Newington Fish Bar had reached the top 40 finalists for the National Fish and Chip Awards – and boss Nigel Derrett says this year they aim to hit the winners’ list.
The Newington Road business is one of just four in London and the south east to make the shortlist for the Fish and Chip Takeaway of the Year category.
Judging criteria included having to demonstrate high levels of knowledge of the fish & chip industry including customer service, and environmental and sustainably good practices.
Nigel said: “We have made the top 20 for quite a few years but never quite made it to the top 10 so hope to do that this year.”
Nigel says the business has a top ingredient for success – and that is the staff.
He said: “Our staff are dedicated and proud of their work. It is a good achievement that they are getting recognised for an award that is the Oscars of the industry.
“It’s also about quality, working well together and communicating through facebook where we explain about sustainability of food – such as my videos field to fork, following the potato to being a chip, and ocean to plate, explaining that process.
The Newington Road business was opened by Nigel and his brother Ken in 1980. The pair were both working in separate, busy restaurants and both had young families when they decided to use their skills and Trust House Forte training to set up a business in their hometown of Ramsgate.
The rest is history.
Andrew Crook, President at The National Federation of Fish Friers said: “Being able to announce the top 40 finalists for this category is an absolute pleasure. It is no secret that the industry are facing some challenges.
“That said, this industry is built upon British stoicism. And with spirit and determination we are committed to supporting our members and seeing through tough times. We cannot wait to celebrate at the awards ceremony in February 2023.”
The National Fish and Chip Awards has been celebrating the nation’s favourite dish for more than 30 years, recognising and rewarding the people and businesses who provide us with the best fish and chips across the UK, both in terms of food and service.
The finalists list will be whittled to the top 20 and then the top 10. The winner will be unveiled at the awards ceremony held at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge on the 28th of February 2023.
Cast your vote for the fish bar here
