Yorkshire has long been known for its love of fish and chips, and it seems that their passion for this quintessential British dish has paid off. The county’s fish and chip takeaways and restaurants have recently dominated the National Fish and Chip Awards 2026, taking home the top prizes in both the Restaurant and Takeaway of the Year categories.
The National Fish and Chip Awards, organized by Seafish, are considered the Oscars of the fish and chip industry. Each year, they recognize the best fish and chip businesses across the UK, celebrating their commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. And this year, it was Yorkshire’s time to shine.
The county’s chippies beat out tough competition from all over the country, impressing the judges with their exceptional standards and dedication to serving the perfect fish and chips. The winning restaurants and takeaways were chosen based on a rigorous judging process, which included mystery dining visits, taste tests, and assessments of their sustainability practices.
Taking home the coveted title of Restaurant of the Year was The Magpie Cafe in Whitby. This iconic eatery, located on the picturesque Yorkshire coast, has been serving up delicious fish and chips since 1937. With its charming seaside location and commitment to using only the freshest, sustainably sourced fish, it’s no wonder The Magpie Cafe caught the judges’ attention.
In the Takeaway of the Year category, it was the family-run business, Scotts Fish and Chips, that came out on top. Located in the village of Helmsley, this traditional fish and chip shop has been serving hungry customers for over 30 years. The judges were particularly impressed by their use of local ingredients and their efforts to reduce their environmental impact.
But it wasn’t just these two winners that put Yorkshire on the map at the National Fish and Chip Awards. The county also had a strong presence in other categories, with several businesses being recognized as finalists. This included The Wetherby Whaler, which was a finalist for the Best Newcomer Award, and The Fisherman’s Wife in Whitby, which was a finalist for the Best Seafood Week Campaign Award.
The success of Yorkshire’s fish and chip businesses at the National Fish and Chip Awards is a testament to the county’s long-standing love affair with this classic British dish. For generations, Yorkshire residents have flocked to their local chippies for a taste of their famous fish and chips, and it’s clear that their dedication has paid off.
But it’s not just about the delicious food. Yorkshire’s fish and chip businesses also prioritize sustainability and responsible sourcing, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this beloved dish. By using locally caught fish and implementing eco-friendly practices, these businesses are setting an example for the rest of the industry.
The National Fish and Chip Awards 2026 have once again highlighted Yorkshire’s position as a leader in the fish and chip industry. The county’s winning restaurants and takeaways have proven that they are not only masters of their craft but also champions of sustainability and innovation. And as the rest of the country looks to Yorkshire for inspiration, it’s safe to say that the future of fish and chips is in good hands.
