Quick Bite: Fish & Chips from Alhambra’s Hot Red Bus

A reader recently tipped me off to the charms of Hot Red Bus in Alhambra, and I thought I’d pass the word on to you. The new British-Indian restaurant comes from the creators of Ma Jasmin’s, a mainstay prepared food booth in the Alhambra Farmers’ Market.

The decor of the Main Street location is Brit kitsch while the menu presents references to The Clash and a perked-up selection of Indian and British staples, re-imagined in some cases—stuff like pakora poppers, thick cut “chips” drenched in curry sauce and heaped with beef and lamb doner, jalapeno pakora and somewhat-controversial samosa that are rolled instead of triangular.

The biggest standout for me, though, was the most tradional dish on the menu: the Fish & Chips. Made to order and wrapped in paper (but not newspaper), this giant portion of cod (it comes in half-portion, too) is battered to golden perfection. Like the texture of Pioneer Chicken in the 80s, and I mean that in the best way! The crunch gives way to a moist, flaky piece of fish, and if you like your fries thick with a fair amount of crispiness, this will be your jam.

I’m just going to come out and say it: Hot Red Buses’ Fish & Chips just might be the best in LA. But, there are no pints to be had, so don’t get too excited.

-Valentina

Hot Red Bus
31 E. Main St.,
Alhambra, CA 91801