OXFORD CHIPPY TOPS THE BILL AT NATIONAL FISH & CHIP AWARDS FOR MENU INNOVATION

Oxford chippy tops the bill at National Fish & Chip Awards for menu innovation. Oxfordshire’s Harrison’s Fish and Chip Co has taken first ‘plaice’ in the Menu Innovation Award category at the recent National Fish & Chip Awards – the official competition for the industry.

The awards are run by fish frying experts who all run their own successful chippies and for almost four decades, the prestigious event has been recognising and rewarding true champions of the trade that excel across sustainability, food safety, customer service and delivering high-quality food consistently.

The inaugural Menu Innovation category is dedicated to operators that are bringing new ideas to the table, with diversified options that advance the cherished tradition while preserving its authenticity.

The trio of finalists included Bristol’s Fisk & Frite and Knights Fish Restaurant in Glastonbury, Somerset, which the judges praised for delicious fusion and plant-based takes on the classic. But it was Harrison’s Fish and Chip Co that was crowned the winner for its highly successful introduction of alternative species to its offering.

Recognising the need to be agile amidst industry market challenges, the team at Harrison’s launched ‘Cornish Specials’ a menu offering nutritious and delicious, lesser-known fish species, such as lemon sole, rock salmon, and Torbay sole and coley, not typically available in Oxford. This strategic, timely move proved a hit with customers who have been enjoying new tastes and variety of choice.

Ryan Harrison, co-owner of Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co, says it has been important to keep to what customers love while noting that the specials menu is very popular and sells out most evenings. He was presented with the trophy by the event’s emcee, TV presenter and actor Stephen Mangan.

Speaking of becoming the new industry champion, Ryan says:

“We are incredibly proud to have won the Menu Innovation Award, recognising our passion for creativity and our commitment to evolving while staying true to the heritage of great fish and chips.

“This achievement highlights our strong relationships with local fisherman and our focus on offering an exciting range of freshly caught Cornish fish. We extend our thanks to the judges for their recognition and insightful feedback. Most importantly, we thank our fantastic team and our loyal customers at Harrisons for their enthusiasm, support and willingness to embrace new and sustainable fish choices.”

Sponsoring the category is the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), which also oversees the UK’s official industry competition. Its President Andrew Crook offers his congratulations:

“The Menu Innovation Award was created to celebrate operators which are breaking new ground in a responsible and customer-first way.

“Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co has shown great creativity to bring fresh flavours while maintaining the high standards and quality that set the best fish and chip shops apart. The menu reflects care, attention to detail and addresses sustainability and nutritional value without losing the essence of what the chippy experience means to people.

“‘Cornish Specials’ is a perfect balance of tradition and innovation and this award is the highest industry honour, to say ‘well done’ and ‘thank you’ for respecting the legacy of fish and chips while embracing future vision.”

Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co and the other winners from the awards have been invited on an exclusive study trip to Norway, hosted on board the long-liner vessel Geir, where they will see first-hand how Norwegian seafood is responsibly sourced at sea. The visit will give operators direct insight into the country’s science-led fisheries model, helping to bring origin, provenance and sustainability to life.

For more information and bits on the National Fish & Chip Awards, please visit: www.nfff.co.uk/awards.

Image: NFFF