Fish City named one of UK’s 10 Best Fish & Chip Restaurants at Fry Awards 2026
Fish City in Belfast has been named as one of the UK’s 10 Best Fish & Chip Restaurants 2026 - the only dine-in chippy in Northern Ireland to make the prestigious list.
It follows a mystery dining visit by leading trade publication Fry Magazine in which judges meticulously inspected aspects including food quality, premises cleanliness, staff expertise, value for money, ease of ordering, and social media presence.
With the pass mark set high at 96%, Fish City scored an impressive 97% with the mystery diner particularly praising the cosy ambience in the restaurant, professional and friendly service, the excellent quality of the fish and chips, and the overall dining experience. Mystery shoppers said, “The staff were extremely well presented and professional in appearance and in their manner. They were completely focused on their customers.” Commenting on the food, they noted, “The fish was tasty and white, and the chips were very good.”
John Lavery, owner of Fish City, said: “What an honour it is to make the 10 Best for now our fifth year in a row. This means so much to our team and is fantastic recognition of the hard work and the good work done here day-in and day-out to provide our guests with healthy, sustainable food of quality and warm, friendly, and welcoming service. Thank you as always to our loyal customers for your support and to Fry Magazine and the award sponsors.”
Reece Head, competition organiser, says: “Congratulations to Fish City. Over the past 12 months, they have faced significant challenges, including higher wage costs, rising energy bills and exceptional pressure on fish prices. Despite this, they have maintained consistently high standards, supported and motivated their teams, and kept customers informed as changes were needed. That commitment was evident to our mystery judges and is what secured them a place among the UK’s leading fish and chip shops. An exceptionally high pass mark of 96% was set this year, demonstrating the consistently high shop standards in place.
“Their success proves that our nation’s favourite takeaway remains nutritious, great value and stronger than ever.
Fry Magazine’s 10 Best Fish & Chip Restaurants is in its 14th year and sponsors include Frymax, Seafood from Norway, Pukka, KFE, The NFFF, McWhinney’s Sausages, BD Signs & BDigital, Superior Frying Fat, VA Whitley, Henry Colbeck, Sarson’s, Central Foods, Hopkins and Kerry.
Contact details:
Fish City
33 Ann Street
Belfast BT1 4EB
If you would like to arrange an interview with John Lavery, please call 02890231000.