Harrison’s Fish and Chip Co Triumphs at National Fish & Chip Awards

Menu Innovation Recognized as Harrison’s Takes Top Honors

Oxfordshire’s Harrison’s Fish and Chip Co has clinched the top spot in the Menu Innovation Award category at the prestigious National Fish & Chip Awards. This event highlights the industry’s best, celebrating excellence in sustainability, food safety, customer service, and the consistent delivery of high-quality meals.

A New Category for Innovative Ideas

The inaugural Menu Innovation category was designed to spotlight operators who are introducing fresh concepts, diversifying their offerings, and pushing the boundaries while maintaining the beloved tradition of fish and chips.

This year’s finalists included Bristol’s Fisk & Frite and Knights Fish Restaurant from Glastonbury, Somerset. Both were commended for their inventive fusion and plant-based variations of the classic dish. However, it was Harrison’s Fish and Chip Co that emerged as the clear winner for its distinctive approach in introducing alternative fish species to its menu.

Embracing Change in a Competitive Market

In response to evolving market dynamics, the dedicated team at Harrison’s rolled out its ‘Cornish Specials’ menu, featuring nutritious and less common fish varieties like lemon sole, rock salmon, and Torbay sole—options that are rarely found in Oxford. This forward-thinking strategy has resonated with customers, who have eagerly embraced the added flavors and choices.

Celebrating Tradition with Innovation

Ryan Harrison, co-owner of Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co, expressed pride in this significant achievement, stating that the specials menu has become increasingly popular, often selling out by the evening. He received the award trophy from Stephen Mangan, the event’s emcee, who is also a well-known TV presenter and actor.

Ryan’s Reflection on the Award

“Winning the Menu Innovation Award is a testament to our creativity and our commitment to evolving while honoring the heritage of great fish and chips,” Ryan remarked. “This accolade underscores our strong connections with local fishermen and our emphasis on offering a diverse selection of freshly caught Cornish fish. We are grateful to the judges for their recognition and valuable feedback, and most importantly, we thank our wonderful team and loyal customers for their enthusiasm in exploring sustainable seafood options.”

Industry Recognition and Future Opportunities

The award category was sponsored by the National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), which oversees this official competition in the UK. The NFFF President, Andrew Crook, lauded Harrison’s for its innovative yet responsible approach to menu creation.

“The Menu Innovation Award celebrates those who are breaking new ground in a responsible, customer-first way,” Crook stated. “Harrison’s Fish & Chip Co has exemplified creativity while upholding the high standards that distinguish the best from the rest.”

Exclusive Learning Opportunities

Winners from the awards, including Harrison’s, have been invited to a unique study tour in Norway. Hosted aboard the long-liner vessel Geir, this trip aims to showcase how Norwegian seafood is sustainably sourced, providing invaluable insights into the science-led fisheries model that emphasizes origin, provenance, and sustainability.

Learn More

For further information about the National Fish & Chip Awards, please visit: www.nfff.co.uk/awards.

Image: NFFF