Paul Williams, chief executive of award organiser Seafish, said this year’s competition was ‘fierce’, but Poppies stood out from the competition for its ‘commitment and determination’ throughout the awards process.
Poppies owner Pat ‘Pop’ Newland, who has been serving fish and chips in the East End for over 50 years, said winning the award was a ‘huge honour’.
“At Poppies we put so much in to the entire experience, from our fish of the finest quality which is prepared on the premises by our onsite fishmonger, to our friendly ‘Poppettes’ waitresses dressed in wartime ‘land girl’ outfits and vintage-style décor,” he said.
“It is important that our customers leave happy, full and eager to repeat the experience.”
Outstanding standards
Other award-winners include Quayside in Whitby, which took home the prize for Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop of the Year, The Cod’s Scallops in Nottingham, which won the Best Newcomer award and Richardson’s Fish Bar in Fleetwood, Lancashire, which netted the Good Catch award.
“Year on year, the outstanding standards set by entrants across all the award categories, continues to impress,” said Newland.
“Their unwavering commitment to the industry and the efforts made towards responsible sourcing and maintaining standards are vital in ensuring future generations can enjoy the UK’s favourite dish.”