The Laughing Halibut
Inspection Scores
Lower scores indicate better performance. 0 = best, 25/30 = worst.
The Laughing Halibut is a takeaway/sandwich shop located at 18 Whitchurch Road, Pangbourne, Reading, West Berkshire, RG8 7BP, in the West Berkshire local authority area. Following its most recent inspection on 11 May 2026, it received a food hygiene rating of 3 (Generally Satisfactory). The inspection assessed three categories: hygienic food handling (scored 10 — good), structural compliance (scored 10 — good), and confidence in management (scored 10 — good). In the FHRS scoring system, lower numbers indicate better performance, with 0 being the best possible score in each category. West Berkshire oversees 435 registered food businesses, of which 80% hold a rating of Good (4) or Very Good (5). The average food hygiene rating in West Berkshire is 4.8 out of 5. As a takeaway or sandwich shop, this business is assessed on food preparation practices, packaging hygiene, temperature control during storage and delivery, and the cleanliness of preparation areas. Food businesses in the UK are inspected by local authority environmental health officers. The frequency of inspections depends on the risk category — higher-risk businesses are inspected more frequently, typically every 6 to 12 months, while lower-risk establishments may be inspected every 2 to 3 years. Businesses that are not satisfied with their rating can request a re-inspection from their local authority or apply for a right to reply, which is published alongside the rating on the FSA website.
Details
- Business Type
- Takeaway/sandwich shop
- Address
- 18 Whitchurch Road, Pangbourne, Reading, West Berkshire
- Postcode
- RG8 7BP
- Local Authority
- West Berkshire
- Scheme Type
- FHRS
- FHRS Business ID
- 202939
Location
Nearby Businesses
- Lina Tandoori 3
- Pangbourne Cafe 5
- Greens Of Pangbourne 5
- The George Hotel 4
- Cozze Restaurant 5
- Ada Meyhane 5
- No 11 Bistro AwaitingInspection
- Oxfam Exempt
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- B&B AwaitingInspection
Related Pages
FAQ
What is the food hygiene rating of The Laughing Halibut?
The Laughing Halibut has a food hygiene rating of 3 out of 5, as assessed by West Berkshire.
What does a food hygiene rating of 3 mean for a takeaway/sandwich shop?
A rating of 3 means hygiene standards are generally satisfactory but some improvement is needed. The inspector found areas where standards could be raised, and the business should take steps to address these issues before the next inspection.
When was The Laughing Halibut last inspected?
The Laughing Halibut was last inspected on 2026-05-11. Food businesses in the UK are typically re-inspected every 6 months to 3 years, depending on their risk category and previous rating.
How can The Laughing Halibut improve its rating?
Businesses can improve their food hygiene rating by addressing the issues identified in their inspection report. Common areas for improvement include better temperature control, improved cleaning schedules, and stronger documentation of food safety procedures. Businesses can request a re-inspection from their local authority once improvements have been made, or apply for a right to reply.
Where is The Laughing Halibut located?
The Laughing Halibut is located at 18 Whitchurch Road, Pangbourne, Reading, West Berkshire , RG8 7BP, in the West Berkshire local authority area. You can view other food businesses in the RG8 postcode area.