, as are the fries. I couldn't finish it all as the portion is big. I even heated up some later and it was still good. Service is super friendly. I think the few times I've been there I've chatted chatter with the owner/chef, who has been excellent. I highly recommend AboveGround. read more
2 years ago
The fish is well seasoned, tender, and fried to perfection. It goes perfectly well with the bun and coleslaw. read more
This place is a small pocket england in DC. I got the fish and chips and it was great sized portion and nice presentation. All the parts of the dish were great. A solid place for fish in chips not just un union market but in the whole city. read more
10 months ago
Stopped in recently on a whim - overall enjoyed, the sausage roll and steak and ale pie are pretty decent and it's not like these are available many places in dc. the pastry part of them were good, but the inside of both weren't quite there for me. Prices feel expensive for what is more of a snack vs a meal though read more
11 months ago
AboveGround is a new concept in Union Market serving British street food. Having grown up overseas passing through London a few times a year, I'm down for this new food stand. I went on an August Thursday afternoon for lunch. Here's my experience: 1) Food: Keep in mind that British food is less spicy and flavor-forward as other Union Market vendors like TaKorean or Thai Street Food. Appreciating both the spice and bland, I found my sausage roll and braised red cabbage tasty. The bread and sausage combo played well. Candidly, I lost my breath every time I ate a bite of the braised red cabbage due to the intense vinegar, but I enjoyed it. 2) Prices: AboveGround is expensive. The fish and chips cost $17. A shepherd's pie is $15. A chicken and leek pie is $14. Because of the prices, I opted for a $7 sausage roll and $7 braised red cabbage, both way too expensive for what you get. For $14, I expect to leave lunch full, but that wasn't the case. 3) Service: It wasn't friendly, but it was efficient, which I appreciate. The small line flowed well and my food was out within seconds. They put it in a small brown bag with napkins and silverware. 4) Market: Behind the cut-out of the Queen is a little market of products from England like smarties, Heinz baked beans (my favorite) and digestives. If you have a connection to England, you'll appreciate this food stall. If you're a Gallaudet student, you get a 10% discount. read more
5 years ago
Came here for lunch based of a suggestion from a friend who had heard it was opening up but that was all we knew. Always being curious to trying new places we ventured out. We got an order of Fish n Chips, Sausage Roll, mushy peas & two waters totaling $34. Small portions & not cheap but you're in Union Market so real estate is prime. Fish n Chips ~ one piece of fish, served with a lemon wedge, side of mushy peas & steak fries. Fish was hot & flaky but very much on the bland side. Perfectly cooked but unseasoned "chips" & flavorless mushy peas. Sausage Roll ~ this was on the bland side too & incredibly small. Mushy peas ~ the most bland of all (zero flavor) & very soupy for mushy peas - literally thought I was eating subpar pea soup. This was the most flavorless, under-seasoned meal I have eaten since I don't know when. The only saving grace to our food was the sauces, thank you sauces!!! The curry ketchup saved the day & was very delicious. We were also given HP sauce & malt vinegar. This place just opened recently so they do not have their liquor license yet - the guy said they'd be serving in two weeks (today's date 7/24/21). No cause for concern as all of the other venues in the market sell whatever libation you are looking for if you so desire. To top it off, the guy at the register seemed annoyed & irritated by questions from any customers that were asking. At one point he rather curtly answered an inquiry from two girls to talk over top of them & flirt with another girl sitting at the table directly across from the counter. I give three stars because they are so new and hopefully they will iron out the kinks but I won't be back anytime soon to find out. read more
1 year ago
4 years ago
In a place chock full of options, this place stuck out the most. The workers were kind, and the food was quickly prepared. The chips were great, on the saltier side of things. The sausage was a bit dry, so if i were to go here again id probably try something else. They also provided several different sauces like mustard, ketchup, and vinegar. read more
Staff is really friendly. Found the little gem while walking around and seeing what the market and taking in all of the offerings. I loved this place they had some candies that I remember from my last trip there. They even had the different pies!! read more
3 years ago
Amazing fries and a large portion of crispy fish. Was ready in about 10 minutes and delicious! read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
It took me a bit to get over the shock of getting one piece of fish for over $20, but the flavor and quality was spectacular. Appropriately crunchy chips and mouth watering fish didn't fail me. It left me with a hankering for even more, although it wasn't particularly filling. This was my mother's first bite at union market and she was satisfied with the flavor as well. read more
I haven't been to Union Station in years and was excited for the new selection of booths. After some browsing the ecclectic decor and funky menu of AboveGround peaked my interst. I went with the standard fish and chips with mushy peas but honestly their pies, tarts and even chicken tikka masala looked very good. I apprecited how authentic and British everything from the decor to the produce they were selling and excited for my meal. My favorite part of the whole dish was the curry mayo which they should bottle and sell. It goes perfectly with the fried fish and fries which were also excellent and not too oily. Portions are massive and it also comes with a small portion of mushy peas so you don't have to order it on the side. Overall, great flavors and the guys working there are fantastic. Prices are a bit high is the only drawback butI'm sure this is due to the crazy renter fees. read more
4 years ago
Overall: 8/10 Taste: 10/10 - One of the best fried fish I have ever had. The batter was very thin light and crisp. The fish was very juicy and flaky even though the piece of fish was huge. The fries were decent and well fried. Price: 8/10 - $20 for fish and chips was a little too much for my liking even though the piece of fish was big Service: 7/10 - The workers seemed like they were tired of being there and didn't seem to care that much Ambience: 7/10 - The place is located in Union market which is a plus but the shop itself looked a bit like a convenience store and diner combined read more
3 years ago
Excellent fish and chips, and a delightful and hospitable owner. Forget other imitations of fish and chips, get yourself to Union market and embrace the calories!!!!!! read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
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5 years ago
First thing you notice is the excellent customer service. The owner is super friendly and the cook, so you can bet the food is delicious. The sausage was perfect and the flaky crust made it even better. The pie is seasoned good and again the crust is flaky. I came for the fish and it did not disappoint. Not a fan of curry, but the puff was not bad. I definitely plan to return. read more
3 years ago
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5 years ago
Best fish and chips in DC, hands down. The Shepherds pie was also really tasty. Chef Nick is awesome! read more
3 years ago
How hard is it to get a two item order right. I ordered a simple order and it was wrong. I ordered battered sausage and chips. The container label is right but inside the container was some sort of pie. I Wouldn't know how good or bad the food is as I didn't get any but the service isn't that great. read more
Business owner information
Nicholas M.
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5 years ago
Wow the staff are so friendly and the decorations hit the nail on the head! You truly feel like you're ordering from a pub counter. I loved their chicken and leek pie; the sauce was so creamy, the chicken tender and the pie crust buttery. I also couldnt resist the chips, which were super crispy and salty on the outside, soft on the inside (perfect). The curry ketchup is a winner for sauce! Finally, they have a cute little pantry with British groceries you'd be hard pressed to find elsewhere, so I grabbed some chocolate covered digestives. Such a fun concept and the food was amazing! Def recommend as a top Union Market vendor. read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
