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The accolade was announced at a grand ceremony in London on Wednesday (February 26), recognising the very best in the fish and chip industry. Organised by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), the awards, now in their 37th year, celebrate excellence across all aspects of fish and chip businesses, from quality and customer service to sustainability and innovation. Yarm Road Fish and Chips secured the top prize after undergoing rigorous judging, which included interviews, mystery taste tests, and skill assessments.
A delighted Will Burrell, director-manager of Yarm Road Fish and Chips, expressed his amazement at the win. He said: “Well, we can’t quite believe it! We really didn’t think this year would be our year. Yarm Road Fish and Chips - Takeaway of the Year (Image: NATIONAL FISH AND CHIP AWARDS 2025) "Not because of how the process and judging has gone, but purely because of just how unbelievable the rest of the top 10 finalists are.
"To be mentioned alongside these guys is one thing, but to top the list is something we could only dream of! Now somehow, it’s reality.” “Our biggest congratulations and thanks go out to our amazing team. They have worked tirelessly throughout the years and have been so invested in this competition.
"It goes without saying, but without them we would be nowhere near this position we find ourselves in today. To take this trophy home to them makes all the hard work worthwhile.” Since opening eight years ago, Yarm Road Fish and Chips has grown into a staple of the Darlington community.
Recommended reading: Reflecting on the journey, Mr Burrell added: “We have adapted to new situations, overcame hurdles and tried to perfect our craft of the nation’s favourite takeaway. It seems we have got it somewhere near right!” “Huge thanks to all our wonderful customers for supporting our little chippy. And thanks again to the best team in the world.
"To the wider public, keep supporting your local chippy. They are the cornerstone of many communities and there may be some tough times ahead, as we all know. Go and get your chippy teas.
Thank you!” Andrew Crook, president of the NFFF, praised this year’s winners, adding: “The bar for the National Fish & Chip Awards is set higher each year across the criteria the competitors are evaluated against, and our new titleholders have put everything into elevating their menus, sharpening their skills and developing their expertise.” The National Fish & Chip Awards 2025 also saw The Fish Works in Largs, Scotland take second place, while Kellaway’s Fish and Chips in Truro, Cornwall, secured third behind Yarm Road Fish and Chips in the Takeaway of the Year category..
