John Gibson: In Hungary there are no fish suppers

The smell gets up their nose. Fifteen fish friers, mainly from Edinburgh, got away from it all, if only for three days. But Budapest did provide a total change of scene.

Says Edinburgh-born Mauro Crolla, part of the family who have owned La Campagnola, the West End chippie, for close on 30 years: “We’d never been to Hungary and somebody said it’s the place to go for a fun break. We weren’t disappointed with Budapest but what we did notice about the city was the dearth of fish and chip shops.

“Next time if we go back we’ll have to educate them gastronomically,” quips Mauro, adding: “A lot of fish suppers have been sold here over the years to hungry customers over and under the Dean Bridge.

“More than ever in these tough times we’re seeing blokes come in pin stripe-suited and slipping a fish supper into their brief case.

“It’s true, by the way. The irresistible smell of fish and chips can get right up your nose. To get away from it for a few days was like a breath of fresh air.”

I’m cornered

Location, location, location. Reader Kenny of Morningside rights my wrong. I said the Leaf & Bean, relatively new tea and coffee shop at the foot of Comiston Road, is at Holy Corner when, in fact, Holy Corner is further down the road at Bruntsfield.

I’m taking the liberty, and jesting, of reminding Kenny that Holy Corner decamped for the day for this column. The Lord can move in mysterious ways.