Celebrity chef and ITV presenter James Martin has pinpointed what he believes is the absolute best fish and chips experience in the United Kingdom, and it's found in his native Yorkshire.
The Pinnacle of Fish and Chips Revealed
Speaking on LNER's Routes podcast, hosted by Jenni Falconer, the Saturday Morning star was asked about his top Yorkshire destinations. Without hesitation, he championed The Magpie Café on the seafront in Whitby. Martin, who was born in Malton, described the eatery's offering as delivering a state of fish and chip "nirvana" to its customers.
He didn't just recommend the venue; he provided a detailed blueprint for the perfect order. According to Martin, diners must request a large haddock, accompanied by mushy peas, lemon, tartar sauce, Sarson's vinegar, and salt.
A Sensory Experience by the Sea
Martin grew enthusiastic as he recalled the full sensory experience of eating the dish. "You sit there and the wind's howling a gale, you sit there and you open up this pot of gold, and then there's just smell as this steam comes up, it hits your nose," he told the podcast.
He vividly added, "The wind howling, but as this steam hits your nose, a little drip of snot drips onto your fish and then you're in nirvana, heaven, you're in the pinnacle of fish and chips." His colourful description underscores the authentic, windswept charm that he believes is integral to the experience.
Proven Popularity and Yorkshire Affection
The Magpie Café that Martin praises is a well-established Whitby institution. It boasts an impressive reputation, with more than four and a half stars out of five from nearly 9,000 Google reviews.
This is not the first time the chef has expressed his deep fondness for Yorkshire. In a previous interview with Food and Travel Magazine, he reminisced about York and the North Yorkshire moors. "I love the North Yorkshire moors, the road from Pickering to Whitby," he said. "When you get to Whitby you've got the best fish and chips and a walk around the arcades."
Despite currently splitting his time between Manchester, Hampshire, and the Cotswolds, Martin has hinted at a possible return. During the podcast chat on January 10, 2026, he stated, "I'll get lynched if I don't end up in Yorkshire. I really do love Yorkshire."
Fans can next see James Martin on his show, James Martin's Saturday Morning, which returns to ITV at 9.30am.
