FAQ's

When are September Pre-Orders Shipping?

Mid September, we expect to be posting 15th September

When are October Pre-Orders Shipping?

Early - Mid October

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Fish Weight by Josh Niland?

The Fish Weight is a professional-grade, food-safe stainless steel press designed by Chef Josh Niland. It keeps fish fillets flat in the pan, ensuring evenly crisp, golden skin without the need to finish in the oven or to flip onto the delicate flesh.

2. How does it work?

Preheat a pan with a thin layer of clarified butter or oil. Place the fish skin-side down, then rest the weight on top of the fillet—centring it over thicker parts if needed. The weight applies even pressure, pressing the fillet flat so it crisps and cooks evenly.

3. How is it different from a burger press?

At first glance, the Fish Weight looks similar to a burger press. But while a burger press is often lightweight and made for flattening ground meat into patties, the Fish Weight is heavier (~1.6 kg) and precision-designed for cooking delicate proteins without tearing. Its weight distribution ensures contact across the whole fillet, something a burger press can’t achieve.

4. Why not just use a cast-iron pan or another heavy object?

Cast-iron pans and makeshift weights are either too bulky, uneven, or reactive with food. The Fish Weight is purpose-built: it’s compact, sleek, distributes weight evenly, and is made of stainless steel—so it won’t rust, react, or damage delicate fish.

5. Do I need to flip the fish when using it?

No flipping is required. With the Fish Weight, you cook the fish entirely skin-side down on the stovetop. The even pressure and heat allow the skin to crisp while the flesh cooks through gently.

6. Can I use it for other foods besides fish?

Yes! Home cooks and chefs alike use it for:

  • Sandwiches: Grilled cheese, Cuban sandwiches, paninis

  • Meat: Steaks, chicken thighs, duck breasts

  • Vegetables: Eggplant, mushrooms, zucchini, potatoes

  • Fermentation: Holding down cabbage for sauerkraut or kimchi

7. What makes it better than a lighter press?

Lighter presses (like many burger presses) don’t provide enough downward force to hold the fish flat, which leads to curling skin and uneven cooking. The Fish Weight’s carefully calculated mass ensures the fish stays completely flat while still being manageable to lift and move.

8. Will it damage delicate fish fillets?

No. Unlike heavy cast iron or makeshift objects, the Fish Weight’s smooth stainless surface is designed to be gentle on fish skin, preventing tearing or sticking while promoting even caramelization.

9. Is it dishwasher safe?

Yes. Made from food-grade stainless steel, the Fish Weight is safe for dishwashers.

10. What are the dimensions and weight?

  • Material: Stainless steel (also available in PVD finishes like copper or black)

  • Weight: Approx. 1.6 kg (~3.5–4 lbs)

  • Diameter: 16 cm (6.3 in)

11. Is it easy to store?

Yes. Unlike bulky cast-iron weights, the Fish Weight is compact and slim. It can be stored flat in a drawer or hung on a wall hook.

12. When will it ship?

The Fish Weight often sells out and goes into pre-order. The ETA for shipping is in your product name for example "Fish Weight Pre-Order for September".

13. Can professional chefs and home cooks both use it?

Definitely. It was originally designed for restaurant kitchens, but its simple design makes it equally useful at home—whether you’re cooking a weeknight fillet of snapper or entertaining guests.

14. What are customers saying?

  • “The Fish Weight has become a staple in our kitchen. It’s beautifully made, and the results speak for themselves.” – L.B.

  • “Exceptional quality. We use it every week—for fish, yes, but also for anything that needs that perfect press.” – Peter L.

  • “I use this fish weight nearly every day… Move over… there’s a new ‘it’ tool in town.” – Bon Appétit reviewer

15. Do you Wholesale?

  • Email us at hello@mrniland.com for Wholesale orders.