The 'Oscars' of the seafood industry have landed, pinpointing exactly where Brits should be going for their fish and chips.

The National Fish and Chip Awards 2026 honoured the leading figures in the food sector, crowning the victors for both Restaurant and Takeaway of the Year.

The ceremony also acknowledged the runners-up, exceptional establishments in their own right, having competed against the 10,500+ chippy operators eligible to enter the contest.

Shortlisted candidates, to be deemed credible contenders, must exhibit 'extensive product knowledge, sustainable business practices, employer integrity, top-notch customer service' and, naturally, expertise in crafting delectable fish and chips.

What's particularly noteworthy is that both winners, plus four of the six total commended establishments, are all in Yorkshire - arguably solidifying its status as the true home of the British chippy.

Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year

Securing the top spot for the nation's finest takeaway for traditional fish and chips was The Scrap Box in York.

The business was founded with aspirations to serve all the villages dotted between York and Pocklington, whilst also catering to visitors heading towards the campsites and coastal areas along the route.

The two co-owners of the establishment, brothers Aman and Gavin Dhesi, are thrilled with their achievement.

Gavin stated: "There are so many outstanding fish and chip shops across the UK and countless awards, but this is the one every chippy dreams of, the 'Oscars' of our industry!".

"With the most rigorous judging and the highest calibre of past winners, it's a true honour to be recognised at this level.

"To represent the very best of fish and chips for the year ahead is both humbling and hugely meaningful to our team and a testament to the craft, care, and consistency we put into every portion of fish and chips."

Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year

Claiming the top spot for 2026 as the nation's finest fish and chip restaurant was Trenchers of Whitby in Whitby, Yorkshire.

Originally opened in 1980, this eatery is far from being a newcomer and has firmly established itself within the industry over the years, perfecting the art of delicious seafood.

Their website explains: "At Trenchers New Quay Road, we fry using the traditional method of beef dripping to ensure the best possible product for our customers.

"With options including seafood salads, crab, lobster, fresh fish, homemade pies and lasagnes, Whitby scampi, vegetarian options and a dedicated children's menu, there truly is something for everyone."

Among the runners-up are several exceptional chippies and eateries also carving out reputations within the sector, and remarkably, many of the winners hail from Yorkshire.

Securing the second spot for the best fish and chip takeaway was The Fish Works, situated in Largs, Scotland, with Shaws Fish and Chips of Dodworth in Barnsley, Yorkshire, clinching the third position.

Meanwhile, in the contest for restaurant of the year accolades, second place was awarded to the highly esteemed Noah's in Bristol. Third place was bagged by Whitby's Restaurant and Take Away in - you've guessed it - Yorkshire, specifically in Rotherham.

Andrew Crook, president of the National Federation of Fish Friers, who was a part of this year's judging panel, said: "It's been clear from the start that those competing came with serious agendas to elevate industry best practice like never before, and we are so proud to say these are the winners!".

He added: "Fish and chip businesses are the backbone of the takeaway space; the heritage is like no other, and our winners represent tradition and the future to the highest degree."