The National Fish & Chip Awards 2027 has narrowed its list of 20 contenders to just 10 of the finest fish and chip shops in the UK, with a London establishment making the cut alongside traditional seaside favourites.
Reaching the shortlist is a notable achievement for all 10 venues, which have seen off thousands of competitors to secure their place in one of the industry's most sought-after accolades. While some locations may surprise observers, the selection demonstrates that the best fish and chips in the UK are not always found by the coast.
Coastal Favourites and a London Surprise
Several seaside hotspots have made the top 10, reflecting Britons' enduring fondness for a coastal chippy. However, food lovers may be surprised to find a London establishment among the frontrunners, along with venues in rural settings.
The field will soon be reduced to just five finalists, with the awards ceremony set for next February, when the overall champion will be crowned. The Restaurant of the Year title is widely considered the gold standard in the industry, as it assesses every element of what makes a truly great fish and chip shop.
Judging Criteria and Previous Winner's Reaction
Finalists are rigorously judged across categories including food quality, consistency, customer experience, business operations, sustainability, staff development and overall standards before a winner is decided.
Andrew Wilkinson, General Manager of Trenchers of Whitby, which claimed the 2026 Restaurant of the Year title, shared his reaction to the accolade. He said: "Well what a year! By far the best and busiest we've had, and it's still going strong. I am so proud of the team here.
"Since winning Restaurant of the Year, we have created many more full-time positions here at Whitby and also opened the fourth Trenchers Restaurant at Bowness on Windermere."
Offering words of wisdom to this year's newcomers, he added: "I would like to congratulate this year's top ten on your fantastic achievement. Be proud to reach this stage and make sure you tell the world! All the best of luck."
The Top 10 Restaurants
The coastal town of Cromer features on this year's list, alongside an entry from Folkestone in Kent. The selection also includes a fish and chip establishment in the heart of Soho, London, as well as venues in the countryside, proving that the UK's finest can be found virtually anywhere.
The 10 restaurants are:
- Chesters at Vale, Chesterfield.
- Lakeside Fish & Chips, Poole.
- Harbour Fish Bar, Folkestone.
- Golden Union, Soho.
- No1 Cromer.
- The Cod's Scallops, Nottingham.
- Ocean Fish Platter, Ipswich.
- Saltwater Fish & Chips, Felixstowe.
- Whitby's Restaurant & Takeaway, Rotherham.
- The Crab & Lobster Fish Shack, South Queensferry.
The winner will be announced at the awards ceremony in February 2027.
