The city of Bath is celebrating a major culinary triumph as a local favourite, The Scallop Shell, has been officially recognised as one of the United Kingdom's ten best fish and chip restaurants.
National Acclaim for a Local Gem
In the highly anticipated Fry Awards 2026, this beloved Bath seafood spot has secured a coveted position in the national top ten for the restaurant category. The awards, now in their thirteenth year, are known for their rigorous judging process, which involves months of unannounced visits by inspectors.
Judges meticulously assess every aspect of an establishment, from the quality and freshness of the food to hygiene standards, customer service, and overall value for money. Only venues achieving an exceptional score of 96% or higher are honoured with a ranking, a benchmark that The Scallop Shell successfully met.
A Celebrity Chef's Favourite
This is not the first time The Scallop Shell has garnered prestigious praise. The restaurant proudly counts the legendary Marco Pierre White among its most famous patrons. According to the restaurant's website, the celebrated chef has declared it his absolute favourite, stating: "My favourite restaurant in all of Wiltshire and Somerset is, without question, The Scallop Shell – it serves just the finest food."
Located away from the coast, the restaurant's success challenges the notion that the best fish and chips are exclusively found in seaside towns, proving that exceptional quality can be found inland.
What Diners Can Expect
Inside, guests are treated to a warm and welcoming atmosphere defined by timber features and a shabby-chic aesthetic. The menu is a dedicated celebration of seafood, with a strong commitment to fresh, sustainable catch sourced directly from UK waters.
The two-level eatery offers a more intimate dining space upstairs, which is available for exclusive hire. The Scallop Shell is open for both lunch and evening service throughout the week, closing at 3pm on Sundays.
The restaurant's reputation is firmly backed by glowing reviews from delighted customers. One recent Tripadvisor review raved, "Probably one of the best date nights we've had... The food was beautifully presented and fresh." Another visitor praised the "best cod in batter I've had," highlighting the excellent service and the evident pride the staff take in their restaurant.
