It's the same when I was growing up in London. We used to have a Pie and Mash shop not far from us which also did takeaway. Never tastes the same when you try to make it at home.
ooh there is only one chippy in Brighton, nay - all of England, and that's Bardsleys on Baker Street. Chips in brown paper bags, and they'll even go and get you a pint to go with it if you ask nicely!