This past July 4th, marked 28 year old Edward Strojan’s 2 year anniversary of owner Haddonfield, New Jersey hotspot, The British Chip Shop. From Cherry Hill, Strojan decided to open this one-of-a-kind success story, a few years ago, not realizing the powerhouse it would become. Philly isn’t the only place with amazing restaurants! Get yourself a PATCO pass, and get ready to get transported into Londontown.
Josh: What is your culinary background?
Edward: I don’t have any formal training, but I’ve been cooking since I was a kid. I come from a family of good cooks.
Josh: What made you open a restaurant?
Edward: I knew that I wanted a restaurant, and that was what I wanted to do. I just didn’t know how or when.
Josh: What helped you write your Menu?
Edward: My parents suggested we open a British restaurant, across the street from their British specialty store, The English Gardener Gift Shop.
Josh: Why British though? It’s kind of a rare market in the states.
Edward: There’s an Italian restaurant on every corner. I did some research, visited British restaurants in NYC, and visited London.
Josh: What is the secret to having a successful restaurant?
Edward: Relentless dedication to the concept, as a restaurant is a living breathing thing. It needs to be constantly improved upon. Also, consistency, a good staff, organization, and the food(last but not least)!
Josh: Tell me about your upcoming special events.
Edward: We’ll be showing the Olympics, with a bunch of specials. In September, we’re hosting our Beatles Sing Along, and the Fall Festival in Haddonfield.
For more on The British Chip Shop, go tothebritishchipshop.com