National Fish & Chip Awards names chippies on course for first Menu Innovation prize

The 38^th edition of the UK awards launched the inaugural Menu Innovation prize to honour eateries with exciting, modernised food options, including taking classic flavours and textures and interpreting them in fresh ways which cater to a variety of tastes and dietary requirements without losing the essence of the chippy tradition. Amongst the approaches taken, businesses have introduced different species of fish from UK waters and beyond onto menus, turned plant-based ingredients into golden, battered creations and provided gluten-free options.

A panel of experts reviewing contenders’ menus have assessed the thinking behind the menu concepts and skills involved, taking into consideration flavour profile selection, sustainable viability and how each chippy is able to balance creativity with a consistently outstanding product.

The three businesses with standout dedication to elevating the fish and chip experience: are Fisk & Frite in Bristol, Harrison’s Fish and Chip Co in Oxford, and Knights Fish Restaurant in Glastonbury.

Andrew Crook is President of the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), which runs the annual event and is also the category sponsor. He said that having alternative types of fish and a variety of items for customers to discover adds a point of difference for chippies and offers an opportunity to boost business and environmental sustainability measures without compromising on flavour and price.

“The launch of Menu Innovation has been a brilliant platform for fish and chip shops to showcase their imagination and passion for the industry,” Crook said. “Business owners have a shifting landscape, high customer expectations and diverse dietary preferences to consider and manage, so it’s a fine balance to devise a menu which ultimately satisfies the requirements.

“It takes a touch of genius to be able to develop an offering that has longevity and respects the heritage and customs of the fish and chip craft while reimagining it so it’s inclusive to different tastes and budgets. Our finalists are achieving great things and are a wonderful representation of how exciting and dynamic the sector is. All the best to the final three!”

The three finalists will find out which has won the award at the ceremony on 25 February at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London.