The UK National Fish & Chip Awards has revealed the five finalists competing for the coveted Restaurant of the Year title for 2026, narrowing the field by half as the competition enters its final stage.
Renowned for setting the benchmark for excellence in the UK’s fish and chip sector for nearly four decades, the awards recognise restaurants that deliver outstanding quality, sustainability and customer experience.
This year’s finalists represent four regions of England:
Bristol: Noah’s
Devon: Squires Fish Restaurant & Takeaway, Braunton
Norfolk: No1 Cromer
Yorkshire: Trenchers of Whitby; Whitby’s Restaurant & Takeaway, Rotherham
Organised by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), the competition puts each entrant through a comprehensive audit of operations, from sourcing policies and menu innovation to customer service and team development.
“We are so excited for these five businesses which have been set apart as the UK’s foremost fish and chip restaurants,” said Andrew Crook, NFFF President. “The contenders have such love for what they do, selecting only quality produce for customers and placing attention to detail into how the fish, potatoes and other ingredients are prepared and cooked. Having restaurants like these in our towns and cities is essential for keeping our great British tradition alive.”
This year’s category is sponsored by the Q Partnership – Friars Pride, Henry Colbeck and VA Whitley – three family-owned suppliers with more than 280 years of combined sector experience.
Luke Townsend, Marketing Manager at Friars Pride, said reaching the final five represents “the pinnacle of achievement in our industry,” noting that all finalists have demonstrated exceptional commitment to quality, innovation, and customer experience. He added: “We are delighted to play a direct role in celebrating and championing such a high level of excellence within our industry.”
Judges will now undertake anonymous in-restaurant visits to assess food quality, service and the overall dining experience before selecting a winner. The champion will be announced at an awards ceremony on 25 February 2026 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London, succeeding current titleholder Bells Fish & Chips (Framwellgate Moor, Durham).
Beyond national recognition, the winner and two runners-up will also enjoy a sector-focused study trip to Iceland’s Westfjords, supported by Seafood from Iceland, offering a first-hand look at one of the world’s most respected seafood supply chains.
The awards continue to underscore the importance of the UK’s sit-in fish and chip dining tradition – a segment that not only anchors local food culture but also contributes to coastal tourism and community economies.
