Four Cumbrian business have been named in the UK’s top 50 best fish and chip takeaways.
Shap Chippy, Priory Plaice Fish And Chips in Ulverston, Frydays of Kendal and the Esk Cafe in Longtown have all been included in the Fry Magazine’s top 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways 2021.
Shappy Wheels, based out of Appleby, also made the top 10 mobile units – the only mobile operator in Cumbria to make the list.
Results in the top 50 are not ranked, with only a list of the 50 announced.
To make the 50 best and top 10, the firms had to impress a mystery diner who visited unannounced and mark them on more than 40 aspects of their business, from the quality of the food and customer service to their social media presence and their COVID safe practices.
With the pass mark set high at 97 per cent, Shap Chippy scored an impressive 99 per cent with the mystery diner particularly praising the exceptionally high quality of the food, great service and outstanding COVID safe measures.
Shappy Wheels achieved 98 per cent with the pass mark set at 92 per cent for mobile units.
“Ordering online was very easy, my order was ready on my arrival and piping hot! crispy batter and fluffy chips, they went down a treat,” was just one of the positive comments given by Shappy Wheels’ mystery diner, alongside praise for their customer service: “you could see the staff take great pride in what they serve and were very knowledgeable.”
Matt Phillips, co-owner of Shap Chippy/Shappy Wheels, said: “We are over the moon not just to win one but two awards its truly amazing, we are so proud of our teams that work so hard every day.”
Ashley Phillips, also co-owner, added: “To achieve this in our first year of setting up Shappy Wheels is so great and a true testament of how hard the staff work.
“It’s very different being on the road to the shop, but we love it and so do our many customers.”
Reece Head, competition organiser, commented: “We’re delighted to acknowledge that, despite the difficulties and added pressure, Shap Chippy & Shappy never let standards drop.
“During this pandemic, they have been at the heart of their communities, with a smile on their faces and hot food in their hands. We’re proud to have them in our 50 Best Fish & Chip Takeaways for 2021 & UK’s 10 Best Mobile Units.”
