From a family-run Chinese to classic fish and chips, Big John reveals his favourite spots to eat in London
Big John reveals favourite restaurants in London
Big John is a viral sensation on social media thanks to his larger-than-life personality and love for food. Real name John Fisher, the East Londoner is the father of professional boxer Johnny Fisher and has built a loyal fanbase online known as the ‘Bosh Army’.
He is best known for his booming catchphrase “Bosh!”, his appetite for Chinese food and infectious videos raving about restaurants in London. MyLondon caught up with him at the BGC Charity Day where he opened up about his favourite places to eat in his hometown of Romford.
Big John is also known to rave about Romford Chinese restaurant The Blue Orchid, on North Street. He said about his number one restaurant: “When you go to a good restaurant, the food may be excellent, but it’s the people that make a difference.”
He added: “At The Blue Orchid, you feel like you’re going from home to home. And they’ve been the same family business for 60 years. I’ve been going there since I was probably 10 years of age. It’s just a wonderful place. They treat everyone with respect. They treat everyone like your family. And the food really is the best.”
He said his go-to dishes include the crispy aromatic duck, salt and chili king prawns and kung po prawns. John added: “There’s too many to name, but it’s a wonderful place.”
Big John also shared some of his other local favourites. He said: “We’ve got The Rabbits pub, we’ve got Chariots Fish and Chips, we’ve got Ginger Spice Indian. There’s so many good eating places in London. Especially now it’s becoming more diverse with the trends. They’re popping up all over the place.”
The Rabbits is a much-loved country pub in Stapleford Abbotts, just north of Romford. Known for its homemade dishes, real ales and warm atmosphere, it’s a cosy spot whether you’re enjoying a Sunday roast inside or a drink in the garden.
Chariots Fish and Chips is another Romford staple, famous for its seafood-focused menu. With an emphasis on quality and sustainability, the chippy prides itself on serving fresh and frozen fish that keeps customers coming back.
Meanwhile, Ginger Spice Indian is a stylish restaurant that has been serving Romford locals since 2015. With a menu of refined Indian dishes, elegant décor and a reputation for warm hospitality, it’s become a go-to for anyone craving authentic flavours.
As the debate continues over whether Romford belongs to London or Essex, Big John gave his own verdict. He said: “Romford used to be Essex, it’s now London Borough of Havering. So technically it’s London, but in our hearts it’s still Essex. Bosh!”
He added: “But big shout out to London, it’s the best city in the world.” Big John was part of BGC’s annual Charity Day, which returned on September 11. The event marked 20 years of fundraising in memory of colleagues lost in the 9/11 attacks, with celebrities from sport, film, music and TV helping to raise millions.
Supporting the cause, Big John chose to back Haven House Children’s Hospice and St Francis Hospice. He said: “My dad passed away from cancer 12 years ago, and St Francis were there to support him and my mum. So they’ll always have a special place in my heart.”
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