We recently partnered with iconic fish and chips purveyors Harry Ramsden’s to support their relaunch inspired by the company’s 1920s heritage. Drawing on archival images of Harry Ramsden himself and early staff uniforms from the 1930s, Field Grey designed a bespoke look featuring waistcoat-style aprons and a custom-dyed red knitted tie – subtle, refined details that nod to Harry Ramsden’s retro roots without veering into nostalgia.
To mark the occasion, Harry Ramsden’s hosted a special event at their newly reopened Bournemouth branch. Crowds lined the promenade for 7p fish and chips – the same price charged back in 1928 – marking a return to the golden age of the great British seaside.
Inside, the inviting new interiors nod to the elegance of the original Guiseley restaurant. And the new menu boasts nostalgic classics such as the return of beef dripping fish and chips. We were proud to see our new uniforms in action, bringing a touch of sophistication to the buzz of a modern seaside chippy.
While we were there, we chatted to the team to hear their thoughts on the new restaurant and – and, of course, the new Field Grey uniforms. And if you’re planning a visit to Harry Ramsden’s this summer, don’t miss their menu recommendations (spoiler: the curry sauce comes highly rated).
Pankaj, 28, front of house and desserts
Originally from India, Pankaj lived in Spain for 10 years before moving to Bournemouth to be with his wife – who also works at Harry’s! Now part of the front-of-house team, he helps run food and lends a hand with desserts. He’s a fan of the new look, telling us: “I think the refurb looks brilliant, especially the white shirts and aprons.” As for what to order? “I’d recommend the tiramisu or the bread and butter pudding with custard. And the new vanilla and double chocolate ice cream – it’s delicious!”
Anoir, front of house
London-born Anoir is loving the challenge of his first waiting job. ”I used to be a barista, but this is on another level,‘’ he says. Currently studying Business Management at uni, he appreciates the polished new look: “I think the new uniforms make us look a lot smarter and more professional.‘’ His top pick from the menu? “I can never pronounce it – chicken schnitzel? It’s honestly amazing.” As for his go-to chippy order? ‘’I usually go curry sauce over regular cod.”
Jay, 21, bar staff
Jay moved to Bournemouth to study Marketing at uni and joined the team at Harry’s around four months ago. ”I really enjoy it – the bar’s fast-paced, and it’s the part that makes someone have a lovely day.” He’s a fan of the new uniforms, too, with their nod to Harry’s heritage: ”It’s taking it back to where it all started. And now it’s warmer, the white shirts are helping!” Another curry sauce loyalist, he adds mushy peas to his FnC order for good measure.
Enya, 21, shift manager
Enya moved to Bournemouth six months ago to live with her partner and hasn’t looked back. “I love being by the beach,” she says. Now a shift manager at Harry’s, she hit the ground running: “I was thrown in at the deep end, but I really enjoy being busy!” She says the relaunch is “amazing” and loves the new menu. “I tell everyone to try the beetroot cured salmon starter. It’s so good.” So where does she sit on the curry sauce / mushy peas debate? ”I’m not a mushy peas girl, but I am a curry sauce girl.” Well, that’s settled. When she gets a quiet moment, Enya can be found ”crocheting little teddies!”
Hema, 23, front of house
Originally from India, Hema has been in the UK for 18 months, studying for a Master’s in Fine Art and planning to start a PhD next year. “For now I’m working, saving and enjoying life in Bournemouth,” she says. Harry’s is her first job in the UK: “It’s got a special place in my heart.” She loves the new uniforms – “They look so professional and give you a bit of extra confidence” – and as a vegetarian, recommends the halloumi bites, truffle Parmesan fries and, of course, the curry sauce. When she’s not at work, you’ll likely find her painting, sketching or singing.
Ninad, 26, kitchen staff
Ninad recently graduated from a Master’s in Filmmaking and Cinematography and has been at Harry’s for the past year. ”I’m always in the kitchen and I love it. We have a lot of fun in there behind the scenes.” He says the new uniform ”makes me look a bit classy and feel more confident,” and for his menu pick – “Schnitzel and curry sauce!” Outside of work, Ninad is passionate about cinema, photography, reading and anime.
Esha, 20, front of house
Born and raised in Bournemouth, Esha is studying Pharmacy in London but comes back to work at Harry’s every summer. “I love the busy vibe and chatting with customers,” she says. The new uniforms get a big thumbs-up: “The trousers are really comfortable and the red and black works really well with the interiors theme.” Menu favourites so far include the beef brisket and haddock with – you guessed it – curry sauce. And the best part of the job? “Finishing a shift and heading straight to the beach.”